Home » Tricks to Get Through to California Unemployment

Tricks to Get Through to California Unemployment

If you have a reason to contact California's Unemployment offices, you probably know this is no simple task.
Fortunately, there are other lesser known, and LESS BUSY phone lines available to anyone that knows them and knows how to use them.

This site will walk you through everything you need to know to get through to EDD today!

Latest Trick to Get Through to EDD

2/12/2013

Thank you to all who have left comments regarding your experience trying to get through to California EDD. The comments section has clearly proven that Anna's method for getting through is also an effective way to get a live person. As a result, I think it deserves its own post on this website.

Here's the trick that has worked for many...

HERE'S WHAT WORKS EVERY TIME: hit 5 (as if you're an employer), then hit 1 when prompted, then hit 1 again when prompted, then hit 0 (to speak to a live person) - they will tell your wait time and then a nice person comes on - LIVE!!! This works better than anything out there - and I've tried them all!!!

Thanks to Anna for providing this effective trick!

Was Anna's trick effective in getting you through to California EDD?

*Poll added to post on May 28, 2013.

309 Comments

Trista

02/13/2013 8:50am

Thank you, Thank you, THANK YOU for the tip!! After DAYS of calling and listening to recordings just to be told "due to the volume of callers, we are unable to assist you at this time, please try back later", I FINALLY was able to get through and talk to a real person! What a relief. I am truly grateful for the post.

KARRIE

03/06/2013 12:01pm

OMG IT WORKED! GOT THRU 1ST TRY! THANKYOU!

Frances Lizardo

04/29/2013 11:15am

HELP !HELP!! I can't get still can't get through to the unemployment ofjce

Dana

09/20/2013 11:39am

After 3 1/2 hours of trying to get through, I tried this trick. It did not work for me, BUT when I combined Anna and Allisa's tricks, I finally got through. After listening to the lengthy recording, I QUICKLY dialed 5-1-1-0 and after listening to their terrible music for about 8 minutes, I actually got to speak to a real live person. Thank you so much!

KIM

09/24/2013 9:28am

Trying this right now when they transfer me it say due to number of callers already waiting i have to try later,do i keep trying or move to another technique? HEEELLPPP

the one

04/11/2013 9:37am

thank yu soooo much this totally worked

Vena

04/12/2013 10:50am

This worked I got thru to ms. Joyce and she helped me while her employer only line was not busy she was professional and very helpful and fixed my error on claim form as well as sent ok to release my money to my card! I never would have thought to do this w/o ur comment thanks!!

Vera

05/08/2013 1:02pm

Dear Frances,
Dial 1-800-300-5616.
When they start promting to press 1,2, ..., press 5 (like employer), then pres "1", and again "1", and right after that press "0".
They will tell you your waiting time, probably 1 min., and you'll get a LIVE person to answer your question.
Good Luck!
I cannot thank enough the one who invented this trick!
It is the MOST HELPFUL thing I've ever found!

charrish

09/03/2013 10:57am

yes, yes yes. this works. I waited 1 full minute and got a live body on the other line!! And they answered all my questions. On the phone total maybe 5 minutes...

Matt link

05/01/2013 8:45am

Thank you so much!!!
A very helpful & nice guy named Matt assisted me.

Karen

08/05/2013 8:59am

Got through first try!!!! 1 minute wait

Jennifer

09/10/2013 8:57am

5-1-1-0.....works EVERY time!!!!!!!

Jessr

09/20/2013 9:15am

They must have caught on, I have tried since 8:00 this morning and the recording states that they have more calls then they van handle then hangs up. I have tried for three days. They sent me a questionnaire asking if I was still disabled I filled it out and sent them the Dr. note which stated I couldn't go back to work until this December yet the edd office stopped paying me.

rusty

05/13/2013 9:28am

doesnt work

stephanie

07/23/2013 3:54pm

Yes, this worked on my first try! My husband has been trying to get through for days. I took the advice and pressed 5 when prompted then 1, 1 ,and 0 for a live operator, and it took less tham a minute for a very nice person to answer and file my husbands claim. Thank you so much!!!

sparks

08/07/2013 8:53am

It worked for me! On the line right with them!

Jaclyn

05/20/2013 8:19am

This worked on the first try!! Was not even on hold for 5 seconds before I spoke to a very nice person. This will come in handy since the government had cut the phone rep hours. Better than calling the vitenmesse line.

Holley

05/21/2013 11:09am

Wow!!!!!! Yes it worked!! I had been calling and like many other say "due to the high volume of calls, they can't take my call." Now they are cutting back their hours!! So frustrating..I am so glad I decided to look this up! I got a rep on the line and rectified my problem! (hopefully) Not going to get my hopes up too much..because we all are familiar with they way edd works. Thanks!!!! What a relief.

Kathy

05/29/2013 9:35am

Wow this worked first time and the gal was so nice. Thank you

Connie

06/11/2013 10:56am

I got through in less than one minute.

Marlee

07/17/2013 10:10am

THANK YOU. This worked immediately. I guess you're not supposed to use commas in your address filing. They sent my stuff to the wrong address... fucking EDD.

edd

12/17/2014 10:52am

EDD and Governor Moonbeam can lick the shit off my giant shaft

Scottie link

07/17/2013 12:48pm

Holy Cow!!! it really worked!!! Thank You Anna!!!

Norma

07/22/2013 9:38am

I am glad it worked for you, Trista! I just tried it this morning, 7/22/13 and it does not give you the option to press 0 to speak with an operator. However I decided to dial the Spanish line and after you follow the prompts it gives you the option to press 0 to speak with a live person, and I got thru to a LIVE PERSON!!!! I guess they are on to this already, but they haven't updated the Spanish line to block the 0 option yet as they are slow as molasses! LOL

Elizabeth

11/22/2013 8:15am

what is the Spanish line number? I speak Spanish so it perfect anyways!!

cate

08/07/2013 10:43am

This worked perfect! Got through right away and the lady who answered sounded like she wanted to help and didn't hate her life. THANK YOU!

susan

08/26/2013 9:51am

TOTALLY works!! Just do what is prompted 5, 1, 1, 0 took less than a minute.

John

10/02/2013 11:16am

Thank you for the operator number. It took about an hour with two phones calling back to back, and finally got the operator, who then transferred me to the office who directly sends out my payment. Come to find out, eventhough online it showed I submitted my claim, their computer system shows that I did not submit a claim. So, claims are also getting lost, also.

Jess

10/04/2013 12:29pm

John - what number did you use? I tried for more than 2 hours today and was never able to get anywhere. Thanks!

Valerie

10/17/2013 6:46pm

John:
Do you mean newly filed claims submitted online with APPLY EU are getting lost as well as continued claim forms filed online? I filed a brand new claim using the APPLY EU system online Oct 1 and no response as in no Notice of Award Letter or EDD Brochure, let alone a claim form. What number did you use? I will try to call tomorrow.

Gay

10/23/2013 11:57am

10/22/2013 This did not work for me. "We are currently receiving more calls than we can answer."

STAR

01/21/2014 2:05pm

WHAT IS YOUR TRIK FOR ME DID NOT WORK

04/30/2014 8:32am

OH MY GOD!!!!! IT REALLY WORKS!!! I have been trying for over a week to get a real person on the phone. I even called at exactly 8am and thew lines were STILL to busy! I can not say thank you enough for that trick. I will worship you as a Goddess.

Angela

06/30/2014 10:57am

Awesome! Thx for the tip! It works, im on hold right now.

Barbara

07/11/2014 8:30am

Anna's method worked for me. I still needed to be tenacious to get through where I needed to be - but only ordinarily tenacious - not impossible tenacious as EDD regularly requires. I was fearful that the people at the end of the business line would be rude and unhelpful as I was calling the wrong line but they were unfailingly polite and helpful. Why do we as taxpayers accept such horrendous service?

anon

02/23/2015 10:21am

900# worked perfectly.. No waiting

Charisse

02/13/2013 9:25am

Thank you so much!!!! Very cool of you!!!

Ted

02/13/2013 10:27am

AWESOME!!!! I just did it. It took a few tries (3 or 4 maybe) but once it worked it was less than one minute wait time and the lady was very nice. Solved my problem in less than 5 minutes. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!

02/15/2013 10:34am

call the state employee line, they actually answer the phone for their own

A.E.G.

02/15/2013 3:03pm

THANK GOD!
Yes after weeks and weeks of calling and trying different alternate number sequences, this way was the one that got me to a rep and actually spoke with a person who explained me everything and assisted me. THANK YOU!

