Thanks everyone for your explanations and suggestions. I feel at least less confused now, even if the news isn't great. I'm going to try to get through to someone at DEO using that Claimyr service just to confirm what you're all saying, appeal my short-term disability denial, and check out the local assistance programs mentioned. Really appreciate the help during this stressful time.

I'm really sorry you're going through this tough situation. As others have mentioned, Florida's unemployment system is pretty strict about the "able and available to work" requirement. One thing I'd add - if you haven't already, make sure to document everything about your short-term disability denial. Sometimes these denials are based on missing paperwork or technicalities that can be corrected on appeal. Also, when you do have your surgery and are cleared to return to work, you might be able to reapply for unemployment at that point if your job isn't available. The timing is tricky, but it's worth understanding all your options. Hang in there!

anybody else notice how DEO is quick to process overpayment notices but sooooooo sloooow to process backdates??? funny how that works!!!!

I went through this exact same nightmare last year! My backdate request sat in limbo for 4 months before I finally got it resolved. Here's what ultimately worked for me: 1. Document EVERYTHING - keep records of every call, message, and interaction with DEO including dates and reference numbers 2. File a complaint with the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity's Inspector General at DEO.InspectorGeneral@deo.myflorida.com - they investigate cases where DEO isn't following proper procedures 3. Contact your local Legal Aid office - many have unemployment assistance programs and can advocate for you at no cost 4. If all else fails, file a writ of mandamus in small claims court to force DEO to process your claim (sounds scary but it's actually pretty straightforward) The squeaky wheel gets the grease with DEO unfortunately. You have to make yourself heard through multiple channels. Don't give up - you're entitled to those benefits! Also keep claiming your current weeks while waiting for the backdate so you don't lose any additional benefits.

Update: I tried the phone system this morning and it worked! Took about 15 minutes to go through all the questions, but my weeks are now claimed. Thanks everyone for your help! I've saved all these suggestions for future reference in case I have internet problems again.

That's awesome that you got it working! For anyone else reading this thread, I'd also recommend having your PIN written down somewhere safe before calling. I learned the hard way that if you enter it wrong too many times, they'll lock your account and then you have to wait to speak with an agent to unlock it. The phone system is definitely a lifesaver when the website is acting up though!

I've been using Cash App for my DEO payments for about 4 months now and it's been mostly reliable. The timing is pretty consistent - usually shows up within 2-3 business days after claiming, same as most banks. One tip: make sure you screenshot your routing and account numbers from the Cash App banking section before entering them in CONNECT. I've seen people make typos and then have to wait weeks to fix payment issues with DEO. The main downside is customer service if something goes wrong, but honestly DEO's customer service isn't great either so it's kind of a wash. If you're really worried about fees, I'd also suggest looking into Chime or other online banks that don't charge monthly fees but have better support than Cash App.

I switched to Cash App for my DEO payments about 2 months ago after my bank started charging me $12/month maintenance fees. Overall it's been working fine - deposits come through in 2-3 days just like everyone else is saying. A few things I learned: - Make sure your Cash App account is fully verified before switching (ID, SSN, etc.) - The routing number is always 073923033 but your account number is unique to you - First payment took 4 days but every one after has been exactly 2 business days - You can set up notifications so you know immediately when it hits The biggest downside is definitely the customer service issue others mentioned. When I had a question about a deposit, it took forever to get help. But honestly, for saving $144/year in bank fees, it's been worth it for me. Just triple-check those account numbers when you enter them in CONNECT!

i had my claim stuck in adjudication for 5 weeks with those same flags. turns out they needed additional proof that i was let go and not fired for cause. had to get a letter from my former boss. call them and ask specifically what theyre waiting for, dont just wait!!

I'm in a similar situation - been waiting 3 weeks on adjudication with "employment status" flags. Reading through these comments has been really helpful, especially learning about the 2024 ID.me settlement (which explains what my coworker was probably talking about). For anyone else dealing with adjudication delays, it sounds like the key takeaway is to call and ask specifically what additional documentation they need rather than just waiting. The system clearly doesn't communicate well about what's actually holding up our claims. @Diego, definitely try calling tomorrow like others suggested. Even if you use a service like Claimyr or call directly, the important thing is getting a human to look at your specific case and tell you exactly what they're waiting for.