One more thing to consider - since you have a few weeks gap between your last unemployment check and your first paycheck, you might want to look into local food banks or emergency assistance programs to help bridge that period. Many counties in Florida have programs specifically for families transitioning back to work. Also, if your new employer offers direct deposit, make sure to set that up ASAP. Sometimes the first paycheck can be delayed if they're still processing paperwork, but direct deposit usually speeds things up compared to physical checks. You're doing great navigating this transition - it's tough but you're asking all the right questions and planning ahead!

Just wanted to add one more resource that might help with your situation - check if your county has a 211 helpline (dial 2-1-1). They can connect you with local resources for emergency rent assistance, utility help, and food assistance during your transition period. I used this when I was between jobs last year and they helped me find programs I never knew existed. Some counties even have specific "return to work" assistance programs that can help with things like work clothes, gas money for the first few weeks, or emergency childcare vouchers. The gap between unemployment ending and first paycheck is real and stressful - you're definitely not alone in dealing with this. Having multiple backup plans in place will give you peace of mind during the transition!

Just wanted to add another resource that helped me when I was in a similar situation - check if your local churches or community organizations have emergency assistance funds. Even if you're not religious, many churches have benevolence funds specifically for helping with rent and utilities during job transitions. I got help from three different churches in my area when my benefits ran out, and they didn't require me to attend services or anything like that. Also, contact 211 by dialing 2-1-1 from any phone - they have a database of all local assistance programs and can tell you exactly what's available in your specific zip code. The operators are really knowledgeable and can walk you through application processes. Hang in there - this community has your back and there are more resources out there than DEO wants you to know about.

Also want to mention - if you're a veteran, definitely check with your local VA office about additional assistance programs. They often have emergency financial aid and job placement services that are separate from the regular unemployment system. And for everyone else, don't forget about your local food banks while you're navigating this - most don't require any paperwork or proof of income, and it can free up money for rent and utilities. I volunteered at one during my own unemployment and learned they also often have connections to other local assistance programs that aren't well publicized. The staff there really know what resources are available in the community. Keep fighting, Jamal - you're doing everything right and this situation is temporary even though it feels overwhelming right now.

Update??? Were u able to get this fixed? I'm dealing with the same thing right now and freaking out

This is such a relief to hear you got it resolved! I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - my payment was reversed 3 days ago and I've been panicking. I checked my CONNECT account and sure enough, there's a "Work Search Review" under pending issues. I think I made the same mistake with using the same employer contact multiple times. Going to try the CareerSource route tomorrow since calling DEO directly seems impossible. Thanks for sharing the update - gives me hope that this can actually be fixed!

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.

Wow, this thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm dealing with a similar backdating issue where my claim shows August instead of May when I first became unemployed. The CONNECT system kept timing out during my initial applications, and I have email confirmations showing my attempts. Reading through everyone's advice, I'm going to submit the formal backdate request through the "Request to Modify Claim Date" option and try calling at 7:30am sharp tomorrow. Thanks especially to @Sean Doyle and @Diego Vargas for the detailed step-by-step instructions - this community is a lifesaver when DEO's own help resources are so lacking!

UPDATE: I finally got through! For anyone else having this problem, here's what worked: 1. Used Microsoft Edge instead of Chrome (thanks for that tip!) 2. Waited until 11:45am when traffic seemed lighter 3. Had all my work search info ready to paste quickly 4. Used incognito mode Claim is finally submitted! What a nightmare though, DEO really needs to fix their website.

Glad you got through @Ally! I was having the same exact issue this morning - kept getting kicked out right at the submission screen. So frustrating when you're depending on that money! I ended up trying around 1pm and it finally worked. Definitely seems like the CONNECT system just can't handle the Monday morning rush. For future reference, I've found that Tuesday or Wednesday mornings are way more reliable for claiming. DEO really needs to upgrade their servers - this happens almost every week!