02/15/2013 4:16pm

worked perfect. Spoke to a representative within 1 min. She was helpful and transfered me to the right dept. Glad I found this as I would of not been paid if I hadn't spoken to someone "live." They admitted to be understaffed & backlogged.

Julie

02/15/2013 4:55pm

What number do you call for this method to work? I have been calling (800) 547-2058 and I still get the mssg that the maximum number of callers has been reached. Thanks for any help!!

Trista

02/15/2013 8:12pm

From what my paperwork says you have been calling the Vietnamese line...the # I used is 800-300-5616 ..that's the only number I was able to find that said English.... although I did think about calling that one myself after days of frustration. Hope it works for you. Good luck!

Sarah

02/16/2013 4:30pm

What number should we call to use this method? Been calling 18003005616 but it always says call later, pressing 5 doesn't do anything. Thanks!

Trista

02/16/2013 5:16pm

That's the # I used but you my have to call back a few times in a row to get the right recording. They have two that run. I called back immediately after getting the one you were referring to. There is one recording that goes through some info about legistalture that was just passed. That's the one you want. You have to listen through that whole message until it gives you options. It says if you're an employer, press 5. That's what got me through after numerous days and tries. Then when prompted I selected 1, 1, 0 and it said my wait time was 1 minute. I was able to actually talk to a person. Hope it helps. Good luck!

Erik

09/13/2013 9:00am

Not working. Recording coming on saying we are receiving more calls than we can answer. Then a long message and goodbye. Any other ideas.

Ahna

02/19/2013 12:21pm

Thank you SO very much for submitting this info!! After 6 weeks of trying to get though, I was finally able to speak to a rep!! Thank you, thank you, thank you. :)

Brittney

02/20/2013 9:54am

THANK YOU! POSING AS AN EMPLOYER WORKED AFTER A FEW TIMES! MY WAIT TIME WAS UNDER 2 MINUTES!

kim

02/21/2013 9:31am

This was so helpful, it worked and the lady was so sweet..I got the info I was hoping and praying for!! Thank you!!

nichole

02/21/2013 2:06pm

THANK YOU! we filed in dec 2012 and it is feb 2013 and still can not get through nor have we heard about our claim! they need to be seriously hiring right now! thanks for the post b/c of it my husband is actually talking to someone right now!! fyi if you e-mail them it takes 2weeks for them to reply and it's just a " oh we will process your claim asap" umm yeah and that was another month ago!

Jakk

03/01/2013 12:06pm

Same here. I was fired on my birthday in dec 2012, and filed that day... I never got my claim forms, and been calling edd for.months. I tried this today, got thru immediately and was able to reopen my case. It was closed due to it not having any correspondence..... Cause i gouldnt get thru! Finally progress is made!

Suse

02/21/2013 3:46pm

I was literally hitting "redial" for seven hours straight when I found this! It worked instantly. THANKYOUTHANKYOUTHANKYOU!!!!!!!

travis

02/22/2013 9:19am

Worked like a charm...thanks Anna!!!

Kenyetta

02/22/2013 3:48pm

Thanks so much!! It worked, instead of sitting on the phone for hours, it worked on the first try. So grateful!

Jamie

02/25/2013 8:36am

That ish worked like a charm.....I do admit I tried it 3 times before it actually worked.. there are 2 different messages I Listen to the message hit 5, 1, 1 0..and next thing u know..ur wait time is 1minute....im like OMG...and a guy pick up fast ...my issues were solved in less than 10mins..
Call EDD....check.... im done..thought that was gonna be an all day task....

Alicia J

02/25/2013 12:27pm

AWESOME!!! I can't tell you how grateful I am!

Renee

02/25/2013 12:56pm

This worked...thank you so much. I had tried 47 times to get through the "right" way this morning, then saw this. Got through the first try with a hold time of under one minute. The gentleman that answered was kind and helpful.

Nicole

02/25/2013 4:46pm

THANK YOU!!!! I could NEVER get through to EDD last time I was on unemployment and now had a question regarding my training benefits and was having the same issue 8 months later! this tip worked like a charm!! I tried several times today using the regular options, but FINALLY got through using 5-1-1-0 and got through THE FIRST TIME WITH 1 MINUTE WAITING!!! It might be "wrong" to use the employer line, but it's wrong in my opinion to keep hanging up on callers. If I wanted to wait on hold for 45 minutes, give me that option dangit, don't hang up on me! I will use this option from now on!

nick

05/17/2013 8:29am

holy crap this worked thank u thank u so much

Mike

02/26/2013 12:22pm

Worked like a charm...

Elena

02/26/2013 2:40pm

Wow! This worked!! I'm simply amazed and want to thank you SO much!

Trisha

02/27/2013 8:44am

Thank you thank you thank you!!! This worked perfectly and had no wait time what so ever after calling the regular line 50 times a day for the last week whew!!

Teresa

02/27/2013 9:07am

I just got straight thru and this woman is an angel. is fixing the problem as I write and has givin me some great ideas and tips and explained somethings I didnt know about. Also discoverd that if you register for web cert you can log online and actually see were your claim stands. THANK YOU. Will pass this on to the many people I know are going thru this

Jenelle

02/28/2013 1:58pm

Thank you so so so so much! Have been calling for weeks and finally came across this post and got through immediately!

Skyler Young link

03/04/2013 10:50am

I used this method this morning at 8:01am got right through 1 minute wait time was more like 10 seconds. I was calling to see what i needed to do because my claim expired. The rep filled out all the info for me and processed my new claim for me, my call lasted 35 minutes. This is the easiest and best way to get through. I highly recommend..

Finally Got Thru!!!!

03/04/2013 4:02pm

Wow, thanks so much for this trick! I got thru after a few minutes after repeated attempts at getting thru on the English line an then the Vietnamese line.

Thanks for sharing!!!

Dave

03/05/2013 4:50pm

Thank you. I spent 2 days trying to get through. Used the trick and was in in under 3 minutes on the first try.

Jane

03/06/2013 10:22am

Thank you so much !!!!!! Brilliant !!!!!!!

ungoy

03/12/2013 3:06pm

It works. After the prompt a rep answered almost immediately.

My case may be a case of changed addresses. My mailing address was different than my residence (just moved so I entered my prior address not to confuse information) and my mailing address may have been TOO LONG. The VERY friendly rep told me things were mailed out over a week ago so we spent about 10mins trying to find the best way to abbreviate my address. No questions regarding why I was on the employer line; just took my call as if it were normal even when I explained I couldn't get thru by the usual means.

So also check your address. She told me the system allows so many characters. She could have been fibbing... I mean I told her I didn't have internet access... just FYI. Good luck.

aroe831

03/12/2013 3:34pm

This does indeed work. Will never sit through those ridiculous menus again to be told it's too busy.

Cesar

03/13/2013 2:19pm

OMG Praise the Lord! This really worked! Thank you so much! One minute later I was actually speaking to a live person.

Shelly

03/13/2013 3:39pm

Yippeee!!!! It worked!!!!!

Chadster link

03/18/2013 7:59pm

Thanks Bro!!!!! That's the shiznitz

Allison

03/20/2013 3:12pm

This totally worked. I called SO many times and spent 5 minutes through the messages each time only to be politely told by the generic message guy that they were too busy and promptly hung up on. I got disconnected several times when they tried to transfer me once I finally did get a live person and was almost fed up enough to stop calling back. Fortunately, I finally got an excellent rep named David on the line. He helped me through the whole process even going so far as to not put me on hold so I wouldn't get disconnected again. Thanks so much for this info!

PS They totally know that people "cheat" to get through to someone live because my rep asked if I was "one of those people". And apparently it isn't a big deal. So, if you had to smarts to look this up and follow through with it, GO YOU! :-)

patricia

03/21/2013 10:20am

This worked. Ive been trying to call for 4 months. Finally got through.

sandy

03/21/2013 7:29pm

this works wooow i thought it wouldnt i got straight through i thought the lady was gonna say this line is for employers only but she was nice and helped me...got through on the first try>;)))))

TAMMY PATTERSON

03/25/2013 8:18am

OMG! it worked, unbelievable. I spent 25 days trying to get thru!
THANK YOU!

jaime s.

03/28/2013 8:30am

Thank you! I really lucked out with this. After calling right at 8am and being disconnected 10x in a row, using the trick you listed put me through to someone in 1 minute. On top of that, he just happened to be the kindest EDD person I ever spoke with. I hope other people can replicate my experience.

