EDD CA: How to actually talk to a real person at unemployment office? Tips needed

I found a way to solve contacting unemployment office successfully, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSnZo084cqg

Anyone else feel like we're playing a twisted game of unemployment roulette? Spin the wheel, maybe you'll get through, maybe you'll waste another day of your life on hold 🎰

Have you tried contacting your local representative? Sometimes they can help push things through or at least get you in touch with the right person.

Have you tried the trick where you press 2-4-1 as soon as the automated message starts? I've heard that can sometimes get you to a real person faster.

Here's what worked for me after weeks of trying: 1. Call exactly at 8:01 AM when they open 2. If you get the 'too many callers' message, hang up and redial immediately 3. Keep doing this until you get into the queue 4. Once in the queue, be prepared to wait for 2-3 hours It's a pain, but I finally got through using this method. Good luck!

I know this sounds crazy, but I had success by calling the Spanish line and then asking for an English speaker when I got through. The wait times seemed shorter.

I found a method that actually works! There's this site called claimyr.com that has a calling tool. It dials the phone menu, stays on hold, and waits for a live agent to pick up. Then it sends the call to your phone. It costs $20, but it totally worked for me. Here's the link: https://claimyr.com

Anyone else feel like they deserve a medal for navigating this unemployment maze? 🏅 We're all basically professional hold-music listeners at this point.

Ugh, same boat here. Its like they dont want us to get our benefits. I've heard some people have had luck using the online chat feature, but I haven't been able to get that to work either. This whole system is so broken 😡

I feel your pain, OP. The unemployment system is a total nightmare right now. I spent weeks trying to get through before I finally had any luck. Have you tried calling right when they open? That seemed to work better for me.

Hey OP and everyone, if you're still looking for ways to get through to the unemployment office, here's a suggestion that might help. Claimyr is a service that helps connect people to unemployment representatives. While it costs $20, many have found it saves time and reduces stress. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. For some, the cost is justified by the time saved, while others might not be comfortable with paying for such a service. Always be wary of any third-party service and ensure they are reputable by checking reviews and feedback. Additionally, reaching out to your local representative, as mentioned, can sometimes expedite the process if you're hitting dead ends. Good luck, and hang in there!

lol good luck. I've been trying for a month and still nothing. The whole system is a joke. Maybe we should all just camp outside their office until they help us 🏕️

Update: I tried calling first thing this morning and got through after about an hour! Thanks for all the advice, everyone. For those still struggling, don't give up!

Pro tip: if you do get through, ask for a callback number in case you get disconnected. Saved my butt when the call dropped after 2 hours on hold.

I've been dealing with this nightmare for weeks too! What finally worked for me was a combination of strategies - I called at exactly 8:00 AM (not 8:01, but right when they opened), had multiple phones going at once, and when I got the busy signal I immediately hung up and redialed. It took about 45 minutes of constant redialing but I finally got into the queue. Once you're in, DO NOT hang up no matter how long it takes. I waited 3.5 hours but it was worth it. Also, have all your paperwork ready because they move fast once you get someone on the line. Stay strong everyone - persistence really does pay off! 💪