Yes, you can transfer EDD funds to your bank account, but the method depends on which EDD program you're receiving and how you chose to receive payments

The California Employment Development Department (EDD) offers three main ways to receive unemployment or disability benefits: direct deposit to a bank account, a prepaid debit card called the EDD Debit Card, or a check. If you're currently receiving payments by debit card or check and want to move that money to your own bank account, you have options. If you're starting fresh, you can set up direct deposit from the beginning. The fastest and most reliable method is direct deposit, which typically takes one to two business days after EDD processes your payment.

Key Takeaways

  • Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive EDD funds and moves money to your bank account automatically each week or every two weeks, depending on your program.
  • If you're currently using the EDD Debit Card, you can transfer the balance to your bank account through ATM withdrawals, online transfers, or by requesting a check from the card issuer.
  • To set up or change your payment method to direct deposit, you must contact EDD through their website, phone line, or by mail—the change takes effect on your next payment cycle.
  • EDD does not charge you to set up direct deposit, but some banks may charge fees for receiving transfers or maintaining accounts.
  • If you lose access to your bank account or debit card, contact EDD when ready to prevent payment delays or fraud.

Setting up direct deposit with EDD

Direct deposit is the method EDD recommends because it's free, fast, and find. To set up direct deposit, you need your bank's routing number and your account number. You can find both on a blank check from your account, or call your bank directly to ask. EDD accepts checking and savings accounts from any U.S. bank, credit union, or financial institution.

You can request direct deposit through three channels: the EDD website (edd.ca.gov), by calling the EDD customer service line at 1-833-675-0064, or by mailing a form to EDD's office. If you call, have your Social Security number and bank details ready. The change typically takes effect on your next scheduled payment date, which is usually within one to two weeks. Once direct deposit is active, EDD will deposit your funds automatically every week or every two weeks, depending on your program.

Moving money from the EDD Debit Card to your bank account

If you're currently receiving payments on the EDD Debit Card (issued by Bank of America), you have several ways to move that money to your own bank account. The simplest method is to withdraw cash from an ATM and deposit it yourself, but this takes time and carries the risk of loss or theft. A faster option is to transfer money directly from the debit card to your bank account if your bank supports incoming transfers.

To do this, log into your personal bank's website or app and look for an option to transfer money from an external account. You'll need the EDD Debit Card number, the routing number for Bank of America (which varies by region), and your card's expiration date and CVV. Some banks call this a "transfer from another bank" or "external transfer." The transfer usually takes one to three business days. Alternatively, you can call Bank of America's customer service line (the number is on the back of your EDD Debit Card) and request a check be mailed to you, though this takes seven to ten business days.

Changing your payment method if you're receiving checks

If EDD is currently sending you paper checks, switching to direct deposit will speed up the process significantly. Checks take five to seven business days to arrive by mail, and you still need to deposit them yourself. Direct deposit eliminates both delays.

Contact EDD through the same three channels listed above—website, phone, or mail—and provide your bank account information. Once the change is processed, your next payment will go directly to your account. If you have checks in the mail when you make the change, they will still arrive; EDD cannot recall them. You can deposit checks remotely using your bank's mobile app if you don't want to visit a branch.

What happens if your bank account information changes

If you close the bank account where EDD deposits your funds, or if you switch banks, you must update your information with EDD before your next payment date. If you don't, EDD's payment will be rejected by the bank, and the funds will be returned to EDD. You'll then need to contact EDD to reissue the payment, which delays your money by at least one week.

To update your bank account, contact EDD and provide your new routing number and account number. Make this change as soon as you know your old account is closing. If a payment is rejected because of an old account, call EDD when ready at 1-833-675-0034 (the claims line) to report the issue and request that the payment be reissued to your new account.

Fees and costs associated with transfers

EDD does not charge you to set up direct deposit or to change your payment method. However, your bank may charge fees depending on your account type. Some banks charge a monthly maintenance fee, a fee for each deposit, or a fee for transfers. Check your bank's fee schedule or call them directly to understand what you'll be charged.

If you're using the EDD Debit Card and transferring money to your bank account, Bank of America may charge a fee for the transfer or for ATM withdrawals outside their network. Review your EDD Debit Card agreement or call the number on the back of the card to confirm what fees explore to your specific situation.

What to do if your transfer doesn't arrive

If you set up direct deposit but the money doesn't appear in your account within two business days of your payment date, contact your bank first. Ask them to confirm they received the deposit from EDD and whether it's pending. If your bank has no record of the transfer, contact EDD when ready at 1-833-675-0064 and provide your claim number, Social Security number, and the date you expected the payment. EDD can trace the payment and reissue it if necessary.

If you transferred money from the EDD Debit Card to your bank account and it hasn't arrived within three business days, contact your bank's customer service line. Provide them with the date and amount of the transfer. If your bank cannot locate the transfer, contact the EDD Debit Card customer service line at the number on the back of your card to report the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have EDD deposit money to multiple bank accounts?

No. EDD allows only one bank account per claim at a time. If you want to split deposits between accounts, you would need to set up the transfer yourself after the money arrives in your primary account, or use your bank's bill pay or transfer features to move money between your own accounts.

How long does it take to set up direct deposit with EDD?

The request itself takes minutes if you call or use the website. The change takes effect on your next scheduled payment date, which is usually within one to two weeks. Once active, direct deposit is automatic and takes one to two business days per payment.

What if I don't have a bank account?

You can continue to receive payments on the EDD Debit Card, or you can request that EDD mail you checks. Some community banks and credit unions offer low-cost or free checking accounts if you want to open one to receive direct deposit.

Can I transfer EDD money to someone else's bank account?

No. EDD will only deposit funds into a bank account in your name. If you need someone else to access the money, you can withdraw it and give it to them, or add them as an authorized user on your bank account (if your bank allows it).

What if EDD deposits money to the wrong account by mistake?

Contact EDD when ready at 1-833-675-0064 with your claim number and the incorrect account information. EDD will work with the bank that received the deposit to recover the funds and reissue the payment to the correct account. This process can take two to four weeks.