Bank of America Edd Card (BOA EDD)

New Chip-Enabled Debit Cards

Starting July 25, you will receive a new chip-enabled debit card if you:

  • Are a new claimant receiving EDD benefits for the first time.
  • Have a card that is expiring soon.
  • Need a replacement card because your card is expired or has been lost, stolen, or damaged. 

If you have a question about activity on your account related to fraud or suspected fraud, contact a Bank of America fraud specialist directly at 1-800-558-9226.

About the Debit Card

The EDD issues benefit payments for Disability Insurance, Paid Family Leave, and Unemployment Insurance claims using a visa debit card. This prepaid debit card is a fast, convenient, and secure way to get your benefit payments and is not subject to a credit check or monitoring by the EDD. With the debit card you can:

  • Get your money sooner.
  • Use it everywhere VISA is accepted (in stores, online, and by phone).
  • Withdraw cash at ATMs, banks, and stores with cash back options.
  • Transfer funds to the financial institution of your choice at no additional cost.
  • Be notified when a deposit is made to your card or when you have a low balance.
  • Receive fraud protection from a Zero Liability Policy.

Note: Your card is valid for three years from the date it is issued and is used for all EDD benefit programs, so you should keep it until it expires.

New Cardholders

If you have never had a debit card from the EDD before, Bank of America will mail you a card after your first benefit payment has been issued by the EDD . It can take 7 to 10 business days to receive your card in the mail.

To activate a new card, use one of the following methods:

  • Online – Visit the Bank of America debit card website and select Activate My Card.
  • By phone – If you are calling from within the United States, call 1-866-692-9374 or 1-866-656-5913 (TTY). If you are calling from outside of the United States, call collect at 1-423-262-1650.

Existing Cardholders

Your card is valid for three years from the date it is issued and is used for all EDD benefit programs. If you previously participated in an EDD benefit program using a card, and began participating in an EDD benefit program again within three years of the date the card was issued, you will not have to wait for a new card to receive benefits. We will continue to load funds on your existing card and you will have immediate access to them.

1. What are the benefits of having the EDD Debit Card?

Card benefits:

  • No more waiting for checks in the mail.
  • Use everywhere VISA debit cards are accepted – in stores, online, or by phone.
  • Get access to cash at ATMs, point of sale* terminals, and at Visa banks and credit unions.
  • Use your card to pay bills.

* A point of sale is a business or place where a product or service can be purchased.

2. What will I receive with my EDD Debit card?

The following items are in your EDD Debit Card welcome packet:

  • EDD Debit Card
  • Instructions and information
  • Wallet-size Quick Reference Guide with customer service and fee schedule information
  • California Employment Development Department Debit Card Deposit Agreement
  • Bank of America Privacy Policy

When you receive your card, carefully read all information to ensure proper activation and use of the card. We recommend you activate your card immediately.

3. Will my name appear on my EDD Debit Card?

Yes, your name will appear on the EDD Debit Card. The card is personalized in your name as the benefit payment recipient.

4. Can my EDD Debit Card account be a joint ownership account?

No. All EDD Debit Card accounts will be issued in your name only.

5. Can I use my EDD Debit Card immediately?

Once the card is received you must call EDD Debit Card Customer Service toll-free at 1.866.692.9374 or visit online customer service at www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard to activate the card and select your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Once activated, you may use your card.

6. How can I transfer my funds to my checking or savings account?

You may transfer some or all of your benefits to your checking or savings account by performing a one-time or recurring direct deposit transfer online at www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard or by calling customer service at 1.866.692.9374. Please Note: The Employment Development Department will not contact you under any circumstances to request personal bank account information. Any direct deposit transfer request must be initiated by you through Bank of America.

7. How can I check the current balance in my EDD Debit Card account?

You can check your debit card balance 24 hours a day at no cost by using automated account information via the toll-free customer service number: 1.866.692.9374. You may also check your balance by doing a balance inquiry at an ATM, or online at www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard. It is recommended you perform a balance inquiry before performing a transaction so you will know how much money is available in your EDD Debit Card account.

Mobile text and e-mail alerts for daily balance and low balance are also available. Sign-up for alerts by logging in to your account and selecting Alert Settings and Alert Options under Profile.

8. What are the fees associated with using my account?

Fees can be avoided with careful use of your card. Most merchants do not charge a fee when you make a purchase. Many grocery stores also offer cash back without a fee when you make a purchase. You can get cash from ATMs and from tellers at banks and credit unions that accept Visa cards; however, fees may apply after you exceed the number of free transactions at non-Bank of America ATMs.

There are no fees for the following:

  • Cash-back with purchases at grocery stores, drug stores, and U.S. post office locations.
  • ATM withdrawals at domestic Bank of America ATMs.
  • Two free ATM withdrawals per deposit at non-Bank of America ATMs*.
  • Unlimited teller cash access at any bank or credit union that accepts Visa cards.
  • Unlimited direct deposit transfers to a checking or savings account.
  • Unlimited balance inquiries at ATMs and online customer service at www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard
  • Unlimited automated and live customer service inquiries.
  • Free domestic card replacements.

