What's the EDD automated phone number for certifying UI benefits?

The EDD Tele-Cert phone number is 1-866-333-4606. You'll need your Social Security Number, 4-digit PIN, and yes, your Customer Account Number is helpful to have ready. The automated system will walk you through the certification questions. Make sure you call during their operating hours 6AM-10PM.

The number is def 1-866-333-4606 but honestly the tele-cert is super annoying with all the automated prompts. so slow. hope ur internet comes back soon lol

I think u can also do it by text message now? I saw something about that on the EDD website but never tried it myself. Might be worth looking into if the phone system is giving u trouble.

If you're having trouble getting through on the certification line, I'd recommend using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They helped me get through to an actual EDD agent when I had issues with the automated system. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km. Sometimes the certification line can be overwhelmed too, and this helped me avoid the frustration.

Just an additional tip: When using the Tele-Cert system (1-866-333-4606), have a pen and paper ready to write down the confirmation number they give you at the end. That's your proof that you completed the certification in case anything goes wrong. Also, if you have any earnings to report, have those amounts calculated before you call - the system times out if you take too long between responses.

Here's a weird thing that happened to me once - I called to certify and the system kept hanging up on me at the EXACT same question every single time! It was that question about looking for work. So frustrating!!!! I ended up having to wait until monday morning to talk to a real person because it was the weekend. Almost missed my payment window!!

btw if u have to call a bunch of times, use *67 before the number. for some reason edd blocks u if u call too many times from same number lol

I should also mention: make sure you're answering the work search questions correctly. The phone system doesn't allow you to explain your work search activities like the online system does. If you're required to look for work, you need to answer "Yes" to that question or you might get disqualified. EDD has been more strict about work search requirements in 2025.

Just wanted to add that if you're calling during peak hours (like Sunday evenings when everyone is trying to certify), the system can be really slow or even busy. I've found that calling early in the morning around 6-7 AM or later in the evening around 8-9 PM tends to work better. Also, make sure you have a stable phone connection - if the call drops during certification, you'll have to start over completely. Good luck getting through!