04/02/2013 9:38am

Worked like a charm!

Dday

04/03/2013 10:40am

Awesome this totally worked god bless you!!

Jesse

05/10/2013 2:49pm

What worked to get through EDD?? Please do tell

Britt

04/04/2013 2:44pm

It worked!!!! Thank you thank you!

Dave u

04/05/2013 12:01pm

It worked first time!Good thinking Ann.., maybe if enough people try this options it'll shake them to be responsible and take calls and not just mislead people into believing that the call volume is too high to assist.. they just dont want to shell out the money. THATS B.S. ..thanks a again

Shawn

04/08/2013 3:30pm

I just wanted to say THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for the tip on getting through to a live person. You rock!

Peter

04/10/2013 8:27am

Holy Crap it totally worked.. That was awesome. I have been trying for 10 days. WOOOO HOOOOOO

04/11/2013 10:00am

It worked beautifully!!! You are awesome - thank you!!!

Adam

04/11/2013 10:32am

WOW! WORKED BEAUTIFULLY!!!

Lucia

04/12/2013 10:42am

OMG!!!!!!! Thank you sooo nuch. It worked like a charm.

Doug

04/12/2013 12:48pm

Didn't work for me. The 'lady' representative was rude and refused to provide any help other than to call back on the correct number and "be persistent". Like 10 times a day for 6 weeks is not persistent ...

Doug

04/12/2013 1:17pm

The third time it worked. I used her advice to "be persistent" - problem (finally) solved.

Rob

04/15/2013 8:27am

This worked. I needed to cancel my in-house eligibility appointment and was able to get through.

sam

04/15/2013 3:49pm

it works but the ady thst got on the phone this time was very rude ugh no need for that!

Shay

04/16/2013 11:45am

OMG thanks so much,.. first try and I was in ! You are appreciated !

mbl

04/16/2013 12:39pm

IT TOTALLY WORKS!!

Terry

04/17/2013 10:12am

YAY I got thru:) Tak yo u!!!

Nick

04/17/2013 11:44am

AWESOME! First try and got through! THANK YOU!!

Alyssa

04/17/2013 1:37pm

Used this tip on April 17, 2013. It worked the very first time but unfortunately due to a cell phone error I was disconnected. I called back immediately and I was told there were too many callers. I waited about 2 minutes and retried the tip. I got through within 2 minutes. The woman was very helpful and was able to take care of me. Thank you for posting this tip!

Henry

04/19/2013 9:57am

This was the only thing that worked. Thank you!

Lori

04/19/2013 2:33pm

I have tired calling the Vietnamese line didn't work tired this tip. First time call was answered in less than 10 SECONDS!!! Not even joking! Was on the phone for less than 2 minutes(easy question)! Thank you so much for posting this!!!!

Gus

04/19/2013 4:24pm

this totally worked. got a very lovely woman on the phone. After about two weeks of trying that other ridiculous number too. thanks!

Nikki

04/19/2013 4:35pm

You are a life saver! After days of calling over and over, waiting through 20 minutes of announcements each time and getting hung up on, I used your trick and got through on the first try!!! Thank you soooo much

Kim

04/23/2013 11:25am

This worked and fast! Thank you!

John

04/25/2013 10:06am

Worked great! I hit 1 for English, then 5 as an employer, then 1 again when prompted, 1 again when prompted, the 0 immediately. The lady asked if I was a claimant,took my info, answered my questions...and that was it! Ive tried for 2 weeks on the regular line to be told theres too many callers. Total time on the phone today 4 1/2 minutes!!!

Zaheed Ali

04/25/2013 10:14am

It does work!!!!!!! I have been trying all week and I finally got through and the lady was SOOOOOO helpful. Thanks for the tip!!!!!!!

mike

04/25/2013 11:19am

worked like a charm

John

04/25/2013 2:18pm

Worked well. I tried for weeks to get through for a question. Thanks.

Jon

04/26/2013 3:57pm

worked great just try back if they are rude this method will work, just be polite and they should be able to help resolve any questions you have...

Alicia

04/29/2013 10:01am

Its the end of April 2013 and I just tried it and it worked like a dream...better than trying the Vietnamese line! Thank-you for posting this!

Mimi

04/29/2013 2:09pm

This is so far, by far, the most helpful tip ever! Thank you1

Mimi

04/29/2013 2:15pm

(correcting typo ) Thank you " ! "

Kathryn

04/30/2013 9:43am

Genuis! Worked instantly. Thanks so much.

Tayler

05/01/2013 11:06am

This was the only trick that worked for me after trying multiple of the other ones! Thanks for the help!!!

Donna

05/01/2013 11:46am

Holy Cow! It worked!

Tony link

05/01/2013 12:18pm

I gave up and decided to take action by creating a petition to make it illegal to leave you on hold that long OR hang up on you.

Can't reach anyone while trying to contact a government agency? Did a robot hang up on you? Do you hate phone trees? Make them answer the phone or make them call you back: Criminalize the full automation of any government agency telephone line.

http://wh.gov/zaBf or

https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/criminalize-full-automation-any-government-agency-telephone-line/ysbVP7r5

Nicole

05/01/2013 12:45pm

Worked great! Thank you very much.

mackenzie

05/01/2013 2:45pm

so it worked... then the lady on the phone said she couldnt help me or couldnt transfer me to another department. I was calling to ask why i havent received payment in over a month. she said her department didnt deal with that and she couldnt help me.

Don Virgen

05/02/2013 3:17am

Shiit !! Worked! success with 5-1-1-0
The Vietnamese one did not work for me.
EDD need improve their telphone services after trying forever on numerous calls. Glad I found this post.

Don

05/02/2013 3:31am

Agree with Tony copy and paste link sign petition.
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/criminalize-full-automation-any-government-agency-telephone-line/ysbVP7r5

Deb

05/02/2013 4:15pm

FANTASTIC! Got thru and got my issue solved in 5 mins. NONE of the recordings would have helped so why they don't make it just a little bit easier to talk to a person is beyond me. Guess they laid off too many folks!!

Lisa

05/02/2013 5:13pm

This was absolutely great I talked to the best person they gave me all the info I need I could kiss whoever came up with this idea.

Therese

05/03/2013 11:48am

it works like a charm!

Liz

05/03/2013 1:35pm

I tried this and it worked but once I sat on hold for a minute or so was disconnected. Called back and too many people on hold and was disconnected. Am now on my 5th try and it's still saying the same thing. Guess they are busy. Not working at all for me. :-(

Robert link

05/06/2013 12:43pm

Worked great! The person I got was incredibly helpful, and total time invested less than 10 minutes! Thank you, thank you, thank you...

Erin

05/06/2013 1:59pm

I can't get through :-( so frustrating! On call#18

Vera

05/08/2013 12:57pm

Dial 1-800-300-5616.
When they start promting to press 1,2, ..., press 5 (like employer), then pres "1", and again "1", and right after that press "0".
They will tell you your waiting time, probably 1 min., and you'll get a LIVE person to answer your question.
Good Luck!
I cannot thank enough the one who invented this trick!
It is the MOST HELPFUL thing I've ever found!

cindy bidwell

12/03/2013 11:13am

Hi Vera, I keep trying this method and they keep telling me due to too many calls, try again later. Any suggestions? Thanks.

Jay

05/06/2013 2:02pm

OMG It worked, total time from initial call was only 5 min. MANY THANKS!

maria

05/07/2013 8:54am

IT WORKS!!

Maria

05/07/2013 8:55am

Thank you

Melissa link

05/07/2013 9:49am

Omg the 5-1-1-0 REALLY WORKED!! had been trying to get through for weeks and then saw this trick and my wait time was 1 MINUTE!!! THANK U THANK U!!

jamie

05/07/2013 9:54am

After a month if trying to contact them and hours of redialing every day I got through in five minutes!!!! Now I hope they didn't stop my claim!

La Reina

05/07/2013 10:43pm

Thank you!! If only I had known about this months ago. I've been trying to fix an issue through the e-mail communication and ended up screwing up the situation worse. Finally went to an office to try and call a rep and got the usual advice of hitting numbers as a claimant. I sat through it 5-6 times while being told volume was too high before Googling "how long to get through to EDD" on my iPhone. Your page came up on a Yelp forum thread and first time I got through. Almost felt sorry for the other people there dialing and redialing while I was talking with the rep and getting (finally) the answers I needed.

