Through the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, many people are finding it difficult to get a hold of Paid Family Leave (PFL). The agency primarily responsible for this, the Employment Development Department (EDD), has been inundated with calls and requests, creating a bottleneck effect. Even though they have made some changes to streamline the process, it still can be challenging to get through to an actual representative.

Reaching out via the EDD website is one potential way to get answers to your questions, but this may not always provide the specific information you need. Through their online chat usually, you can connect with a virtual assistant but usually can’t get a hold of a live person to speak with.

Another option is to try and get through to EDD support by phone. You will usually face long wait times, but this still remains to be one of the best ways to connect with an EDD representative. The number to call is (800) 480-3287 for English language support, and service is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Outreach via email and mail is also possible, but these methods can also experience delays due to high volumes.

To expedite your request or claim with the EDD, make sure you have all relevant information and documentation available. This might include your Social Security number, wage and employer information, and details regarding your unemployment or disability. Prompt and accurate provision of this information can help speed up the processing time of your claim significantly.

Whether you’re trying to get in touch with EDD by phone, email, or mail, patience is key. It’s clear that they’re dealing with a larger than normal volume of requests, so don’t get frustrated if you don’t get a response right away. Continue to follow up on your claim or question.

Through the chaos, being patient and persistent can eventually lead you to speak to an EDD representative who can assist you with your PFL concerns. However, be prepared that it may take several attempts and a significant amount of time on hold.

If you’re still struggling to get a hold of Paid Family Leave, you can always visit eddcaller.com for additional resources and tips on how to reach the EDD. The website provides valuable guidance and support to help navigate the busy system and help you get in touch with the right department to help with your specific needs.