Based on everything you've shared, it sounds like you're dealing with three common DEO issues simultaneously: 1. An unresolved employment separation adjudication issue 2. Communication breakdowns between different DEO departments 3. Agents making promises they can't fulfill I would recommend pursuing multiple resolution paths simultaneously: - Use the direct adjudication email address mentioned earlier - Contact your state representative as suggested - Continue calling but specifically request to speak with an adjudicator - Check your CONNECT inbox daily for any fact-finding questionnaires When you do reach someone, ask them to check if your former employer has responded to the separation inquiry. If they haven't responded within 10 business days, DEO is supposed to make a determination based solely on your information. Many agents don't know or don't enforce this policy, which is why claims stay stuck. Also, keep claiming your weeks even while waiting for resolution. Once adjudication is complete, you'll only be paid for properly claimed weeks.

I've been dealing with DEO for unemployment issues myself and wanted to share something that might help. Since you've confirmed you have a pending adjudication issue, you should know that there's actually a specific timeframe DEO is supposed to follow. According to their own policies, they have 21 days to complete adjudication once all information is received. If your employer hasn't responded to their inquiry within 10 business days, they're supposed to make a determination based on your information alone. The problem is that many regular agents either don't know this or don't have the authority to enforce it. When you call, don't just ask to speak with "someone who can help" - specifically use the phrase "I need to speak with a Level 2 adjudicator about my employment separation determination that's been pending for over 60 days." This uses their internal terminology and makes it harder for them to brush you off. Also, document everything. Keep a log of every call - date, time, agent name if they give it, what they promised, and what the outcome was. If you end up having to escalate further or file complaints, having this documentation will be crucial. Hang in there - I know how frustrating and financially devastating this process can be, but once it's resolved you'll get all your back pay. The system is broken but persistence usually pays off eventually.

wait did you file your claim in 2025? because i think the rules changed this year. my career source advisor told me that starting in january they're being more strict about the work search requirements. they're actually checking now and will deny benefits if you don't have proof

UPDATE: I finally got through to DEO this morning! The agent was actually really understanding and helped add my work search activities to my claim. She said my payment might be delayed by 2-3 days but should still process this week. She also advised me to keep much better records of my job searches going forward and make sure I'm doing the full 5 required activities each week. Thanks everyone for your help!

Update: I called DEO this morning (took about 20 tries to get through) and finally spoke with someone who confirmed there are no extensions available. She did help me claim my very last week though, which I didn't realize was still available. So at least I'll get one more payment. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions! I've applied for SNAP benefits and will be reaching out to my new employer about starting a bit earlier if possible.

I'm glad you were able to get that confirmation and claim your final week! It's frustrating how difficult it is just to get basic information from DEO. For anyone else reading this thread who might be in a similar situation, I'd also suggest checking with local churches and community organizations - many have emergency assistance funds for people facing temporary hardship between jobs. United Way's 211 service (dial 2-1-1) can connect you with local resources too. The gap between benefits ending and new employment starting is really tough, but there are sometimes small pockets of help available if you know where to look. Wishing you the best with your new job!

Thanks everyone for the replies! I'm going to keep claiming weeks even with $0 balance (makes sense to keep the record going), and I'll check out CareerSource tomorrow. I've applied for SNAP already so hopefully that helps bridge the gap. I definitely won't be doing anything sketchy that could get me in trouble - not worth the risk! I might try that Claimyr service to get through to DEO just to confirm everything about my account status. Really appreciate all the advice!

Hey Avery! I'm in almost the exact same situation - my balance will hit $0 next week but my benefit year doesn't end until May. This thread has been super helpful! Just wanted to add that you should also screenshot or print your CONNECT account showing your benefit year end date and weekly benefit amount before your balance hits zero. I learned this the hard way when I had issues with my account last year and needed to prove what my original claim details were. The system sometimes glitches when benefits are exhausted and having that documentation saved me a lot of headaches. Good luck with the job search - we got this!

After trying the state rep route and still having issues, I finally got through to a claims adjudicator who explained exactly what was wrong. My separation reason was coded incorrectly (said I quit when I was actually laid off). Once they corrected that, my payments processed within 48 hours. If you do try the Claimyr route I mentioned, make sure to specifically ask for a claims adjudicator when you get through, not just a regular agent.

@LunarEclipse I feel your pain! I went through something similar last year - 10 weeks of pending status and only got 2 payments before finding work. Here's what finally worked for me: I sent a detailed email to both my state representative AND state senator's offices on the same day, including my claimant ID, timeline, and how the delay was affecting me financially. Within 3 days, I got calls from both offices saying they'd contacted DEO on my behalf. My payments started processing within a week after that. The key is to be polite but firm about the urgency - mention your upcoming start date and that you need this resolved ASAP. Also, definitely check that CONNECT inbox someone mentioned - mine had a separation verification form I'd missed for weeks! Don't give up on your backpay even after you start working - they still owe you that money and you have every right to it. Good luck!