When you receive your welcome packet, thoroughly read your California Employment Development Department Debit Card Deposit Agreement and refer to the Schedule of Bank Fees section to ensure you understand any transaction and service fees that may apply to your card.

*ATM owners may impose an additional “convenience fee” or “surcharge fee” for certain ATM transactions (a sign should be posted at the ATM to indicate additional fees); however, you will not be charged any additional convenience or surcharge fees at a Bank of America ATM which will prominently display the Bank of America name and logo.

9. What is a transaction fee or service fee?

Fees for debit card transactions are charged to your account on the day they occur. Please refer to your complete Schedule of Bank Fees in your deposit agreement to ensure you understand any transaction and service fees that may apply to your card.

10. When are transaction fees charged?

Fees for debit card transactions are charged to your account on the day they occur. Please refer to your complete Schedule of Bank Fees in your deposit agreement to ensure you understand any transaction and service fees that may apply to your card.

11. How do I use my EDD Debit Card?

To use a card with only a magnetic stripe:

Purchases with a PIN:
1. Swipe your card.
2. Choose “debit.” and enter your PIN.
3. If you want cash, select the amount and it will be added to your purchase.
4. Take your card, cash, and receipt.

To get cash or check your balance at an ATM:
1. Insert your card and enter your PIN.
2. Select “checking” to make a withdrawal or “checking” and “balance inquiry” to check your balance.
3. Enter amount you wish to withdraw.
4. Take your card, cash, and receipt.

Purchases with a signature:
1. Present or swipe your card.
2. Choose “credit.”
3. Sign, take your card, and receipt.

To use a chip-enabled card (new and replacement cards, only):

1. Insert your card in the terminal.
2. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction. You may be asked to enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) or verify the transaction as you normally would. If you would like cash back from a Merchant, choose “debit” and enter your PIN, and the amount entered will be added to your purchase if your balance is sufficient. Otherwise, you may select credit.
3. Remove your card from the terminal once your transaction is complete.
If a terminal is not chip enabled, you can swipe your card and follow instructions as prompted.

To get cash at a Visa bank and credit union:

1. Ask the teller for a “Visa Manual Cash Disbursement.”
2. Present your card and say how much you want from your available balance. The teller will not charge you a fee for this service.
3. Take your card, cash, and receipt.

Transferring your money:

You may choose to transfer some or all of your benefits to your checking or savings account by performing a direct deposit transfer online at www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard or by calling live customer service at 1.866.692.9374.

12. Will my EDD Debit Card affect my credit score?

No. The card is not associated with a credit line and will not show up on your credit report. Your EDD Debit Card allows you to access your benefit payment funds out of your EDD Debit Card account.

13. Can I get cash at a point of sale terminal?

Yes. Many merchants offer the ability to take up to a certain amount in cash back with a point of sale purchase. The amounts could vary by merchant, and usually are $20, $50, or $100.

14. How long do my benefit payments stay on my card?

Benefit payments are available as long as you have a valid card. The EDD Debit Card is valid for three years from the date of issue.

15. How often are funds deposited on my card?

Benefit payments will be deposited into your account in increments for each period you are eligible.

16. Is there a daily maximum I can take from my EDD Debit Card account?

For security reasons, there may be limits on the amount, number or type of transactions that you can make using your Card, and we may restrict access to your Card if we notice suspicious activity. Most ATMs require that cash withdrawals be made in multiples of a dollar amount (e.g. $10 or $20). In addition, some ATM operators have maximum amounts that may be withdrawn at a machine in one transaction. Many merchants limit the amount of cash that may be obtained in connection with a purchase transaction.

17. How do I keep track of my account transaction activity?

Your account transaction activity is available 24 hours a day at www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard. You may also call toll-free Bank of America EDD Debit Card Customer Service at 1.866.692.9374 for automated information on your recent deposits and transactions. Also, get notified immediately when you have a new deposit through the value load alert. Sign-up for alerts by logging in to your account and selecting Alert Settings and Alert Options under Profile.

If a monthly paper statement is desired, you may call Bank of America EDD Debit Card Customer Service at 1.866.692.9374 and request statements at no charge.

18. Who should I call with questions about my EDD Debit Card account?

The toll-free Bank of America EDD Debit Card Customer Service number is 1.866.692.9374 and is displayed on the back of your card, as well as within your user guide information. You may also obtain account information via online customer service at www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard.