La Reina

05/21/2013 6:01pm

Thank you again! I had a follow up issue and thanks to how screwy it's been trying to communicate with EDD via e-mail, I was dreading another round of phone calls with the hours cut from 8a-12p. This time I called them from home and after 2 dropped calls was able to get through to a live person. Fingers crossed, but he was able to get several issues addressed and I should (knock wood) be okay. I definitely have learned that it's better trying this method first to talk with EDD versus the online form.

tony

05/08/2013 1:50pm

Totally worked for me after a few weeks of trying the other way and

Sabrina

05/10/2013 4:55pm

Worked the first try. Less than a minute wait. Thank you!

Natalie

05/13/2013 11:58am

This worked! I tried calling through other language and using random options, with nothing to show for it. I was trying to follow up on my claim, since EDD stopped responding by email. Finally got to talk to a live person, with only a 4 minute wait!

jackie perez

05/14/2013 10:41am

It worked thank God after so many attempts I got right through to someone

mino

05/15/2013 9:26am

It works! They must be getting wise to this practice because the women was a little annoyed about my using the employer's line. But after a brief lecture about that I got helped! Oh, I've very sorry I must have dialed this number by mistake. Thanks!

randy

05/15/2013 2:15pm

Another satisfied customer. Spent the whole day listeing to the we are busy call back later
got through in five minutes. Claim was taken care of

Bill

05/16/2013 12:57pm

Yes!! Thank you for this information! I was able to get through and was on hold for 5-10 minutes, and talked to Nicole once I did get through. She told me my payment had not yet been processed and she would take care of it and to expect payment in the next few days. I am feeling better now that I finally talked to a live person who was able to assist me. I will feel even more better once I get my payment.

Kristy

05/22/2013 10:18am

Worked the first time in seconds!!!! :-) :-) :-)

La Reina

05/22/2013 5:23pm

Damn I'm 3 for 3 this month! Another option for people to try, but I checked again today for the automated system to see if they had processed my money for latest claim (I have direct deposit via the Visa card). After sitting on the line and hearing that I had no active claim, the option came up to speak to a rep so I figured What the Hell and selected that option. And after a 3 minute wait, I got somebody who explained that my claim was being processed and would be deposited (knock wood). So checking for your claim and then selecting the option to talk to somebody can be another route, because they will ask for your SS#, name, & address and bring up your account.

Jay

05/28/2013 10:16am

My father told me that this would probably be an all day issue when I was unemployed back in 2002. I prepared myself for that misadventure and proceeded in calling nonstop from 8:00 A.M to i don't even know what time they wound up answering and providing me some assistance. Anyway, I really wish I knew this trick back then so I didn't have to waste time sittin on the phone all morning. THANK YOU FOR WHOMEVER POSTED THIS TRICK! Not wastin time with the EDD is a God send!

Jorge

05/29/2013 12:18pm

It worked!!!! 1st try too.

Crystal

06/03/2013 11:15am

It worked! OMG!!!!! The rep was also nice enough to share another trick with me. Call ANY of the other languages (except Spanish) phone #'s and just wait. Do not push any prompts. This will translate as a "rotary phone" and get you right through. Thanks for the help everyone!

Bradford

06/04/2013 8:45am

This was the best thing to do. I spoke with a wonderful person who actaully opened and processed my claim on the phone. The trick to get through is you have to call the main number several times until you get the prompt for english. If you don't get the press 1 for english prompt you have to keep calling. Once you are able to press 1 for english, a new voice comes on the line. It is a human voice, not the monotone recording we all hear everytime we call. Once the human sounding voice starts going through prompts, that is when you press 5 (like employer), then pres "1", and again "1", and right after that press "0"

Best of luck.

Allie

06/04/2013 9:25am

On the phone with EDD right now using the 5-1-1-0 trick!!!!! It works!!!! Very nice rep answered helped me then transferred me to the correct depart!!! Thank you and peace and blessings to you!!

nick

06/04/2013 10:26am

worked for me. I just had to call like 5 times. thanks

linus

06/05/2013 9:14am

WOW!..day 2 of my hunger streak with EDD's tele comp system... after trying countless times to get a live person this worked on the 1st try!..

Jessi

06/05/2013 10:25am

Omg! Worked the first time. My wait was 1 minute! Thank you thank you! I had been calling every 10 minutes for 3 days before I googled and found this.

kadybug

06/06/2013 9:37am

Thank you so much!!!!!!!! This worked like a charm!!!!!! I was frustrated and ready to give up and loose my benefits before I stumbled upon this site!!!!!!!

katherine

06/07/2013 9:06am

The number to call is 800-300-5616

Trudi

06/10/2013 9:42am

Huzzah!!! Pressing 5 for employer WORKED! I am so relieved I am shaking!!! Thank You!!

Jeff

06/12/2013 10:35am

This worked the first time and I got a live person in seconds! I got a flag removed from my account by correcting an address that had been partially cut off! Who hoo!

Anne

06/12/2013 10:50am

WORKED!! When i called and pressed these prompts the time was 10:31am. When i got to a live person, the time was still 10:31am!!!
I said i was filing a new claim, he said OK - and went from there!!

Kristin

06/14/2013 10:05am

I haven't been so happy for a long time! This trick is AMAZING. I spent 2 hours re-dialing and not getting anywhere. Then I found this and got thru immediately. No waiting whatsoever.

Thank you so much!

Ivy

06/14/2013 3:06pm

THANK YOU !!! After a so many calls and emails I finally spoke to a live person and resolved my problem!!! In less than 5 mins!!!

06/18/2013 8:46am

It worked the first time--no wait time at all! Should have tried this earlier!

Theresa

06/18/2013 4:38pm

YESSSSS!!!! After trying (and failing) other "tricks" I gave this one a shot. I was taken off guard when a real person answered. Lupe was super polite and helpful.
This definitely beats hearing the dreaded "due to the volume of callers..." message over and over and over and over........

James Butler

06/20/2013 8:30am

OMG! Got a live person in 30 secs on the FIRST try!

Kris

06/20/2013 10:39am

Works like a charm. Thank you so much, I have been trying to get a hold of EDD for three weeks and countless hours on the phone. This took only one time and the rep was so friendly!

Jeff link

06/20/2013 11:03pm

I'm glad to see this method continues to be such an effective way to get through! Thanks everyone for continuing to provide your feedback!

Trever1T

06/21/2013 9:16am

Thanks, this worked!

06/21/2013 11:25am

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! I live outside CA & have been trying unsuccessfully to get through for 45 days. Thank you again!

Melissa

06/21/2013 1:13pm

Thank you- never got through before, and website advised that phone call was required to open interstate claim. Finally, because NONE of the other tricks worked.

Maggie link

06/25/2013 10:55am

THANK YOU soooooooo MUCH! If I had to listen to "due to the number of callers..." prompt ONE more time, I would have exploded! Work on first try; only took a few seconds to speak to a LIVE person!

Thanks again!

jeff

06/28/2013 9:33am

Just tried this method and it worked very well! Got through right away on first try! The longest part was waiting through the recorded messages between prompts durning 1-5-1-1-0. Rep was VERY, VERY helpful and friendlyish (probably not fully friendly because overworked n stressed). THANK YOU TO THE PERSON THAT FOUND THIS TRICK AND TO THOSE WHO CONTINUED TO POST THAT IT STILL WORKS!!!

thomas link

07/01/2013 11:22am

I have gotten through as of july 1, 2013 using this method, I was on hold for maybe 30 seconds. Told them I want to file a claim when they answered the phone and they helped me without a hitch.

RDog

07/02/2013 11:47am

The best trick..well appreciated and thank you for your due diligence .

Jessica

07/02/2013 12:13pm

Wow, a real weight off my shoulders! This worked and i was finally able to talk to a real person, who gladly helped me! I won an appeal last month and have been just waiting to get payed, when i called the lady processed my payment over the phone and said that i should be payed with in the next 24 hours! I am so happy! THANK YOU :)

Ricardo CabrerA link

07/03/2013 9:04am

worked perfectly. was able to get through in exactly one minute

kristin

07/03/2013 6:35pm

Thank you for posting this. I tried the other tricks, but this was the only one that worked. It was really easy, I got through to a rep within a couple of minutes. I think they've caught on to the 213 number trick - tried that and got transferred immediately to the 800 number. But this suggestion actually worked - yay!

Lisa

07/08/2013 10:36am

Yes, it worked on my 3rd try. On and off the call within five minutes. Thank you!

Suzie

07/09/2013 10:20am

IT TOTALLY WORKED! THANK YOU THANK YOU. GOT THROUGH AND PUT ON HOLD RIGHT AWAY, WAITED LESS THAN ONE MINUTE FOR A REPRESENTATIVE. UNBELIEVABLE! WHAT A GREAT TIP!

