Has anyone actually gotten through by calling at a specific time of day? I've heard early morning (right when they open) might work better? I'm dealing with a different issue but also can't reach anyone.

UPDATE: The DEO just released a new form specifically for 2020-2021 overpayment disputes where there's a 1099-G discrepancy. It's called the "Benefit Payment Reconciliation Request." You can find it under the "Forms and Publications" section of CONNECT. This form lets you specifically flag cases where your 1099-G doesn't match what you received. They implemented this in March 2025 because so many people were having this exact issue.

This reminds me of when my daughter lost her job at the mall during that big retail shutdown last year. She was only there for two weeks before everyone got laid off. She kept getting denied by DEO too. The whole thing is so frustrating. She ended up moving back home with us because she couldn't pay rent. Have you looked into food banks in your area? At least that could help with feeding your kids while you figure things out.

After reading through this thread, I think your best next steps are: 1) Use one of the methods suggested to actually speak with a DEO representative - either calling right at opening time or using Claimyr if you continue having trouble getting through 2) Ask specifically about alternative assistance programs you might qualify for given your childcare situation 3) Contact your county's Human Services department about emergency assistance programs - many counties have special funds for families with children 4) Document everything - your attempts to find work, childcare limitations, and communications with DEO Most importantly, don't give up after the initial rejection. Many people get denied initially but qualify after speaking with an actual representative who can consider your full situation.

One clarification to my earlier advice: For the appeal process, log into CONNECT, go to the \

Thank you for this additional information! The weird thing is I don't actually see any formal determination - my weeks just say \

When my unemployment ran out I started donating plasma twice a week. Brought in about $400/month which helped a lot with groceries. Not ideal but it was something when nothing else was coming in.

One last thought - when you're budgeting those final DEO payments, remember they're taxable income. If you didn't have taxes withheld, set aside some money for potential tax bills next year. I made that mistake and got hit with an unexpected tax bill after my benefits ended. And keep documenting EVERYTHING related to your job search. Some assistance programs want proof you're actively looking for work. Most importantly - don't lose hope. I was unemployed for almost 5 months after benefits ended, but eventually found something. It's incredibly stressful, but you will get through this.

One more thing to prepare for: expect your account to go into "pending" status during the transition between benefit years. This is normal but stressful. You'll still need to claim weeks during this time, even though payments might be delayed until your new claim is processed. If your claim gets stuck in adjudication during the transition (this happened to me), be persistent about contacting DEO. The regular phone lines are nearly impossible, so having alternative contact methods ready is essential. Also, occasionally check your CONNECT inbox and spam folder for any fact-finding questionnaires. Missing these can seriously delay your new claim processing.

just saw ur earlier reply - if u made $4800 at hotel job u shud be fine for new claim. thats over the minimum