Paper checks vs Money Network cards for EDD payments - true delivery times?

Go with paper checks 100%! I've been getting them for my UI benefits since January 2025 and they almost always arrive within 3-5 business days after certification, despite what the EDD says. The Money Network cards have all kinds of hidden fees and people struggle getting support when something goes wrong. My neighbor had his card frozen for 'suspicious activity' when he tried to withdraw his full balance at once, and it took him 3 weeks to get it sorted out.

paper checks r def better!!! my money network card got stolen from my mail last year an it was a NIGHTMARE gettin a replacement. EDD kept telling me to call money network, money network kept sending me back to EDD, took like a month to get my $$$ an i nearly got evicted. paper checks arrive pretty quick 4 me usually, like 4-5 days max

Anyone else notice that EDD payments seem to be processing faster lately? I certified Sunday night and got my paper check Wednesday. Maybe they've improved their systems?

I've had BOTH payment methods and here's my honest breakdown: Paper Checks: ✓ Usually arrive within 3-5 days (rarely the full 7-10) ✓ No hidden fees ✓ Can deposit via mobile app ✗ Risk of mail theft ✗ Have to wait for mail delivery ✗ Replacement takes forever if lost Money Network: ✓ Funds available immediately after payment posts ✓ Can transfer to bank account ✓ ATM access (though limited free withdrawals) ✗ Customer service is TERRIBLE ✗ Random holds and freezes ✗ App frequently has technical issues ✗ Some merchants reject these cards I personally switched back to paper checks after my Money Network card got frozen for 3 weeks when I tried to transfer the full balance to my checking account. They claimed it was "suspicious activity" 🙄

If you're having trouble reaching EDD to ask about payment options or check on your payment status, I highly recommend trying Claimyr. I was trying for WEEKS to get through to a rep to resolve issues with my Money Network card, and Claimyr got me connected to an actual EDD person in less than 20 minutes. They have a service that navigates the phone system for you and calls you back when they get a rep on the line. Saved me hours of frustration! Their demo video explains it better than I can: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km - check out their website at claimyr.com

To address the original question with accurate information: EDD's official timeline for paper checks is indeed 7-10 business days, but internal processing improvements implemented in Q1 2025 have shortened actual delivery times. Most claimants now receive paper checks 3-5 business days after certification is processed (which typically happens within 24 hours of submitting unless there are pending eligibility issues). Regarding Money Network cards: The initial card takes 7-10 business days to arrive, but subsequent payments are loaded immediately when processed. The main issues reported with these cards involve: 1. Fraud protection algorithms being overly sensitive 2. Limited customer service availability 3. ATM withdrawal limits and potential fees 4. Technical issues affecting the Money Network mobile app Both payment methods work well for many claimants - your best choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

Unfortunately, EDD doesn't provide tracking for paper checks. Once your UI Online account shows "paid" status, the check is typically mailed within 1-2 business days. If you haven't received your check within 10 business days after the payment shows as "paid" in your account, you should contact EDD to inquire about a replacement. One important note: If you recently changed your address, checks cannot be forwarded by USPS and will be returned to EDD. In that case, you would need to update your address through UI Online and request a replacement check.

I know this is slightly off-topic but has anyone else noticed that EDD seems to be doing a lot more eligibility interviews lately? I just got a notice for one even though I've been on claim for 4 months with no issues. Wonder if this is related to the payment method stuff somehow?

Since we're discussing EDD payment options, it's worth mentioning that returning to direct deposit might be a safer option than both paper checks and Money Network cards if your banking situation stabilizes. Direct deposit payments typically post within 1-2 business days after certification processes, making it the fastest method overall. You can update your payment preference at any time through your UI Online account. If you're concerned about security with direct deposit, consider opening a separate account specifically for EDD benefits that you transfer funds out of immediately. This provides both the speed of direct deposit and protection from potential account compromise.