Yes, you can transfer money from your EDD card to your bank account, but the method depends on which card you have and which bank you use

The Employment Development Department issues debit cards through two different providers: Bank of America (for most recipients) and Fiserv (for some older accounts). Both cards allow you to move money to an external bank account, though the process and any fees involved differ between them. The transfer typically takes one to three business days, and you can usually set it up online, by phone, or through an ATM.

The main reason to transfer is to avoid fees. EDD cards charge you for out-of-network ATM withdrawals, balance inquiries at some ATMs, and replacement cards. Your own bank account usually has no such charges, especially if you maintain a minimum balance or use direct deposit. Moving your money once it arrives on the EDD card eliminates these costs over time.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America cardholders can transfer money online through their BankAmericard portal, by phone at 1-866-692-9374, or at any Bank of America ATM at no charge.
  • Fiserv cardholders can transfer through the Fiserv website or mobile app, or by calling 1-855-328-2677, with transfer times of one to three business days.
  • Transfers to your own bank account are free on both cards, but you need your bank's routing number and your account number to complete the transfer.
  • Withdrawing cash at an out-of-network ATM costs money, so transferring to your bank account is cheaper if you need to access your funds regularly.

How to transfer from a Bank of America EDD card

If you have a Bank of America card, you have three ways to move money. The easiest is online: log into your BankAmericard account at eddcard.com, select "Transfer Funds," choose your destination bank account, enter the amount, and confirm. The transfer posts within one to three business days at no cost.

You can also call 1-866-692-9374 and speak to a representative who will walk you through the transfer over the phone. Have your bank's routing number and your account number ready. A third option is to visit any Bank of America ATM, insert your EDD card, select "Transfers," and follow the on-screen prompts to send money to your bank account. This method is instant if your bank is linked to the ATM network, or it may take one business day if it is not.

Before your first transfer, you must register your destination bank account in the BankAmericard system. This is a one-time step. Log in, go to "Manage Accounts," and add your bank's name, routing number, and your account number. Bank of America will verify the account, which usually takes one business day.

How to transfer from a Fiserv EDD card

Fiserv cardholders can transfer through the Fiserv website at mybenefitscard.com or through the mobile app. Log in with your PIN, select "Transfer Funds," enter your bank's routing number and your account number, choose the amount, and submit. The transfer takes one to three business days and costs nothing.

You can also call Fiserv customer service at 1-855-328-2677 to request a transfer by phone. Have your bank account information ready. Unlike Bank of America, Fiserv does not offer ATM-based transfers, so online or phone are your only options.

As with Bank of America, you must add your bank account to the Fiserv system before you can transfer. This is done in the "Manage Accounts" section of the website or app and takes about one business day to verify.

What information you need before you transfer

Gather these details before you start: your EDD card number and PIN, your bank's nine-digit routing number, and your bank account number. Your routing number appears on the bottom left of any check you have from that account, or you can call your bank and ask. Your account number is on the check as well, or in your online banking portal.

Do not transfer to someone else's account. The account must be in your name, or the receiving bank will reject the transfer and it will bounce back to your EDD card after a few days. If you need to move money to a joint account, contact your bank first to confirm they will accept a transfer to an account with multiple owners.

Fees and timing for transfers

Transfers from your EDD card to your own bank account are free on both Bank of America and Fiserv cards. You will not be charged by the EDD system or by either card provider. Your receiving bank may charge you a fee for receiving an external transfer, but most banks do not—check your account agreement or call your bank if you are unsure.

Transfers typically take one to three business days. Weekends and federal holidays do not count as business days, so a transfer you request on Friday afternoon may not arrive until Tuesday. If you need the money urgently, withdrawing cash at an in-network ATM (usually free for Bank of America cardholders at Bank of America ATMs) is faster, though you then have to deposit it yourself.

Why you might want to keep money on your EDD card instead

The EDD card is useful if you do not have a bank account or if you are waiting for a new account to open. It also works as a backup if your bank account is frozen or if you are having trouble with your bank. Some people keep a small amount on the EDD card for emergencies and transfer the rest to their bank account.

However, the card charges you for most transactions outside the Bank of America or Fiserv network. Out-of-network ATM withdrawals cost $1.50 to $2.50 per transaction. Balance inquiries at some ATMs cost 50 cents. Replacement cards cost $10. If you use your card frequently, these fees add up quickly, making a bank account the cheaper choice.

What to do if your transfer fails or takes too long

If a transfer does not arrive after four business days, contact your card provider. Bank of America cardholders call 1-866-692-9374; Fiserv cardholders call 1-855-328-2677. Have your transfer confirmation number ready if you have one. The representative will trace the transfer and tell you whether it is still in progress or whether it was rejected by your bank.

Transfers are usually rejected because the account number or routing number was entered incorrectly, or because the account is not in your name. If this happens, the money returns to your EDD card within one to three business days. Verify your bank account information and try again, or call your bank to confirm they have the account set up correctly to receive external transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. EDD card transfers only go to bank accounts registered in your name. If you need to send money to someone else, withdraw cash from your EDD card and have them deposit it, or transfer to your own account first and then send it to them through your bank's bill pay or transfer service.

Do I have to pay taxes on money I transfer from my EDD card?

No. Transferring money from your EDD card to your bank account is not a taxable event. The money was already reported to the IRS when you received it on your EDD card. Moving it between your own accounts does not create new tax liability.

What if I do not know my bank's routing number?

Call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card or check, and ask for your routing number. You can also find it online by searching "[your bank name] routing number" along with your state. The routing number is always nine digits and is specific to the branch or region where your account is held.

Can I set up automatic transfers from my EDD card to my bank account?

Bank of America and Fiserv do not offer automatic recurring transfers from EDD cards. You must request each transfer manually through the website, app, phone, or ATM. However, you can set a reminder on your phone to transfer money on the same day each week or month.

Is there a limit to how much I can transfer at once?

Bank of America and Fiserv do not publish a single-transfer limit, but most banks cap transfers at $10,000 per day or per transaction for security reasons. If you need to transfer more than that, contact your card provider or your bank to ask about higher limits, or split the transfer across multiple days.