Gary Z

07/09/2013 11:28am

NOT A SCAM! WORKED VERY FIRST TIME FOR ME. AGENT WAS GREAT AND THEY JUST ASK FOR YOUR SS# AND YOU'RE ON YOUR WAY! THANK YOU!

John

07/10/2013 10:54am

This loophole has been fixed. No longer works.

John

07/10/2013 11:45am

Please disregard my previous post. This option still works perfectly! Make sure you call (800) 300-5616 and not (866) 333-4606. It works perfectly with the (800) 300-5616 number. Got in touch with probably the nicest EDD rep ever. He spent at least 30 minutes on the phone with me straightening out my claim which was all screwed up. All good now. The trick is to be really nice no matter what the demeanor of the rep you talk to. Kill 'em with kindness. :)

Frank M

07/11/2013 8:39am

Tip of the hat to Anna for this tip. It worked perfectly. Total hold time was less than a minute before Mark picked up and was very helpful and personable in resolving my situation.

Carolina

07/11/2013 10:09am

It worked first try, the guy was understanding (I fibbed and told them my previous employer suggested calling this way since I needed to talk to someone) an he quickly gave me answers and advice. Thanks for saving my sanity!

Mary

07/12/2013 6:35pm

This works!!!! You have to get in on the Welcome message that allows for the English press 1 prompt. If you get the Thank you for calling that never allows for a prompt, hang up and call again. Sometimes it takes me 3x to call in and get the right intro message. But, after that, it's a breeze with the 5-1-1-0 sequence. Each time, my wait time was 1 minute for a live person. Amazing!! Thank you for this tip!!

07/17/2013 9:29am

Totally works! My payment amounts have been screwed up for the past 3 weeks, and I was never able to get anyone on the line during that time. Tried this simple trick and the helpful representative was able to correct the issue in less than 7 minutes! Can you say "back pay"? Major props to Anna for sharing this trick!

Noah Cook

07/17/2013 10:57am

IT WORKED! didnt even have a wait time. Spoke to Rose who was super cool and helped me fix the problem.

jax

07/17/2013 11:01am

oh yea!!!!

Theresa

07/23/2013 5:45pm

I've used this trick at least a half dozen times, including today. Works like a charm!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

Ria

07/26/2013 9:32am

I got through on the very first try!! Thank you!!!

Briant A

07/26/2013 10:40am

OMG after 2hrs i googled a trick to get me in and bam!
it works man im telling you!!!

r.hill

07/30/2013 11:15am

the first 5 times, i was disconnected automatically saying they didn't have anyone to take my call, the 6th time the message played out and I dialed 5110, worked in 1 minute!

ang

07/30/2013 11:49am

thank you so much. I have been going around in circles for almost 2 hours. Even tried the Vietnamese number but did not work.
This worked!!!! TY

Valerie

08/01/2013 8:59am

The cting as an employer trick worked perfectly as of Aug 1, 2013 08/01/2013 thank you
WTF california edd?!

08/02/2013 8:28am

As of 8/2/2013 8:26am I was able to get through to a live person!

josh

08/02/2013 8:38am

This really works! thank you sooo much

Izzy

08/02/2013 9:24am

Just got through on the 213 number. Like other callers, it took 8-10 minutes of pressing "0". All the operator asks for is social security number. She said she would transfer me to the correct department handling my claim (which I presume is Northern California)... 5 more minutes of pressing "0" and a different operator asked for my social security number. Once she had my file up, I was able to ask for what I needed.

Advice: Have a one quick sentence explanation of the problem you need to resolve. As others have stated, these people are overworked and don't have time for your life story.

The operator transferred me to an adjuster. The adjuster who comes on next is the one you can talk to. Be kind. Be understanding. Don't complain about how long it took to get there or how hard it has been without your EDD check. They know. They're trying.

And whatever you do - don't tell them how you got around the system! This site already shows up in the top 10 google hits for EDD so there is a good chance it will not last.

Gary

08/02/2013 12:10pm

After the 2nd recording of the guy talking about Obama and extensions blah blah blah, just hit 5-1-1-0.
Also, I do realize these reps are a bit overworked, but yesterday I was dropped two times and it wasn't an accident. One guy I could not understand his accent put me on hold and dropped me. Another lady who was Asian would not shut up from the moment she answered. When I tried to explain my problem, she again blabbed away, put me on hold and dropped me. The old "put-em-on-hold-and- drop-em" thing is so lowlife.
No excuse for that. Hey at least they have a job.

08/05/2013 11:00am

Yay!!!. It worked. I was trying for the past 4 days. This was great. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

Alicia

08/05/2013 11:50am

So it did work like a charm! However, I was asked by the representative whether or not I was asked to enter my ssn. He explained that they have been receiving phone calls that should not have gone through or something like that. Anyway, just a heads up that they are suspicious.

HOWEVER I GOT THROUGH AND MY SIMPLE YET SO IMPORTANT QUESTION WAS ANSWERED. THANK YOU!!!!!

V. Gutierrez

08/06/2013 10:24am

Wow! I am so grateful for this tip! It got me right through to a representative and relieved so much stress. I can't thank you enough!!!

Stefanie

08/07/2013 9:06am

Total lifesaver!!!!! My husband was about to break something!!!!

Brian R

08/16/2013 8:43am

After countless attempts to try and get through to no avail this trick worked! I was talking to a live person in less than 30 seconds. She helped me fix an error that had occurred and now everything is back on track. Thank you so much for this trick!

08/20/2013 8:33am

I did the 5-1-1-0....worked first time...no waiting....thanks.

Sin

08/22/2013 8:15am

I LOVE ANNA!! Thank you soooo much :) It took less than a minute to get through to someone. Plus, these people seem to be nicer.

Chelsea

08/23/2013 8:23am

After trying for days upon days and getting automatically hung up on, I called this combo at 8:15am on a Friday morning and a live person picked up in less than one minute. I was so shocked I almost didn't know what to say!. Thanks!!

Tanya

08/26/2013 10:17am

After trying for two weeks, this worked. It is a shame that you have to resort to tricks to get help! Thank you for the tip.

Elizabeth

08/27/2013 9:25am

671 worked like a charm ... got through in 1 minute! Unfortunately for me I needed SDI not unemployment. But for those needed to reach unemployment, know it works!

Jeff link

08/28/2013 6:43am

Thank you for sharing your experience with us! Hopefully you won't need any tricks to get through to someone at California SDI.
If you do run into similar difficulties getting through, feel free to let me know here and I'll research solutions and post a new page if I find anything helpful.

nikki

09/11/2013 10:05am

Elizabeth
It WORKED thank you so so so so so MUCH.

Angela

08/27/2013 12:15pm

Totally worked!

Eric link

08/28/2013 8:25am

Hey it worked for me. It sent me straight thru. Not even a waiting period!

Traci

08/30/2013 9:10am

Thank you! I spoke to the most helpful lady :)

Kate

09/05/2013 11:12am

Totally worked for me too!

Greg V

09/06/2013 9:55am

Great Tip, due to federal budget cuts EDD staffing and phone hours have been drastically cut back, called for days and never got through. Tried this one time and I was connected and cheerfully assisted within 45 seconds of calling no wait time at all.

MAXINE DEFELICE

09/09/2013 9:03pm

I just called today and waited 2 min then the nicest lady answered , she was having problems looking at my claim then said she would call me back ! I thought oh ya right .... low an behold she called me back a few hours later. I was in shock! Thank you I have been calling for 2 weeks and haven't been able to get through until today..Thanks Again

leann

09/10/2013 10:27am

I suppose they got wise to this - now the employer option dumps you out if its busy as well.

09/10/2013 11:40am

Not working anymore

: (

09/10/2013 12:50pm

It's not working anymore as of 9/10/13. This is ridiculous! Government Bureaucracy at it's worst!

Sar

09/11/2013 9:06am

I don't get any options to press anything....and when I do press 5, regardless whether I do it at the start of the call, while the recroding is speaking or immediatly after it finishes, it discconnects me. Each and every time. :(

MRS.MOLLY

09/13/2013 9:14am

CALL 909-383-4663 OR 916-683-4400 IT REALLY WORKS

Gary

09/13/2013 10:37am

I don't know if it's because so many people now know the 5-1-1-0, but I wouldn't say that's not working. It does loop you through but they're getting more calls, apparently.

