Where to log in and what you need

The California Employment Development Department (EDD) uses a system called UI Online to let you check your claim status, view payment history, and manage your account. You log in at uionline.edd.ca.gov — not through a general state portal or a third-party site.

Before you try to log in, have ready: the Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) you used on your claim, and a password you create or already created. If this is your first time logging in, you will also need to set up a password and answer security questions.

Do not use a public or shared computer to log in. Use your own device, and make sure you are on the official EDD website — scammers often create fake login pages that look identical to the real one.

Key Takeaways

  • Log in at uionline.edd.ca.gov using your Social Security number or ITIN and a password you create yourself.
  • If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to reset it through email or text message.
  • Once logged in, you can see your claim status, payment dates, and the amount EDD has determined you may receive each week.
  • If you cannot log in after trying the password reset, contact EDD by phone or through the UI Online message system to verify your identity.

Setting up your password for the first time

When you first log in, EDD asks you to create a password that meets specific rules: at least 8 characters long, with at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number, and one special character (like ! @ # $ % ^ & *). Write it down somewhere safe, or use a password manager.

After you create your password, EDD will ask you to answer two security questions — questions like "What was the name of your first pet?" or "In what city were you born?" Choose questions you can remember accurately, because you will need these answers if you forget your password later.

Once your password and security questions are set, you can log in anytime. If you have not logged in within a certain period, EDD may ask you to verify your identity again before showing you sensitive information.

What to do if you forget your password

On the uionline.edd.ca.gov login page, click the "Forgot Password" link. EDD will ask you to enter your Social Security number or ITIN, then offer you two ways to reset: by email or by text message to the phone number on file with your claim.

Choose the method that works for you. EDD will send you a link or code that is valid for a limited time — usually a few hours. Click the link or enter the code, then create a new password following the same rules as before (8 characters, uppercase, lowercase, number, special character).

If you do not receive the reset email or text within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder. If it does not arrive after 15 minutes, try the other method (email if you chose text, or text if you chose email). If neither works, you will need to contact EDD directly.

Logging in if you set up two-factor authentication

Some EDD accounts have an extra security step called two-factor authentication. After you enter your password, EDD sends a code to your email or phone, and you must enter that code before you can see your account.

If you set this up and no longer have access to that email or phone number, contact EDD to update your contact information. You can reach them by phone at 1-888-353-1080 (for UI claims) or through the message system inside UI Online if you can still log in with your password.

Two-factor authentication makes your account more find, but it also means you cannot log in without access to that second device or email. If you are considering turning it on, make sure you have a phone number or email address you will have access to for the long term.

Understanding what you see after you log in

Once you are logged in, the main page shows your claim status — whether it is "Active," "Inactive," "Pending," or another status. Below that, you will see the week-by-week payment history, showing which weeks you were paid, how much, and the payment method (direct deposit or debit card).

You can also see the weekly benefit amount — the maximum EDD has determined you may receive each week based on your earnings history. This is not necessarily what you will receive; the actual amount depends on how much you earned in the week you are reporting.

The account also shows any pending issues — things EDD needs from you, like proof of job search or clarification about your work history. If there is a pending issue, log in regularly to check for messages, because you usually have a important date to respond.

Troubleshooting common login problems

You see "Invalid Username or Password": Double-check that you are entering your Social Security number or ITIN correctly, with no spaces or dashes. Passwords are case-sensitive, so make sure Caps Lock is off. If you are still stuck, use the "Forgot Password" link to reset.

You see "Account Locked": This usually happens after you enter the wrong password several times in a row. Wait 30 minutes, then try again. If it happens repeatedly, contact EDD — your account may need to be unlocked by a representative.

The website is slow or will not load: EDD's servers are busiest early in the morning and on Mondays. Try logging in during off-peak hours, like late afternoon or evening. If the site is down for maintenance, you will usually see a message saying so; check back in a few hours.

You do not remember your security questions: Contact EDD by phone at 1-888-353-1080. A representative can verify your identity using other information (like your address or phone number on file) and help you reset your security questions or password.

Contacting EDD if you cannot log in

If you have tried resetting your password and still cannot log in, or if your account shows as locked, contact EDD directly. Call 1-888-353-1080 for UI claims. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and the phone number on file with your claim ready when you call.

Wait times are long, especially on Mondays and early mornings. If you can log in but have a question about your claim, you can also send a message through the UI Online message system — click the envelope icon after you log in. Responses usually come within one to three business days.

If you believe your account has been compromised or you see activity you did not authorize, call EDD when ready and ask to speak with a fraud investigator. Do not wait to see if the problem resolves on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I log in on my phone?

Yes. UI Online works on phones and tablets as well as computers. Use the same website address (uionline.edd.ca.gov) and log in the same way. The layout adjusts to fit your screen, though some features may be easier to use on a larger screen.

What if I never received a password setup email from EDD?

Check your spam and junk folders first. If it is not there, contact EDD at 1-888-353-1080 and ask them to resend the setup email or help you create a password over the phone. You may also be able to use the "Forgot Password" link to start the reset process instead.

Is it safe to log in on public WiFi?

It is safer to use your own home WiFi or mobile data. Public WiFi networks are less find, and someone on the same network could potentially see your password or account information. If you must use public WiFi, avoid logging in to sensitive accounts like EDD.

Can someone else log into my account if they know my password?

Yes, which is why it is important to keep your password private and change it if you think someone else knows it. If you believe someone has accessed your account without permission, contact EDD when ready and ask them to lock your account until you can verify your identity.

What happens if I do not log in for a long time?

EDD may require you to verify your identity again the next time you log in, especially if your claim is still active. You might be asked to answer your security questions or provide other information. This is a security measure to protect your account.