One more thing to note - if you're on Extended Benefits or in a DEO-approved training program, different rules might apply. Also, some claimants may qualify for exemptions from work search requirements under specific circumstances (like if you have a verifiable job return date within 8 weeks). If you think you might qualify for an exemption, you should document your situation thoroughly and be prepared to explain during any potential review of your claim. The safest approach is to complete and record your work searches anyway unless you've received explicit confirmation of a waiver from DEO.

I went through this exact same situation a few weeks ago! Here's what worked for me: I called DEO first thing in the morning (around 7:30 AM) and actually got through after about 45 minutes on hold. The representative was understanding and let me submit my work search activities via email for the weeks I had already claimed without them. They gave me a specific email address and format to use. I had to list each job application with: company name, position title, date applied, contact method (online/email/in-person), and any reference numbers from the applications. Even though I hadn't been keeping perfect records, I was able to reconstruct most of it from my email sent folder and browser history. The key is to be proactive about fixing it rather than waiting and hoping they don't notice. My payments resumed normally once they processed the additional information. Good luck getting through to them - persistence really pays off with DEO!

After using Claimyr to get through to DEO, ask specifically for a "claim escalation" and mention the 5-month timeframe. According to Florida regulations, investigations should typically be completed within 90 days unless there are exceptional circumstances. The agent can put in a special request to the adjudication supervisor for claims that exceed that timeframe. Be polite but firm about needing this escalation due to the extreme hardship the delay is causing.

Any luck with the representative or getting through to DEO yet? I'm invested in your situation now and hoping you get resolution soon!

Hey OP, what state are you in? The process can vary a lot depending on where you are.

unpopular opinion: maybe try looking for a job instead of waiting for a handout? 🤷‍♂️

One last tip: When you do get through to DEO, specifically ask them to check if your claim has a 'quarterly wage review flag' or if it's in the 'monetary reconsideration queue.' Those are the two most common reasons backdated claims get delayed, and sometimes they won't volunteer this information unless you specifically ask. If either of those are the case, request that they expedite the review since you've already been waiting 3+ weeks.

I went through the exact same situation last year with backdated claims from December to February. Three weeks is definitely frustrating but unfortunately pretty normal for backdated claims, especially when crossing quarters like yours. The good news is that 'PROCESSED' status with no pending determinations usually means you're in the system correctly and it's just working through their backlog. One thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of all my claim weeks and when I submitted them - it made the conversation much smoother when I finally got through to a specialist. Also, don't panic if it takes another week or two. I know bills are stressful but the money will come once it processes, and it'll be retroactive to your original claim date. The 7:30am Monday call strategy that Kara mentioned really does work better than other times. I got through on my second try doing that. Hang in there!

One other option worth considering - Florida has the "No Fee Identification Card Program" if you're unemployed and need an ID for job seeking. They also have the "Employ Florida Marketplace" which sometimes lists employers willing to hire and train simultaneously. If you've exhausted your job search and can't get into a training program quickly, you might qualify for Reemployment Assistance (RA) benefits while you continue looking. The application process is through CONNECT on the DEO website. You'd need to meet regular work search requirements (5 work searches per week) and claim weeks on time. That could at least provide some income while you navigate the training options or find an employer offering on-the-job training.

I went through a similar struggle about 8 months ago and here's what worked for me. First, definitely apply for the interstate unemployment claim since you worked in Georgia - that money will help while you figure out training. For the WIOA program, I'd suggest calling multiple CareerSource locations in your area. Each office has different funding availability and some are more helpful than others. When I called, I specifically asked to speak with their "WIOA eligibility specialist" rather than general intake. Also, don't overlook community colleges - they often have their own workforce development grants separate from DEO. Valencia College and other state colleges sometimes have quick certification programs (8-16 weeks) with financial aid options. One more thing - if you're open to it, look into apprenticeship programs through the Florida Department of Education. They're in healthcare, IT, and skilled trades. Some are paid apprenticeships where you earn while learning. Much faster than waiting for DEO funding that might never come. Good luck! The system is frustrating but there are ways through it if you keep pushing.