I'm going through the exact same nightmare right now! Been stuck in ID.me verification hell for over a week. What's really frustrating is that the error messages are so vague - just "verification unsuccessful" with zero explanation of what's actually wrong. One thing I discovered that might help - if you're using Chrome, try switching to Firefox or Safari. I read somewhere that ID.me has compatibility issues with certain browser versions. Also, make sure you're not using any browser extensions that might interfere with the camera or photo upload. Another tip from my research: make sure your full legal name in your DEO account matches EXACTLY what's on your ID, including middle names or initials. Even tiny discrepancies can cause rejections. I'm planning to try the desktop approach tomorrow morning with natural lighting like others suggested. This whole system is absolutely broken and it's devastating that our basic survival depends on getting through this mess. Hang in there - from what I'm reading here, persistence eventually pays off for most people!

I went through this exact same ID.me nightmare about 6 months ago and it was absolutely devastating. After failing verification probably 15+ times, here's what finally worked for me: 1. Used a different device entirely - borrowed my neighbor's iPad instead of my phone 2. Made sure my face was completely centered in the selfie frame 3. Held my ID at a slight angle to avoid any glare from overhead lights 4. Most importantly - I discovered my CONNECT account had my nickname "Mike" but my driver's license shows "Michael". Once I updated my DEO profile to match my legal name exactly, it worked on the first try. The video verification is a complete joke - I waited 6 hours one day and never got connected. Don't waste your time with that unless you literally have nothing else to do. Also, once you do get verified, check your CONNECT account every few hours because sometimes the system doesn't update automatically. I had to call DEO and specifically ask them to "refresh" my verification status. The whole system is designed to make people give up, but don't let them win. Your benefits are rightfully yours. Keep pushing through - you WILL get there eventually!

This is excellent advice. I tend to get emotional about this whole situation because it's been so stressful, but you're right - I need to focus on the technical and regulatory aspects. I'll practice making my points clearly before any hearing.

I've been following this thread and wanted to add something that might help with your appeal and hearing preparation. Since you mentioned being hospitalized for 91 days with COVID, you should also look into whether Florida has any provisions for "good cause" exceptions to standard eligibility timelines due to medical emergencies. When I had a similar (though much shorter) medical issue that prevented me from filing claims, I found that DEO has internal policies about medical incapacity that aren't well-publicized. You'll want to specifically ask about Florida Administrative Code Rule 73B-11.011 which covers situations where claimants couldn't comply with requirements due to circumstances beyond their control. Also, make sure to get a detailed printout of your entire claim history from CONNECT before your hearing - including all the lock/unlock dates, failed ID.me attempts, and system error messages. The hearing officer needs to see the pattern of technical failures that prevented you from accessing benefits you were entitled to. One last tip: if you do get through to a DEO agent via Claimyr or your state rep, ask them to put detailed notes in your file explaining the system failures. These notes become part of your official record and can be referenced during appeals.

I heard they're updating the system soon. Maybe that'll fix some of these issues? 🤞

Just wanted to share my experience - I finally got through after 3 weeks of trying! What worked for me was calling right at 7:45 AM (15 minutes before they officially open) and staying on the line even when it said "all representatives are busy." I know it sounds crazy, but I literally called 47 times one day before getting through. The rep was actually really helpful once I got connected. For those still struggling, don't give up! Also, make sure you have your PIN, SSN, and claim confirmation number ready. The whole call took about 25 minutes once I got through. Hang in there everyone! 💪

UPDATE: Finally got through!!! After trying the direct line that @helpful_advisor suggested plus contacting my state rep's office, my claim was unlocked yesterday! Had to speak with a claims specialist who explained there was a "system flag" on my account related to previous employment verification. They removed the flag manually and now I can access everything. Already claimed all my back weeks and should receive payment within 2-3 business days. THANK YOU everyone for your help - I would have never figured this out without your suggestions!

Congratulations on finally getting this resolved! Your experience is exactly why this community is so valuable - people helping people navigate this broken system. For anyone else reading this thread who's still stuck with a locked claim, here's what seems to work based on all the responses: 1) Try the direct DEO line with specific menu options that @helpful_advisor provided, 2) Contact your state representative's office for escalation, 3) Document everything in case you need to file an appeal. The key takeaway is DON'T GIVE UP - these issues can be resolved, but it takes persistence and knowing the right channels. Thanks for updating us with your success story!

Has anyone tried the Florida Senate office for help with DEO issues? My coworker said they resolved her 3-month stuck claim in less than a week after she contacted her state senator's office. Might be worth a shot if the state rep doesn't help.

Update: I tried calling at 7:29am today and actually got through after being on hold for about 45 minutes! The agent confirmed my claim WAS assigned to an adjudicator on February 1st, but said they're currently working on claims from mid-January. She estimated it would be another 2-3 weeks before mine is reviewed. I also emailed the urgent address and plan to contact my state rep tomorrow. Thanks everyone for your advice - at least I have some actual information now instead of being completely in the dark.