I totally get the frustration! I've been dealing with the same issue for my tax refund. One thing that helped me was checking the "Where's My Refund?" tool on the FTB website first - sometimes that has more up-to-date info than what the phone reps can see. Also, try calling the general FTB number (1-800-852-5711) instead of EDD if it's about tax refunds specifically. The wait times can still be crazy, but I've had better luck getting through there. Hang in there! 💪

Wait, are we talking about EDD (Employment Development Department) or FTB (Franchise Tax Board) here? I'm seeing some confusion in the comments. If you're checking on a tax refund, that would be FTB, not EDD. EDD handles unemployment benefits. For FTB tax refunds, definitely use the "Where's My Refund?" tool on ftb.ca.gov first - it's updated more frequently than what phone reps can see. If you still need to call, try 1-800-852-5711 early morning (like 7-8 AM). I've found Tuesday-Thursday tend to have shorter wait times than Mondays or Fridays. Hope this helps clear things up! 🤞

Pro tip: keep a log of every interaction. Date, time, who you talked to, what they said. It'll help if you need to escalate later.

Another thing that helped me - if you're calling, try calling during their lunch hours (like 12-2pm). Sounds counterintuitive but sometimes there's less call volume then. Also, don't hang up if you get the "we're experiencing high call volumes" message - that's just their standard greeting, not necessarily a sign you won't get through. Persistence really is key here!

Quick question - has anyone received any letters or notices from FTB about their refund? I'm wondering if I should be on the lookout for anything in the mail.

I'm in the exact same situation! Filed my return over 6 weeks ago and still stuck on "processing" status. I've been calling every day for the past week and either get disconnected after 2+ hours on hold or the system just hangs up on me. It's beyond frustrating. Thanks for starting this thread - at least I know I'm not alone in this mess! 😤

Pro tip: If you're expecting a big refund, adjust your withholdings so you get more money throughout the year instead of waiting for a refund. It's basically an interest-free loan to the government otherwise!

I'm in the same boat as you, Bethany! Still waiting on my refund and checking the mail obsessively every day 😅 The "Where's My Refund?" tool on the FTB website has been showing "processing" for weeks now. Starting to wonder if I should expect one of those letters asking for more documentation like KingKongZilla mentioned. Thanks for starting this thread - it's reassuring to know I'm not alone in the waiting game!

Have you tried reaching out on social media? Sometimes tweeting at them can get a response.

I'm going through something similar right now with my 2021 return! It's so frustrating when you're stuck in limbo like this. One thing that helped me was creating a timeline of everything I've sent and when, then calling with all those details ready. Also, try asking specifically for a "case number" or "inquiry number" when you do get through - it helps them track your situation better. Don't lose hope, you'll get your refund eventually! 💪