As for the 909-383-4663 OR 916-683-4400 numbers? They REALLY don't work.

trae

09/16/2013 9:10am

Tried numerous times using 5110. To no avail. They have caught on. It now tells you there is a high volume of calls.

trae

09/16/2013 9:19am

Also the alternate #909-383-4663 or 916-683-4400 all they do is transfer you back to the EDD 800 number. So those numbers dont work either.

Kimberly

09/16/2013 9:57am

This totally worked! And the lady that helped me was so sweet and went out of her way to help me! Thank you for this!!

lost

09/16/2013 10:43am

ive been calling for a month and i cant get thru ... im gonna have to take legal matters against edd since i didn't get the benefits i was promised and ended up losing my home. this is complete unacceptable and injustice why even mislead people. Luckily i have a lawyer friend who is taking up my case pro bono to hopefully end some of these cycles.

trae

09/16/2013 3:27pm

Update: After trying for 2 days I finally got through using the 909 # and the 51 10 worked after hours of calling back to back.

Felicia

09/17/2013 9:07am

Thank you so much, this worked for me! I had no luck with using the alternate language lines. I literally called the 1-800 number 27 times, don't give up, keep calling until you get the recorded response prompting you. This worked the first time I could got the prompt line. The operators expect everyone to be using different tricks to get through, so they help you or transfer you to an appropriate representative (they have a separate cue). I was able to call this number and file my claim. Good luck!

Steveo

09/20/2013 8:38am

Will not work, been trying one week,tried this number got the recorded response put in the 5110, said there was a high volume of calls then hung up. 47 times this morning so far.

Bill link

09/20/2013 12:18pm

9/20/2013 Tried the Viet number.the first try was disconnected but the second try connected and my problems were solved within minutes.

I really did not believe that this would work, but today was a good day to be asian

Daniel

09/23/2013 11:02am

I think they are catching on to all these trick, none are working for me. But i shall not give up lol. Good luck everyone!

robin

09/24/2013 8:44am

Daniel I think youre right. I've been sitting here trying all these tricks..yes they get you to the point of speaking to someone faster, BUT the dang recording still comes on and says theres too many people already waiting. I've been trying to get through for a few weeks. I havent got any more forms to submit back since I got my first one for beginning of August. Nows its almost beginning of Oct. :(

KIM

09/24/2013 9:36am

They are definitely catching on, these tricks get you further than the 800 number would once you're put through there is an issue due to the number of people trying to speak to a representative.

Natalie

09/24/2013 9:41am

Yes! It worked for me. I have been calling since last week and finally got through today with those numbers...everything that I pushed before didn't work but this did...thank you.

Amanda

09/24/2013 10:54am

It's nice to see this worked for someone today, but I've been trying since 8am and still get disconnected right after they say I'm going to be put on hold. And now it's saying that they're closed, but it's not even 11am yet, is it a holiday today?

Gary Z

09/24/2013 11:55am

The 5-1-1-0 still works. I started calling around 7:57 am today and got the "Welcome" (not the Thank you for calling. . .") at 8:01. The recording said the office is currently closed and I said out loud "no, it's not" LOL
I immediately hit the 51-1-0 and only waited about a minute and was assisted by a live rep. As I have said, they aren't "wise" to this loophole shortcut, there's just thousands of other people competing with you at this number.

Gary Z

09/24/2013 11:55am

Mel

09/25/2013 11:18am

This works! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

This is what I recommend with the 5-1-1-0 formula:
Call the 1-800300-5616 number > if you hear "Thank you for calling..." hang up and dial again until you hear "Welcome to the Employment Development Department" > press 1 - 5 - 1 - 1 - 0 > then if hear a message that they have too many calls and you need to try again later start all over again. Rinse and repeat!

I did this about 10 times today at 11am and it worked! The rep asked me if I was an employer, and I said I am an employee and he was totally helpful and solved my problem in less than 5 mins. I thanked him for his hard work and apologized for dialing the employer line, he said "its ok, whatever you need to do to get through". Be nice to these people - they seem to be super overworked.

Best of luck to everyone else! Thanks again for this MARVELOUS tip!

Susan

10/18/2013 11:51am

It worked, it worked!!!!!! I got in and am now waiting to speak to a rep. I called the number about 10 times. Do exactly as Mel stated. Thanks sooooo much. Now let's see if someone answers after hearing this music. Ugh!!

STAR

01/21/2014 2:03pm

I BEEN CALLIN FOR THE LAST TOW WEEKS AND I DID TRY YOUR TRIK, SORRY TO SAY THAT BUT IT DID NOT WORK THANKS ANYWAY.

ash

09/27/2013 11:21am

Doesn't work for me

Cheree Hort

10/04/2013 9:33am

From Sacramento/Roseville area: I finally got through after weeks of anguish after the upgrade. Here is what I did. I tried calling the 800 300 5616 number until I got the Welcome message, then 1511. I kept getting the message that all the lines were full, even a one minute after they opened. So next I started going through all the numbers in this list but the number I called that started working was San Jose, 415 351 7200. I was on hold about 40 minutes. Then someone came on and asked for my social and quickly transferred me to a 909 number. I googled it and kept thinking this ain't gonna work. 909 is southern California. I was wrong. Another 10 minutes and two transfers later...Oh! The 909 number is 909 383 4663. The kicker was they had just deposited my funds. Good luck and the deal is just go through and call all the numbers. I would start with the 909 number. AND NEVER GIVE UP JUST LIKE THEY SAY.

Jenny

10/17/2013 9:53am

I just tried the 909 number and it worked! A woman answered and transferred me to a nice guy who helped with my question. Took maybe 5 minutes!

Zap

10/21/2013 11:11am

This worked GREAT! G.R.E.A.T. Thank you so much, Cheree! Someone answered right away and put me on hold for about 20 min. That person came back on and transferred me to someone else. That next lady was super polite and very informative. Gaining a new respect for UI employees for the simple fact that every time I do get through to someone they are helpful and sympathetic. Anyway, I was told my extension had just been processed and was going out in the mail today. She said if web cert wasn't showing it then I might have to mail in the first form which would hopefully be in my mailbox no later than Friday. So, seems like they are catching up and back on track. Thanks again for the 909 tip!

unriddler link

10/14/2013 9:24am

THIS IS HOW YOU GET THROUGH!

CALL (800) 547-2058

YOU WILL HEAR VIETNAMESE.

PRESS 5 wait 4 secs

PRESS 0 wait 4 secs

PRESS 1 at this point you should hear music.

A person will answer in a few minutes in english and voilla!!!

This worked today October 14, 2013 good luck all.

Captain Betty White

10/15/2013 2:12pm

If you live in northern CA you can call 916.683.4400 to talk directly to a human.

Susan

10/17/2013 9:56am

This really does work, after 4 weeks of trying to get through to see what happened to my 3rd Federal Extension... I used Mel's info above...reposting - thanks all

This works! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

This is what I recommend with the 5-1-1-0 formula:
Call the 1-800300-5616 number > if you hear "Thank you for calling..." hang up and dial again until you hear "Welcome to the Employment Development Department" > press 1 - 5 - 1 - 1 - 0 > then if hear a message that they have too many calls and you need to try again later start all over again. Rinse and repeat!

I did this about 10 times today at 11am and it worked! The rep asked me if I was an employer, and I said I am an employee and he was totally helpful and solved my problem in less than 5 mins. I thanked him for his hard work and apologized for dialing the employer line, he said "its ok, whatever you need to do to get through". Be nice to these people - they seem to be super overworked.

Best of luck to everyone else! Thanks again for this MARVELOUS tip!
Reply

Ian

10/21/2013 10:26am

Tried it. doesn't work, they just tell you due to call volume they are unable to take calls, try again later..

Pamela link

10/23/2013 12:03pm

have been trying for 10 days and yes, even if I was able to get through per the above by the time it gets to the very last and puts me through it is then that too many people are holding....

Jade

10/21/2013 10:52am

Thanks a million! Been TRYING to call for weeks. After numerous tips and tricks I was ready to give up. Then I came across your helpful tip, and a miracle happened! I finally got thru after my 3rd redial. Awesome! I had made a mistake on my claim form, causing my $ to stop. Haven't been paid in a month because I was instructed to call EDD. I just couldn't get thru. Finally with your help, I've corrected the issue and I should have my $ within 3 business days. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Pamela link

10/22/2013 8:39am

I, of course did not get through. By the time I got to 0, it was the same as always. "too many people on hold, call back later" You all are very lucky

Pamela link

10/22/2013 8:42am

Unriddler, I tried your way as well and I am pretty certain it said too many people on hold, b/c nobody came on the line and than I was disconnected

monica

10/29/2013 8:11am

calling the 18003005616 and pressing 1,5,1,1,0 works you should just call right at 8 am . Did that this morning and after a few hang ups after hearing " thank you for calling edd" I finally got the " welcome to edd" and got through on the first try :)

Dale

11/04/2013 3:02pm

Tried the 213 number and it worked!!! On hold now for the San Diego office!!!!!

