The Employment Development Department (EDD) in California has transitioned to a new debit card provider. If you are looking to log in to your Bank of America EDD debit card account, please be aware of important changes that have been implemented as of February 15, 2024. This article provides updated information on accessing and managing your EDD benefit payments.
Transition from Bank of America to Money Network for EDD Debit Cards
As of February 15, 2024, the EDD no longer issues benefit payments to Bank of America debit cards. This change means that any unemployment, disability, or paid family leave benefits you receive from the California EDD will now be issued on a Money Network prepaid debit card.
If you still possess a Bank of America debit card that previously received EDD benefits, it’s crucial to understand that this card is no longer active for receiving new payments. To access any remaining funds on your Bank of America card, you must contact Bank of America directly at 1-866-692-9374 to request a check for the balance.
For visual confirmation and further details about this transition, you can watch the official EDD announcement: The EDD is Transitioning to New Debit Cards on YouTube.
Introducing the Money Network Prepaid Debit Card
The Money Network prepaid debit card is now the official method for receiving EDD benefit payments. This new card offers a convenient and efficient way to access your funds without requiring a personal bank account or undergoing a credit check.
Alt: Woman smiles while checking her Money Network EDD debit card balance on her phone, highlighting convenient access to funds.
With the Money Network card, you can:
- Withdraw Cash: Access cash at ATMs, banks, and participating retail locations offering cash-back services.
- Transfer Funds: Easily transfer your funds to your personal bank account at no additional cost.
- Enjoy Fraud Protection: Benefit from a Zero Liability Policy, protecting you from unauthorized transactions.
Alt: Couple smiling and working on laptops in their kitchen, symbolizing easy funds transfer from Money Network EDD card to personal bank account.
Activating and Managing Your Money Network EDD Debit Card
Activating Your Card
To begin using your Money Network debit card, activation is required. You have two convenient options:
- Phone Activation: Call the dedicated activation line at 1-800-684-7051. Follow the prompts to activate your card and set your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
- Mobile App Activation: Download the Money Network Mobile App, available on both iOS and Android platforms. The app provides a user-friendly interface for activating your card and managing your account. You can find the download link on the Money Network EDD website.
Using Your Card
Once activated, your Money Network card functions like any standard debit card. You can use it for a wide range of transactions, including:
- Purchasing groceries and everyday essentials.
- Paying bills online or in person.
- Obtaining cash back at point-of-sale terminals.
Managing Your Card and Account
Effectively managing your Money Network EDD debit card is simple through online and mobile platforms:
- Online Account Access: Log in to your Money Network account through the website: Money Network Login. This portal allows you to check your balance, review transaction history, lock your card if misplaced, and initiate fund transfers.
- Money Network Mobile App: The mobile app mirrors the online portal’s functionalities, offering the convenience of managing your card on the go. Download the app from the Money Network EDD website.
Transferring funds from your Money Network card to your personal bank account is a straightforward process, typically taking two to three business days for the transaction to complete.
How to Select Debit Card for EDD Payments
To ensure your EDD benefits are paid to your debit card, you must select this option within your myEDD account. The process varies slightly depending on whether you are receiving Unemployment Insurance or Disability Insurance/Paid Family Leave benefits.
For Unemployment Benefits:
- Log in to myEDD: Access your myEDD account at myEDD Login and navigate to UI Online.
- Manage Payment Option: Select Register or Manage followed by Profile.
- Update Payment Method: Locate Benefit Payment Option and choose Update Your Payment Option.
- Select Debit Card: Choose Debit Card and click Save to confirm your selection.
Note: Payment option updates in UI Online are available daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For Disability and Paid Family Leave Benefits:
- Log in to myEDD: Access your myEDD account at myEDD Login and navigate to SDI Online.
- Edit Payment Option: Select Profile and then locate Benefit Payment Option. Click on Edit Payment Option.
- Choose Debit Card: Select Debit Card and then Save to finalize your choice.
Note: Similar to UI Online, payment option updates in SDI Online are available between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily.
Payment Timelines and Potential Delays
Typically, your first EDD payment will arrive within 7-10 days after you become eligible for benefits. For subsequent payments, once you certify your continued eligibility, funds are generally available within 2 days.
Important: Be aware that holidays and weekends can affect payment processing times, potentially delaying payments until the next business day.
Estimated Payment Schedule Examples:
| Holiday | Day You Certify | First-time payment | Ongoing Payments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2024) | Sunday, December 22, 2024 | By Tuesday, January 7, 2025 | By Tuesday, December 24, 2024 |
| New Year’s Day (Jan 1, 2025) | Sunday, December 29, 2024 | By Monday, January 13, 2025 | By Tuesday, December 31, 2024 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan 20, 2025) | Sunday, January 19, 2025 | By Monday, February 3, 2025 | By Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
If your myEDD account indicates that a payment has been processed but you do not see it on your Money Network debit card, immediately contact Money Network customer service at 1-800-684-7051 for assistance.
Reporting Lost or Stolen Cards
If you misplace your Money Network debit card, the first step is to lock it to prevent unauthorized use. You can easily lock your card by logging into your online account or through the Money Network Mobile App.
If your card is permanently lost or stolen, report it immediately by calling 1-800-684-7051 (TTY: 1-800-684-7053). For more detailed instructions, visit Lost or Stolen Cards.
Money Network Customer Support
For any questions or assistance related to your Money Network EDD debit card, Money Network provides 24/7 customer service. You can reach a representative by calling:
- Within the U.S.: 1-800-684-7051
- Outside the U.S.: 1-531-262-5282
- TTY: 1-800-684-7053
Important Note: Money Network customer service can only assist with debit card related inquiries. They cannot answer questions about your EDD claim or program eligibility.
Debit Card Fees and Disclosures
It is important to be aware of any applicable fees associated with your Money Network EDD debit card. Detailed information regarding fees is included with your card upon receipt and is also available online: Debit Card Fees. For comprehensive terms and conditions, refer to the Cardholder Agreement (PDF).
Frequently Asked Questions
For further clarification and answers to common questions, please visit the EDD’s Benefit Payment Options FAQs. This resource provides additional insights into managing your EDD benefit payments.
