BTW - Make ABSOLUTELY SURE your identity verification with ID.me is current! Sometimes these redeterminations trigger another identity check. My account got locked during redetermination because my ID.me verification had expired and I didn't even know it!

my coworker told me his status changed to redtermination too and he got worried but nothing ever happened actually and then a few weeks later they just sent him an email saying everything was fine so maybe its just like a random audit thing they do?

@Profile5 - Yes, it really does work. I was skeptical too, but I was desperate after trying to call DEO for days. The DEO agent I spoke with was able to confirm everything about my claim status and when I'd get paid. Much better than stressing for days wondering what's happening.

To quickly address your other questions: 1. The Way2Go card customer service number is 1-833-888-2775 2. Unfortunately, you can't access the funds until you have the physical card 3. Yes, you'll need to claim your second week (which will be your first payable week) 4. The waiting week policy returned after the pandemic emergency period ended 5. You can call Way2Go to check if your card has been mailed and request expedited shipping This is frustrating, but hang in there - once you get past the initial waiting week and card arrival, future payments should be much more predictable.

This reminds me of when my daughter lost her job at the mall during that big retail shutdown last year. She was only there for two weeks before everyone got laid off. She kept getting denied by DEO too. The whole thing is so frustrating. She ended up moving back home with us because she couldn't pay rent. Have you looked into food banks in your area? At least that could help with feeding your kids while you figure things out.

After reading through this thread, I think your best next steps are: 1) Use one of the methods suggested to actually speak with a DEO representative - either calling right at opening time or using Claimyr if you continue having trouble getting through 2) Ask specifically about alternative assistance programs you might qualify for given your childcare situation 3) Contact your county's Human Services department about emergency assistance programs - many counties have special funds for families with children 4) Document everything - your attempts to find work, childcare limitations, and communications with DEO Most importantly, don't give up after the initial rejection. Many people get denied initially but qualify after speaking with an actual representative who can consider your full situation.

One clarification to my earlier advice: For the appeal process, log into CONNECT, go to the \

Thank you for this additional information! The weird thing is I don't actually see any formal determination - my weeks just say \

Just to give you some hope - I had 5 weeks go into adjudication back in January after claiming back weeks. I called DEO, explained my situation, and the representative was able to expedite my case. Got all payments within 10 days after calling. Sometimes you just need to find the right agent who's willing to help. Persistence is key with Florida's unemployment system.

I used the regular DEO number (800-297-0586). There's no special adjudication department you can call directly. But here's a tip - when you do get through, politely ask if you're speaking with a Tier 2 agent. If not, ask if they can transfer you to one. Tier 2 agents have more authority to actually help with adjudication issues vs. the first-level representatives who often just tell you to wait.

I recommend checking with your county's Community Action Agency as well. Many have emergency rent and utility assistance programs that can provide 1-3 months of help when you're in transition between benefits ending and finding employment. \n\nAlso important - if you have any skills that could translate to gig work or freelancing, register on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr immediately. It takes time to build a profile, but even picking up small jobs can help bridge the gap.\n\nThe key is to apply for ALL possible assistance programs simultaneously, as some have waiting periods of 30-45 days for processing. Don't wait until you're completely out of unemployment benefits to start these applications.

Thank you so much for this advice. I hadn't thought about the Community Action Agency option. Going to look that up right now and start applications for everything I can find.

UPDATE: I managed to get through to DEO this morning! Called right at 7:30am and only waited about 45 minutes. The agent confirmed they can see my multiple application attempts from June in their system. She submitted a backdating request for me and said it should be processed within 7-10 business days. She recommended I continue claiming weeks as normal while waiting for the backdating to be approved. Feeling hopeful now!

For anyone dealing with backdating issues: Florida state law actually requires DEO to accept backdating requests when there's evidence of system failures or other good cause reasons. Per Florida Administrative Code 73B-11.013, they must consider technical difficulties as valid reasons for late filing. Keep this regulation in mind if they initially deny your request - you can cite it in your appeal.

When my unemployment ran out I started donating plasma twice a week. Brought in about $400/month which helped a lot with groceries. Not ideal but it was something when nothing else was coming in.

One last thought - when you're budgeting those final DEO payments, remember they're taxable income. If you didn't have taxes withheld, set aside some money for potential tax bills next year. I made that mistake and got hit with an unexpected tax bill after my benefits ended. And keep documenting EVERYTHING related to your job search. Some assistance programs want proof you're actively looking for work. Most importantly - don't lose hope. I was unemployed for almost 5 months after benefits ended, but eventually found something. It's incredibly stressful, but you will get through this.

I had the exact same issue last month! Claimed on Thursday, saw it was processed in CONNECT but no payment until Monday. I freaked out too but it's just the weekend delay. DEO does their part quick but the banking system takes time. Also FYI - if there's a holiday, add another day to the processing time. I learned that the hard way during Presidents Day weekend.

does anyone know if changing your direct deposit info causes delays? i just switched from way2go to my credit union

So did anyone else notice that DEO is asking for way more verification documents than before? When this happened to me they wanted my driver's license AND passport AND a utility bill. Last time I only needed my driver's license. Is this happening to everyone?

UPDATE: Just wanted to let everyone know what happened. I completed the ID verification again yesterday morning, and this morning I checked my CONNECT account and everything is back to normal! I was able to claim my weeks without any issues. The payment is now showing as processed. Thanks everyone for your help and advice!