One last tip - create a DEO-specific email folder and save EVERY email they send you. Also document every time you log in, claim weeks, or make changes to your account (with dates and screenshots if possible). If there's ever a dispute about whether you followed procedures correctly, having your own documentation can save your claim. I learned this the hard way when they claimed I missed claiming a week that I definitely claimed. Good luck with your application!

Good luck with your claim! Just wanted to add one more thing that helped me - download the DEO mobile app if you haven't already. Sometimes when the website is down or glitchy (which happens A LOT), the mobile app still works. You can claim weeks, check messages, and update info through the app. Also, if you're having trouble finding the "Request Benefit Payment" section that Bethany mentioned, it's sometimes labeled differently - look for "Claim Weeks" or "Request Benefits" depending on how the system is feeling that day. The inconsistent labeling is another Florida DEO special feature! Keep us posted on how it goes.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm going to start my reapplication tomorrow and make sure all my work search records are organized. I'll make sure to keep claiming weeks while it processes. Hopefully it goes smoothly but based on all your experiences I'm prepared for it to take some time. Really appreciate all the information!

One tip I wish someone had told me - when you reapply, double-check that your mailing address and direct deposit info are still correct in the system. During my reapplication process, somehow my address got corrupted and they were trying to mail correspondence to an incomplete address, which delayed everything by weeks. Also, if you have any old overpayment issues or anything like that from your previous benefit year, try to get those resolved before applying if possible. The system sometimes flags new applications if there are unresolved issues from the old claim. Good luck with your reapplication - the process is definitely frustrating but most people do get approved eventually!

Just wanted to follow up - did you manage to find the right section to claim the final weeks? The deadline would be approaching soon if these are truly the last weeks of eligibility.

I'm dealing with the exact same issue! Just tried to help my neighbor navigate this new system yesterday and we were both completely lost. The whole layout is so different from what we're used to. It's frustrating that they didn't send out clearer notifications about such a major change - I only found out about it when I couldn't find anything on the site! Thanks to everyone who explained where to find the 'Request Benefit Payment' section. It's really helpful to know it's under 'My Benefits' and you have to scroll down. Why do they always make these systems more complicated instead of easier?

Yes, that sounds about right. After you log in to CONNECT, on your homepage there should be a message that tells you exactly when your next claim date is. It'll say something like "Your next date to claim weeks is 07/26/2025" or whatever the exact date is for your schedule. One more tip: make sure you're answering all the questions correctly when claiming weeks. If you worked at all during a claim week (even part-time), report it accurately. If you were unable to work or refused work for any reason, be honest about it. Incorrect reporting can lead to overpayment notices later.

Dylan, glad you're getting the hang of it! Just to add one more important point - make sure you're available for work and actively seeking work during every week you claim. Even if you have job interviews lined up or think you might get hired soon, you still need to continue doing your 5 work searches per week until you actually start working again. Also, if you do get a job offer or start working (even part-time), report it immediately when you claim your weeks. Don't wait until your next claim period. The system will calculate any partial benefits you're entitled to if you're working reduced hours. One last thing - keep all your documentation (work search records, any correspondence with DEO, screenshots of your claims) for at least a year after your claim ends. Florida can audit benefits going back quite a while, and you'll want to have everything organized if they ever request it. Welcome to the unemployment system - it's confusing at first but you'll get used to the routine!

I work at a bank (not saying which one) and I can tell you that we're understaffed and overwhelmed. The hold times are crazy even from our end. My advice: be patient and kind when you do get through. We're trying our best.

I feel your frustration! I've been dealing with similar issues trying to reach unemployment services. One thing that's helped me is calling multiple times throughout the day - sometimes you get lucky and hit a less busy period. Also, if your bank has a local branch, try going in person even if they initially tell you to call. Sometimes being physically present makes them more willing to help or at least escalate your issue. Keep a detailed log of your attempts too - dates, times, how long you waited - it can be useful if you need to file a complaint later. Hang in there! 💪