EDD Extension: Tips for Getting Through and Extending Benefits After Exhaustion

am i the only 1 who thinks this whole system is rigged against us? like, why make it so hard to get help when we're already struggling? smh 🤦‍♂️

LPT: If u cant get thru on the phone, try reaching out on Twitter. Sometimes they respond faster there. Worth a shot! 🤷‍♀️

pro tip: if u get through and they say they cant help, hang up and call again. different agents have different levels of knowledge/willingness to help. dont give up!

unpopular opinion: maybe its time to consider moving to a state with better job opportunities? i know its not easy, but sometimes you gotta go where the work is. just a thought.

Has anyone tried reaching out to their local representatives? I emailed my congressman about my unemployment issues and their office actually helped expedite my case. Worth a shot!

Hey OP, don't forget to check if you're eligible for any other types of assistance while you're waiting for the unemployment extension. Food banks, rental assistance, utility bill help - there's a lot out there if you know where to look. Stay strong! 💪

Yo, this might sound crazy, but has anyone tried faxing their extension request? I did it out of desperation and got a response in 2 days. Apparently their fax line isn't as swamped as the phones. Just an idea! 🤷‍♂️

guys i think i figured out the secret to getting through on the phone. call at exactly 3:47 PM. idk why but i always get through around that time. maybe they're changing shifts or something? worth a try!

PSA: Be careful about what info you share when calling unemployment. There's been a rise in scam calls lately. Never give out your full SSN over the phone!

ngl, this whole situation has me seriously considering a career change. anyone else? maybe we should start a thread for job ideas or career pivots.

Hot take: The unemployment system is deliberately complicated to discourage people from using it. Change my mind. 🤔

Claimyr can be a real game-changer if you're finding it impossible to reach someone at the unemployment office. While the service does come with a $20 fee, users have reported positive experiences in terms of drastically reduced wait times and less stress in reaching an agent. It's definitely worth considering if you're at your wit's end and can afford it. However, some might find paying to speak to a government service unfair or too costly. In these cases, free resources like social media outreach, local representative assistance, or faxing (as suggested above) might be worth exploring before turning to a paid service. Remember, it's crucial to weigh the cost against the potential benefits, especially during tough financial times.

Here's a script I used that worked for me: "Hi, my name is [Your Name]. I'm calling about extending my unemployment benefits. My current benefits are about to expire, but I'm still actively looking for work. Due to [reason - e.g., industry downturn], I haven't been able to secure a job yet. Can you please guide me through the process of extending my benefits? Is there any additional documentation I need to provide?" Remember to have your claim number and dates ready. Good luck!

Listen up, everyone. I've been through this rodeo before and here's what you need to know: 1. Document EVERYTHING. Every call, every letter, every email. You might need it later. 2. Be persistent but polite. The person on the other end of the line is probably overworked and underpaid too. 3. Know your rights. Read up on the unemployment laws in your state. Knowledge is power. 4. Have a backup plan. Look into gig work, part-time jobs, or even volunteering to build skills while you're job hunting. 5. Take care of your mental health. This process is stressful AF. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you're struggling. Remember, this situation is temporary. We're all gonna get through this together. Stay strong, fam! 💪

Have you considered gig work while you're waiting for an extension? It might not be ideal, but it could help tide you over. I started doing DoorDash and it's been a lifesaver.

I feel ya, buddy. The unemployment system is a total mess rn. I've been trying to get an extension for weeks. Here's what worked for me: 1. Be persistent. Call every day if you have to. 2. Have all your docs ready before the call. 3. Be polite but firm with the agent. 4. Explain your situation clearly and why you need the extension. Good luck! 🍀

Hey, I found a way to actually 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 the link: https://claimyr.com

ATTENTION EVERYONE! 🚨 There's a new extension program that just got approved last week. It's not well advertised yet. When you call, specifically ask about the "PEUC Tier 2 Extension". Not all agents know about it, so if one says you're not eligible, try calling again. Hope this helps someone!

Guys, I hate to be that person, but have we considered protesting? Like, physically showing up at the unemployment office? Maybe if enough of us make noise, they'll have to listen and fix this broken system.

Ugh, I'm in the same boat. It's so frustrating! I've heard that if you call right when they open, you have a better chance of getting through. Also, make sure you're eligible for an extension before you waste hours on hold. Check their website for the requirements.

I've been dealing with this for MONTHS and I'm at my wit's end. Called 127 times yesterday (yes, I counted) and couldn't get through. This system is a joke. Anyone know if there's a class action lawsuit we can join? This is ridiculous.