Here's what the DEO doesn't want you to know - supervisors and claim specialists actually have QUOTAS for how many cases they resolve each day. That's why they make it so hard to reach them. I worked in a similar government system (not FL) and this is how it operates. Your best bet is: 1. Call early morning (7:30-8:30am) 2. Ask for "Tier 2 support" specifically - this is internal language they understand 3. If they say no supervisors are available, ask them to create a "call back request ticket" - these are tracked and supervisors have to respond to them 4. Get the ticket number and the agent's ID number 5. Call back the next day if you don't hear anything and reference the ticket Be extremely polite but persistent. The system is designed to wear you down so you'll give up.

OP - any luck getting through to a supervisor? I'm in the same boat and getting NOWHERE after 3 weeks!!!

I had this exact issue in February. Here's what I learned: 1) Yes, 5 work searches per week is mandatory 2) Keep DETAILED records - they can audit you years later 3) Not all activities count the same - actual job applications are best 4) If you forget one week, you might get lucky with just a warning 5) The CONNECT system will sometimes glitch and not save your work searches - take screenshots as proof

Just went through this same situation last month! Here's what worked for me: I called DEO (took about 50 tries over 3 days) and explained I misunderstood the work search requirements for my first week. They gave me a one-time "good faith" exception since I was a new claimant and genuinely didn't know. They said as long as I do my 5 activities going forward and keep good records, that first week wouldn't count against me. Also, pro tip: networking events, job fairs, and even LinkedIn messages to hiring managers can count as work search activities - not just online applications! Document everything with names, dates, and what you did. The DEO audit team is no joke in 2025.

Based on your latest comments, since your sister has worked at the campus bookstore for a year and a half plus had a summer job last year, she should definitely apply. Here's what she'll need to do: 1. Gather all employment information (dates, employer addresses, pay stubs) 2. Create an account on CONNECT if she doesn't have one already 3. Complete the initial application 4. Be prepared to submit documentation about the internship cancellation (emails, offer letter, cancellation notice) 5. Complete the required work search activities each week if her claim is approved Since she has an established work history, she might qualify for regular Reemployment Assistance (RA) through Florida DEO. The canceled internship would be considered job loss through no fault of her own. If she has trouble getting through on the DEO phone lines or needs help with her application, having someone who's successfully navigated the system can be invaluable. The DEO typically processes applications within 2-3 weeks, but it can sometimes take longer.

Just wanted to add that if your sister does apply and gets approved, she should be prepared for the weekly certification process. You have to log in every two weeks to certify that you're still unemployed and actively looking for work. Florida requires 5 work search contacts per week, and you need to keep detailed records of where you applied, when, and the contact info. Also, even if she qualifies, Florida's unemployment benefits are pretty low compared to other states - maximum is around $275/week for 12 weeks. It's better than nothing but probably won't cover much of her tuition costs. Still worth applying though if she has the work history! One more tip - if she does get benefits, she'll need to report any income from part-time work. Even small amounts can affect her weekly benefit amount, so keep track of everything.

UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at DEO this morning! Called right at 7:30am as suggested and only waited about 45 minutes. The agent confirmed my separation issue was still pending because my former employer hadn't responded to their inquiry. She escalated it to a supervisor and said they would make a determination within 48-72 hours based on my statement alone if my employer doesn't respond. Fingers crossed this gets resolved! Thanks everyone for the advice and support. This system is truly broken, but I'm hopeful I'll see some movement now.

I'm going through something similar right now - filed 3 weeks ago and still pending with the same separation issue. Reading through all these responses is both terrifying and helpful. The fact that this system is so broken that we have to rely on state representatives and third-party services just to get basic unemployment benefits is absolutely ridiculous. Emma, I'm so glad you finally got through to someone! I'm definitely trying that 7:30am call strategy tomorrow. For anyone else dealing with this nightmare, it sounds like persistence is key but we shouldn't have to jump through this many hoops just to survive while looking for work.

thank u! just checked and nothing new in my inbox yet but will keep refreshing. the rep said if approved I'll get all 9 weeks backpay at once!! hoping my claim finally moves from pending to eligible soon!!! 🤞

I'm so glad to see people sharing what actually works! I've been lurking here for weeks reading everyone's experiences while my own claim sits in adjudication hell. @c43714aed98c your update gives me hope - I'm going to try the "payment issues" route first thing tomorrow morning at 7:30am. @fa0691986852 thank you for that detailed script, I'm writing it down word for word. And @f52366f8c41d the advice about contacting state reps is something I hadn't considered. It's crazy that we have to become experts in gaming the system just to get basic help, but I really appreciate everyone sharing their hard-won knowledge. This community has been a lifesaver during this nightmare process!