One more thing to note - if this is your first benefit payment ever, EDD might issue it on their Money Network debit card instead of direct deposit, even if you requested direct deposit. This is a security measure they sometimes implement. You might want to watch your mail for the card. Subsequent payments would then follow your direct deposit preference. If that's the case, you can transfer funds from the card to your bank once you receive it.

The Money Network card typically takes 7-10 business days to arrive by mail after your first payment is processed. If your online status changes from 'pending' to 'paid' but you don't see a direct deposit, this is likely what happened. Once you get the card, you can set up transfers to your bank account or continue using the card (it works like a regular debit card). For future payments, the direct deposit should work as expected. If your status doesn't change from 'pending' to 'paid' within the next few days, that's when you should try contacting EDD directly.

I went through this exact situation last year. EDD took my entire state refund ($1,800) but surprisingly left my federal refund alone. I was also on a payment plan and never missed a payment, but they still intercepted the state portion. The thing that really helped me was calling EDD's Collections department directly (not the regular UI number) at 1-800-300-5616. I explained my financial hardship and they were able to set up a temporary suspension of collections for 90 days while I got back on my feet. During that time, I also applied for the overpayment waiver that someone mentioned above. One tip: if you do lose your refund to offset, make sure to get documentation showing the payment was applied to your debt. Sometimes there are processing delays and your account doesn't get updated right away, which can cause confusion about your remaining balance. Good luck with everything - I know how stressful this whole situation is!

I'm in a similar boat right now - owing EDD about $4,200 from 2022 and expecting a $1,900 refund that I desperately need for medical bills. Reading through everyone's experiences here is both helpful and terrifying! From what I'm gathering, it seems like whether they take your refund depends on several factors: fraud vs non-fraud classification, how long you've been on a payment plan, and sometimes just luck of the draw. The fact that some people got to keep their federal refunds while losing state ones gives me a sliver of hope. I'm definitely going to look into that overpayment waiver form (DE 1446W) and try calling the collections number that @Keisha Williams shared. Has anyone had success getting EDD to agree NOT to intercept your refund if you can prove severe financial hardship? Like if losing the refund would mean not being able to pay rent or buy medication? Also wondering if filing taxes later in the year (closer to the deadline) makes any difference in terms of giving you more time to resolve things with EDD first?

Have you tried reaching out on social media? Sometimes tweeting at them or messaging on Facebook can get a response. Worth a shot!

I'm in a similar situation - submitted my claim about 2.5 weeks ago and radio silence since then. It's so stressful not knowing what's happening! I've been checking the online portal daily but the status hasn't changed at all. Definitely going to try some of these suggestions, especially the early morning calling tip. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - at least I know I'm not alone in this mess!

That's awesome to hear! Having the school help with the CTB application makes such a huge difference. I wish more training providers were that proactive about helping students navigate the EDD process. Your son is really lucky to have found a program that's both EDD-approved AND supportive with the paperwork. The trucking industry needs good drivers, and it sounds like he's setting himself up for success the right way. Keep us posted on how the training goes!

This is such a helpful thread! As someone who's been through the EDD system myself, I can't stress enough how important it is to get everything documented properly upfront. Your son is so smart to ask these questions before starting the program. One thing I'd add that I learned the hard way - when he does his bi-weekly certifications, make sure he's super specific about reporting the training stipend. Don't just put "yes" to working - actually enter the exact hours and dollar amount. EDD's system can flag inconsistencies if the reporting isn't precise. Also, even with CTB approval, keep copies of all his certification submissions. I had an issue months later where EDD questioned some of my earlier certifications, and having those records saved me from a major headache. Sounds like he's found a great school that actually knows how to work with EDD - that's honestly half the battle right there!

To all those having trouble reaching a human at California Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/Ize0EkN4HDI

I'm dealing with a similar situation where EDD isn't considering all my employment history when calculating benefits. From what I've learned, you should definitely push to speak with a Tier 2 representative as Katie mentioned. They have more authority to make corrections to your claim. Make sure you have all your W-2s and pay stubs from both jobs ready when you call. Sometimes it takes multiple calls and escalations, but don't give up - you're entitled to have ALL your qualifying wages included in the calculation, not just the most recent part-time job. Document everything and keep records of your calls. Good luck!