EDD keeps dropping my calls after 1+ hour hold. Anyone else? How to actually get through?

I found a way to solve long unemployment phone wait times, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOJjMyrPy9Y

Welcome to the club, buddy. 🙄 I've been dealing with this for weeks now. It's like they're playing some sick game of phone tag, except we're the only ones tagging and they're just... gone.

I found a method that actually works to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video explaining it: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ

Have you tried calling right when they open? I've had better luck getting through first thing in the morning.

This is ridiculous. We pay taxes for this service and they can't even answer the damn phone. 😡 Someone needs to fix this broken system!

Here's what I've learned after months of dealing with this: 1. Persistence is key. Keep calling, even if it's frustrating. 2. Try different times of day. Early morning or late afternoon can sometimes be less busy. 3. Have all your information ready before you call. When you do get through, you don't want to waste time scrambling for docs. 4. Be polite to the agent when you finally reach one. It's not their fault the system is overwhelmed. 5. If you're really stuck, consider contacting your local representative. They sometimes have ways to expedite claims. 6. Join online forums or Facebook groups for your state's unemployment. Other people might have insider tips. 7. Check if your state has an online chat option. Sometimes it's easier to get through that way. Hang in there, OP. I know it's tough, but you'll get through eventually.

guys i think i figured it out. if u press 2 instead of 1 at the first menu, then 3 at the next, you get to a different queue. got through in 20 mins today!

Have you tried reaching out on Twitter? Sometimes their social media team is more responsive. Worth a shot!

I feel your pain, OP. The system is totally overwhelmed right now. Covid really exposed how unprepared they were for a crisis. Hang in there!

Pro tip: use a landline if you have one. Cell signals can be iffy and might be part of why calls are dropping.