19. Am I responsible for transactions that I did not make?

The Bank of America “Zero Liability” Policy protects you against fraudulent transactions if your card is lost or stolen (subject to certain conditions). If you lose your card or someone uses your EDD Debit Card without your permission, it is important that you contact Bank of America EDD Debit Card Customer Service at 1.866.692.9374 as soon as you can to report the card lost or stolen, report any unauthorized transactions, and begin the error resolution or dispute process. The California Employment Development Department Debit Card Deposit Agreement you receive with your card will provide specific instructions on the dispute process and the time frames that apply to the Bank of America “Zero Liability” Policy. In addition, Visa Purchase Security and Visa Zero Liability programs also protect you from unauthorized card use.

20. What are the Bank of America EDD Debit Card Customer Service hours?

For your convenience automated account information and dedicated customer service representatives are available 24 hours day, 7 days a week by calling 1.866.692.9374 or you can go online at www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard.

EDD Debit Card automated account information options include:

  • Activate your card
  • Select or change your PIN
  • Check account balance and recent transactions
  • Check date/amount of last deposit
  • Speak to a customer service representative

EDD Debit Card Customer Service representatives can help you with the above options, plus:

  • Resolve a question about your account statement
  • Process account history requests
  • Assist with direct deposit funds transfer (s)
  • Investigate transactions
  • Process lost/stolen/damaged card reports
  • Request an emergency cash transfer

www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard options include:

  • Card activation
  • Balance inquiry
  • Transaction history
  • Direct deposit funds transfer
  • Dispute Form/Affidavit
  • ATM locator
  • PIN change
  • FAQs

21. Can I use my local Bank of America banking center for customer service on this account?

Banking centers can assist with teller Cash Access transactions and standard checking and savings accounts, but not with detailed account and balance information for the EDD Debit Card. For all other EDD Debit Card service needs, visit www.bankofamerica.com/eddcard or call the toll-free Bank of America EDD Debit Card Customer Service number at 1.866.692.9374.

22. How do I change my address on this account?

You must contact EDD to change your address on your Unemployment Insurance, Disability Insurance, or Paid Family Leave claim. You may visit www.edd.ca.gov and click “Contact EDD” or call:

  • Disability Insurance 1.800.480.3287
  • Paid Family Leave 1.877.238.4373
  • Unemployment Insurance 1.800.300.5616

EDD will notify Bank of America of the change.The EDD sends us updated addresses nightly, Sunday through Friday.

Please Note: The EDD will NOT, under any circumstances, request your personal bank account information.

23. What if I have a card that doesn’t have my name on it, and I receive a replacement card in the mail that has my name on it?

If you received a card directly from your sponsor that did not have your name on it, you may be eligible to receive a personalized upgrade card in the mail after a pre-determined number of deposits or calendar days. If you receive a personalized upgrade card in the mail, please activate the card immediately. You will have 30 days from the date of issuance to activate your new card. Once activated, your current balance will transfer to the new card and your old card will become inactive.

24. What time of day can I withdraw or make purchases with my payment?

Your payment will generally be available at the traditional opening of business on the payment date, or approximately 9 a.m. Pacific Time. After this time, you can access your payment by making purchases or withdrawing funds 24 hours a day.

25. Are there any transactions that I can make with my card that will cause a “hold” on my funds?

Since your EDD Debit Card functions just like a debit card, there are certain types of common transactions where sometimes a “hold” of an estimated amount of final payment will be placed on your account to make sure you have enough money to pay the bill. For example, at gas stations if you are paying at the pump it may cause a hold of up to $75; consider instead paying inside with the cashier and signing the receipt where no “hold” will be placed on your card. In addition, hotels, auto rental, and restaurant merchants may hold the amount of your estimated bill until final settlement of the transaction, making these funds unavailable for other purchases. These holds may take a week to remove, so keep that in mind when making these special types of transactions. Remember to always check your available balance before making a transaction.

26. If my purchase is greater than the available balance on my card, can I apply the balance toward the purchase?

If you wish to use your card to make a transaction that is greater than the then-current balance in your Account, you must tell the merchant before completing the transaction. The merchant will require payment for the excess amount by cash or some other payment method.

27. How do I sign up for mobile text and e-mail alerts?

Using mobile text or e-mail alerts can help you stay informed about activity on your CA EDD Prepaid Debit Card. Receive email and mobile alerts anytime, anywhere.

It’s easy to manage alerts. Log in to your account online and activate the alerts you’d like to receive. Select Alert Settings under Profile to add your mobile phone number or e-mail address. Select Alert Options under Profile to choose the mobile text and e-mail alerts you want to receive.

  • Choose to get notified as soon as you’ve received a new deposit. No need to call to find out if the deposit has hit your account. Activate ‘value load alert’.
  • Configure when you want to receive a low balance alert based on a specified dollar amount. Avoid being declined for insufficient funds. Activate ‘low balance alert’.
  • Always have your daily starting balance handy. Activate ‘daily balance alert’.

Bank of America does not charge for mobile text alerts. However, your mobile service provider may charge for receiving text messages on your mobile phone. Check with your service provider for details on specific fees and charges that may apply.

You are responsible for all charges and fees associated with usage of email or text messages imposed by your Internet, wireless, or cellular service provider(s).