Jannell

11/22/2013 10:45am

Did you every get the number for the San Diego Office because I just spoke to a rude man that just hung up on me

john

11/22/2013 10:57am

What is the 213 number??

heather

01/16/2014 4:33pm

213-477-1405. I tried calling early in the morning and kept pressing 0 to hold until I got dropped. I tried around 11:45 a.m. before they closed and I got through and had all my questions answered.

01/17/2014 9:57am

Tried 300 times each day this week, no joke; 3+ hours straight each time. I am unable to file online or mail. They will allow phone only. Unfortunately, tried the trick 10 times so far and no luck...guess I'll keep at it.

Paul Jackson

01/21/2014 8:13am

Wow! One minute on hold after three weeks of trying to get through! One extra trick: Since I speak English, I did not wait for the entire opening message to finish. I immediately pushed 1 (for English) then 5-1-1-0. It was great!! Thanks!!

Jenny

11/08/2013 9:00am

5110 has not worked for me. Been trying ALL WEEK - on the phone for a couple hours each morning. 90% of the calls went straight to the message about too many callers. 1 in maybe 20 calls I would get through to be able to hit 5110, but always was connected to the message about too many callers in the end.

We pay into unemployment insurance - it should not be this hard to use a service we PAY FOR.

Daddy

11/15/2013 9:32am

I FUCKING HATE UNEMPLOYMENT , I FINALLY GOT THROUGH THOUGH USING THE 5-1-1-0 METHOD. JESUS FUCKING LORD ABOUT FUCKING TIME GOD DAMNIT FUCK UNEMPLOYMENT I HATE THEIR BITCH ASSES

Kitty Lane

11/20/2013 11:04am

I just called 909-383-4663, a lady answered but said to file a claim I have to call the 800 number before 10.

Susie

11/22/2013 10:41am

I had to reschedule a job interview so I could spend the entire morning not getting through to EDD. I've used all the tips above and nothing works. Haven't been paid in a month because I supposedly filled out my form wrong TWICE, which is BS. I desperately need the money. I have made over 300 attempts since 8 AM this morning.

Susie

11/22/2013 11:35am

I used Unriddler's suggestion and FINALLY spoke with a human being who got my claim form up to date.

Turns out, I did nothing wrong. Unfortunately, I claim residuals, and although I've been claiming them as income correctly for years, the new system doesn't get it all of a sudden. So goody, this will probably keep happening!

THIS IS HOW YOU GET THROUGH!

CALL (800) 547-2058

YOU WILL HEAR VIETNAMESE.

PRESS 5 wait 4 secs

PRESS 0 wait 4 secs

PRESS 1 at this point you should hear music.

Charlene

02/20/2014 10:13am

It worked! Thank you :)

11/26/2013 9:08am

The 5-1-1-0 worked for me this morning at 8:30am (it's a Tuesday today). I've tried the Vietnamese line and it has never worked for me. The 5-1-1-0 is the only way I've been able to get through to the CA EDD since they changed their hours to short days. The first trick is the moment you hear them start the greeting with, "Thank you" you've got to hang up and redial. The only way you can get to the 5-1-1-0 is if you get the greeting that begins with "Welcome." I had to redial for about 8 minutes (constant hang up, redial, hang up redial) until I got it to say "Welcome."

Carolina

12/16/2013 9:00am

Finally got in with this!! But you have to first Dial "1" for English, then 5 - 1 - 1 - 0. Most exciting thing ever to hear "your wait time is 3 minutes". This system is a complete fail, but there's nothing we can do about it...

phil

12/03/2013 9:45am

none of these methods work at all now if they are too busy they will just hang up on you and you have to start from square 1

cindy bidwell

12/03/2013 10:54am

None of these are working for me at all. I haven't had any money for over a month, what else can I do? Thanks.

Susie

12/03/2013 1:52pm

It's like the entire system has shut down. I finally got paid on my claim from a month ago, they sent me one payment. The next claim form I sent in definitely had NO mistakes and I didn't even claim residuals (the last reason the computer rejected my claim--the new system didn't recognize it). Now it's been over a week since I should have received payment. Here we go again.

This is an absolute disaster.

Susie

12/03/2013 1:52pm

Susie

12/03/2013 1:52pm

Kim

12/11/2013 10:53am

This is absolutely ridiculous. I have been trying for days to get ahold of someone--using all of the above methods--to no avail. This is shameful-and so very frustrating! The fact that we are just expected to accept this, especially during a stressful time of unemployment, is NOT acceptable. We are at their mercy...

Susie

12/11/2013 2:33pm

8 days since I last posted and no money, even though I have 3 claims outstanding. They even sent me another new claim form for the last two weeks of November (that's how behind they are. Even that still hasn't brought my claim up to date.

I mean, they keep sending me forms as if everything's fine, but there's still no money coming in. AND I can't get through no matter what I do. Is there any way left to get through?

James William

01/09/2014 10:35am

hello Susie, did you finally get paid? Many people, including my brother have not been paid in almost a month. I was able to get through right away using the tips in this forum, and should be receiving my claim forms next week. Are you saying that you sent in your claim forms and still did not receive your benefits? The people I know who have not been paid is because they are not diligent enough to get through, why are your claims outstanding?

Susie

01/16/2014 5:07pm

Yes, I did get paid, James. It took forever, btw. I typed up a letter and enclosed it in the envelope with my claim form. I made copies of it and put it in each time. My claim forms were turned in on time and filled out perfectly. I reported every dime I received as income, even if it was $2.00. The one time I was able to speak to someone she explained that the new system doesn't understand when actors report their residuals as income.

The letter essentially said that I completely understand that they're overworked and understaffed, but due to a computer error, my claim keeps getting kicked back. I would think that the EDD staff hates the new system as much as we do.

I tried to be funny about it, but pretty much said, "please have mercy on me, take a look and process this claim so that we don't continue to waste each other's precious time."

Every claim (about 6 weeks) went through after that. Of course now, the extension program is over so the money has stopped for me. Good luck to you.

Paul

12/18/2013 9:42am

Dial (800) 300-5616. Then dial 1,6,7,3 to speak with a rep. 1 represents the selection of english. If you hear the words "thank you" as soon as you call, hang up. It means they are receiving more calls than can even be answered by their automated prompt system. But if you hear "welcome", it means you have gotten through to the prompt system. This still doesn't guarantee you'll get though to a live person, as after you've entered your social, then confirmed by pressing 1, they may still tell you they can't answer your call at this time due to the number of people already in the que. As soon as you hear this, hang up, and call again.

Andre

12/31/2013 8:58am

I was able to use this trick and got through in 3 minutes. My case was further complicated by the fact that the claim forms I received were misprints and held up my payments. Spoke to a lady named Ricada. (she rocks) She was very professional and helpful. I hope I don't have to call back but, I was very lucky to get her on the line.

James William

01/09/2014 10:26am

My wife and I started calling edd at 7:59. It took about an hour to get through by following the prompts for employers. Thank you to all who provided this great tip! The representative was a white guy who spoke English! He was very helpful and re-opened my claim in less than five minutes. I attempted to file a claim online, however, this requires a ton of information (as if you are filing a new claim) and if you make one mistake on the website then you are screwed! If you depend on receiving your benefits asap then you have to file over the phone. I am thankful for this forum so I wanted to share my experience..hope this helps! The prompts to input are: 1, 5, 1, 1, 0.

Cee

01/22/2014 9:58am

Just Informing everyone the employer works.
Dial 1-800-300-5616.
When they say "welcome..." start promting to press 1(english), 2(spanish), ..., press 5 (like employer), then pres "1", and again "1", and right after that press "0".
They will tell you your waiting time, i waited 3 min., and you'll get a LIVE person to answer your question. She was so helpful.
Goodluck!

California

01/27/2014 10:04am

Worked for me. Rep was very helpful. You have to wait until you hear the gretting "welcome" before you can enter promts. If you hear "thank you" hang up and redial.

