I'm dealing with the exact same phone disconnection issue! Been trying to call DEO for the past week and getting cut off during their automated message every single time. It's like their system is programmed to fail. What's really frustrating is that I completed my ID.me verification successfully (got the confirmation email and everything), but now my CONNECT account shows some vague "pending review" status that's been stuck for over two weeks. I can't even request my certification because the system won't let me proceed. Has anyone tried calling their local CareerSource office? I'm wondering if they can help with DEO issues or at least provide some guidance on what to do when you're completely locked out of the system. At this point I'm willing to drive somewhere in person if it means talking to an actual human being who can help! The timing couldn't be worse - my savings are almost gone and I have bills piling up. This whole system feels designed to make people give up on their legitimate benefits.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - the DEO phone system and ID.me verification issues are absolutely maddening right now. I went through something similar last month and it took me over a week of constant calling to finally get through. A few things that helped me: First, definitely try the early morning approach everyone mentioned (7:30 AM sharp). Second, when you do get through, immediately ask for your case to be escalated to a supervisor if the first agent seems unsure about anything. Third, keep detailed notes of every call - date, time, agent name if they give it, and exactly what they tell you. This helped when I had to call back multiple times because different agents were giving me conflicting information. Also, double-check that your name appears EXACTLY the same on all your documents. My account got locked because my ID.me had my full middle name but my original application only had my middle initial. Something that small can trigger their system to flag your account as having "insufficient documentation." Hang in there - I know it feels impossible but people do eventually get through and get their accounts fixed. The system is broken but persistence does pay off eventually.

An update on my earlier comment - while Claimyr helped me get through quickly, I should clarify that even with the Level 2 escalation, it took about 5 business days for my adjudication to be completed. The key difference was that I got confirmation the escalation was actually submitted (got a reference number) and was able to check the status without spending another full day on the phone. Also, double-check the reason your claim is in adjudication if you can. Mine was stuck because of an employer dispute over separation reason (they coded it as "quit" when I was laid off). If that's your situation too, you might want to upload any documentation you have that proves your side (termination notice, texts from manager, etc.) to your CONNECT account.

I'm so sorry you're going through this - the DEO system is absolutely brutal! I went through something similar last year where I had 9 weeks stuck in adjudication. Here's what I learned from my experience: 1. When you call back in 3 days, don't just accept "we'll escalate it" - ask for the escalation reference number and the name of the supervisor it's being escalated to. Get specifics! 2. Document everything - dates you called, agent names if they give them, reference numbers, what they told you. This becomes crucial if you need to escalate further. 3. Since you have your termination letter showing you were laid off, upload it to CONNECT ASAP. Sometimes adjudication gets stuck simply because they're waiting for documentation that proves your separation reason. 4. Try calling first thing at 7:30am when they open - I found early morning calls had shorter wait times than calling later in the day. The financial hardship angle that others mentioned really does work. Be specific about your rent situation and mention you're at risk of eviction. They have emergency protocols for people in your situation. Hang in there - it's frustrating but most people do eventually get their claims resolved. The system is designed to wear you down but don't give up!

Check if you have any pending fact-finding or identity verification requirements. Sometimes when you file a new claim while an old one is still in the system, it triggers additional verification steps. Look in the "Determination, Pending Issues and Decision Summary" section of CONNECT. That might explain why it's still pending and showing both claims.

I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! Had an old PEUC claim from 2021 that kept showing up when I filed my new regular unemployment claim. It was really confusing at first. What I learned is that CONNECT doesn't automatically hide or archive old claims - they just stay there in your account history. The important thing is to make sure you're always working with your active claim (the new RA one). Like others mentioned, there should be a way to select which claim you're viewing/managing. Don't stress too much about the old one being visible - it won't interfere with your new benefits as long as you're claiming weeks under the correct current claim. The pending status is totally normal for the first 1-2 weeks while they process everything.

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.

I'm so sorry you're going through this Emma - the Florida unemployment system is absolutely brutal. I went through something similar last year and it took 8 weeks to get my first payment. The separation adjudication issue is super common but they make it nearly impossible to get help. A few things that worked for me: - Like others said, calling right at 7:30am is your best bet - When you do get through, ask specifically to speak with a "claims examiner" or "adjudicator" - regular phone agents can't resolve separation issues - Document EVERYTHING - screenshot your pending issues, save confirmation numbers from calls, etc. - Keep claiming your weeks no matter what - you'll get backpay once it's resolved The state rep route really does work too. I was skeptical but my friend got results in less than a week after contacting theirs. It's ridiculous that we have to go to elected officials just to get basic unemployment benefits, but whatever works at this point. Hang in there - I know it feels hopeless but you WILL get through this. The system is designed to wear you down but don't let them win!

For everyone following this thread, here's a clarification on the ID.me verification process with DEO: 1. Complete the ID.me verification separately from the CONNECT system first 2. After successful ID.me verification, DEO still needs to link that verification to your CONNECT account 3. This linking process is what often causes delays - it's NOT automatic 4. For fastest resolution, email DEO.Verify@deo.myflorida.com AND contact them by phone 5. CareerSource offices can sometimes help, but not all locations have the same capabilities The most important thing is documenting every contact attempt you make. If you end up needing to appeal anything, having records of your attempts to resolve the issue will help your case tremendously.

Any updates on your situation? Were you able to get your account verified? The email route worked for my cousin recently but it still took about a week for them to respond.