DA Arnold

02/06/2014 10:36am

I got through on the main line 800-300-5616 1-6-7-3 SS# then 1. Only to bet put on hold and then dropped. No call back.

Back to the gauntlet again...

CVelasco

02/13/2014 9:36am

This worked 15110

Frank link

02/19/2014 11:08am

The. 916-683-4400 worked first try had to wait 10 min. But the guy got me my answers in 5 try it.

Mike

01/14/2015 9:56am

Tried this today and was able to get through in 15min, thanks so much!

Delaina Lyons

02/25/2014 10:52am

3 minutes! woot! worked for me today..

03/08/2014 2:01pm

I have a question that I am hoping someone would be able to answer. I just received a Continued Claim for 1st week 2/23/14-3/1/14 and for 2nd week ending on 3/8/14. I began working on 2/28/14, but was release via telephone call 6/14. I have completed the form with the amounts earned for each week. Will I be able go to Web-Cert to input that information, or do I have to call EDD? Please assist, as one can no longer ask EDD any questions due to shortness of personnel>

Help!

03/14/2014 5:16pm

Yesss! Finally!! This 5-1-1-0 trick really works. What a shame EDD provides no similar path for us Commoners to get through to a live person other than pretend we are an employer :( The wait time was less than 1 minute :) I'm surprised EDD has not caught on to this trick by now and at least ask why we pretended to be an employer, but oh well, at least I got through when otherwise it was impossible. Thank You, Anna, for this Great Tip !!!

Cliff

03/18/2014 9:53am

Awesome Tip!!! Was able to get through right away and all my business was quickly resolved by an extremely cordial and professional customer service gentleman.

Mike

04/14/2014 8:39am

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
Worked first time. My wife had been attempting to contact EDD daily, and kept running into a roadblock on the EDD "Help" line (now, there's a misnomer) and was only able to get to the point where the message stating that everyone was busy with other callers, to try to call back later, and then disconnect the call.
Again, thank you so much for this post.

Sarah

04/16/2014 10:31am

It worked! The first time I called I got through on the 2nd try, but today it took me about 20. I just called over and over and finally ws able to speak to someone. Don't give up!! :)

Brandon link

04/16/2014 10:39am

Took a few trys but finally got thru after months of trying the other way thankyou so much

TPV link

05/12/2014 11:42am

Great tip! I got through on the second try! I didn't get the answer I wanted, but at least I GOT an answer.

Nate Crown

05/30/2014 9:05am

thank you so so so much!! this worked for me and i really am truly grateful..
turns out do to an error on EDDs part i was denied. I had already submitted my appeal form when i decided to call. But now my claim is all worked out!! thank god for this post i cannot begin to describe how frustrating it is to call the EDD just to get hung up on!!

Cathy

06/02/2014 12:27pm

OMG this worked for me after the first try. I waited about 2 minutes & actually got to talk to a person who was most helpful. It turned out there was confusion of the name of my employer because it did not match what was on my W2 form because they changed their outsourcing of who sends out the checks. Since my pay stub says a different name than my W2 it was confusing to me on the forms which name they wanted despite having clearly stated on both forms the employer ID number. This was rectified & confirmed by the person I spoke with compared to the numerous dials to the EDD for the last two weeks with unnecessary prompts only to be told they can't except my phone call. Now I just have to wait for the letter of rectification and hopefully my first unemployment check. Thanks again, this made my day & thank goodness I found this post!

Big Jim

06/17/2014 11:23am

This worked for me. It took 3 attempts, and I was finally on hold. An agent answered after 2 minutes, asked for my vitals, and my issue was resolved. Easy. Thank you!

I dialed 1-800-300-5616, 1 (for English) then 5-1-1-0. I pressed the numbers in one second intervals.

trish

07/08/2014 8:23am

Yes!! it works

Robert

07/09/2014 8:26am

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. After calling for 4 days straight I was finally able to hear those words "Please continue to hold". I called at 7:40- "Sorry our office is closed" again 7:58 "Sorry our office is closed". Exactly at 8:00 A.M. "Due to the high volume of calls we cannot accept calls at this time. Please call again later". Can you explain this one to me? Yes I am speaking to a live operator now. Again, THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU !!! THANK YOU!!!

Erin

07/17/2014 11:43am

Worked on my first try! I couldn't even get on hold trying to call the normal way I just got hung up on. With this 5-1-1-0 method I was put on hold and 15 minutes later was on the phone with a person! Thank you! While I was on hold the music stopped for awhile, don't let this confuse you! You are still on hold (I thought maybe it didn't work but I stayed on and eventually the hold music started again haha)

Robert

07/17/2014 12:38pm

Isn't it amazing the feeling you felt when you just realized "I GOT THROUGH!!!! YES!!! YES!!! YES!!!!

sherri

07/21/2014 9:11am

I tried for over an hour to get through to a live person on 800-300-5616 and couldn't get through. I tried this trick and it only took 2 calls and a 3 minute wait! THANK YOU!!!!!!

viviane

07/21/2014 9:14am

It worked in my second attempt! Thanks a lot.

Rob

08/13/2014 9:44am

Did not work. I was given a number for disability and never got through.

Eric

09/29/2014 10:41am

After trying for 2 hours this morning the regular way and being hung up on repeatedly due to the high number of calls I tried the employer method, 5,1,1,0 and after 3 attempts I got through, waiting 3mins and the gentleman helped me resolve my issues. Thanks a lot for posting this, it sure helped calm my panic.

nick

10/07/2014 1:37pm

Worked the lady came on in 1 minute and helped with my claim
thanks

TD Pittsford

10/30/2014 11:33am

At first I tried to file my claim online but got to a section asking me for information EDD already had and I did not, I tried to call them in order to avoid any possibility of delaying my claim. After what seemed like an eternity pushing buttons and listening to endless confusing menus and then being on hold with all the other numbers (the regular 800 number is a cruel joke) I found this trick on this website and not only did I get through but the agent was good enough to file the claim for me. I will nominate Mitch for some kind of congressional commendation...although congress doesn't normally reward anyone for helpfulness and efficiency. I want to thank the authors of this website, they saved me tons of time and aggravation!

marilyn

11/03/2014 12:01pm

It worked like a champ! Talked to a nice, professional and HELPFUL EDD person within 2 minutes (and I called just before lunchtime).

Norman

12/10/2014 9:20am

YES! It worked, but she forgot the 1 for English that comes before the 5 for Employer. So, the sequence is: 1-5-1-1-0 and then if you get a message about waiting press 3 to continue waiting.

Amy

01/29/2015 8:58am

This worked! Thank you!

screw_edd

12/17/2014 9:35am

1 for english - then 3 - (for this next one you have to wait until recording finishes or else it won't recognize your entry!) press 5 - now 7 - then it will put you in line for the next rep, and you enter your social.

So, 1 - 3 - wait - 5 - 7 - social BOOM!

and no one complaining that I was in the wrong area, which has happened with other tricks.

The one listed here hangs up when it's too busy, which is always.

Adrian

12/22/2014 10:37am

I'm having a very difficult time trying to get on. Can anybody go through the process again?

Gabriela

12/31/2014 8:53am

I had found a 714 number that directly helped my issue when filing in early November. I think I lost that number or maybe it was caught on because when I called that number again I got a rude lady who said I had to call the 800 number, that this was the appeal number. Then hung up.

I'm tried this method at 8:30 am, was told to hold for 4min... But really 10 min. A lady then asked for my name and social was super nice! This method worked!

Normally, I get a letter the week of saying if I will be paid out or not. My direct deposit (if I get one cause I sometimes work part time) is then received by Wednesday morning. But because the holidays... We'll see.

mia

01/23/2015 11:00am

IT WORKS!!!!!

Nick

01/26/2015 10:04am

Worked great, definitely use this instead of saying you're a claimant. Experienced no problems whatsoever with the EDD rep. after trying this, worked the first time.

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Tricks to Get Through to California Unemployment

If you have a reason to contact California's Unemployment offices, you probably know this is no simple task. Fortunately, there are other lesser known, and LESS BUSY phone lines available to anyone that knows them and knows how to use them.

This site will walk you through everything you need to know to get through to EDD today!

Latest Trick to Get Through to EDD

Leave a Reply.

Top Methods for Getting Through:

Archives

Categories

EDD CA

Tricks to Speak with a Live Person

CA EDD Office Locations

If you have a reason to contact California's Unemployment offices, you probably know this is no simple task.
Fortunately, there are other lesser known, and LESS BUSY phone lines available to anyone that knows them and knows how to use them.