


Ask the community...
update: I just checked CONNECT again and mine shows 'pending resolution' too now. I swear it didn't say that earlier. This system is so glitchy
For everyone dealing with this issue, here's what usually happens with these holds: 1. Simple availability questions (like doctor appointments) typically get resolved in 3-8 days if you don't contact them 2. If you can reach an agent, they can often remove the hold same-day 3. When resolved, you'll receive all back payments at once 4. Your CONNECT inbox will receive a determination letter explaining the resolution If you do call, make sure to have your claimant ID ready and clearly explain that you were fully available for work despite the doctor appointment. Under Florida rules, routine appointments don't make you unavailable for work unless they would prevent you from accepting suitable employment.
I finally got through to a DEO agent this morning! She confirmed exactly what you said - the single answer about my doctor appointment triggered an automatic hold. She said since it was a 2-hour appointment and didn't affect my ability to accept work, she removed the hold and my payment should process within 48 hours. Thank you everyone for your help!
@OP - To answer your question, the adjudicator asked me about the circumstances of my previous disqualification (it was a job I quit for health reasons without proper documentation). I explained that the situation was resolved years ago and that I'd worked and paid taxes for 3 years since then. She said that old disqualifications aren't supposed to carry forward if you've had substantial employment since then (apparently 1.5+ years of work should clear it). She said it was clearly a system error and removed it. Probably took 10 minutes once I explained everything. Good luck tomorrow!!
Thank you for these details! My wife's situation is very similar - her 2018 disqualification was because she found a new job within 2 weeks of applying (so she only collected for 2 weeks). She's worked continuously from 2018 until this February. Hopefully we can get an adjudicator who understands the system as well as yours did!
You're right that Florida doesn't have state income tax, but unemployment benefits are still subject to FEDERAL income tax. That's what the 10% withholding is for - federal taxes only. So the DEO is withholding money to send to the IRS, not to the state of Florida.
Geoff Richards
Let's be honest - NOBODY at DEO actually loses their job over poor performance. I filed FORMAL COMPLAINTS with names and dates of representatives who gave me completely wrong information that caused my benefits to be delayed for months. Know what happened? NOTHING!!! The entire "accountability" system is a JOKE designed to LOOK like they care while doing ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!! The only thing that works is public shame and media attention. Contact every news station, newspaper, and social media channel. The moment a reporter starts asking questions, MIRACULOUSLY claims get resolved!!!
0 coins
Laila Fury
•This reminds me - there's a Facebook group called "Florida Unemployment Issues" with like 20k members where people share their DEO horror stories. They actually have some news reporters who monitor the group and sometimes pick up stories when they're particularly bad. Might be worth checking out.
0 coins
Hazel Garcia
Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I've been taking notes on everything suggested. I've already emailed my state rep and senator this morning with all my claim details. I'm going to try calling at 7:30am tomorrow using the specific phrases about tier 2 agents and hardship escalation. I'm also going to email the Inspector General with my documentation. I've been keeping a log of all calls and conflicting information I've received, so at least I have that ready. I'm seriously considering that Claimyr service too since it sounds like it might actually get me through to someone who can help. Will update once I make any progress. Seems like there's plenty of responsibility to go around but nobody willing to take it...
0 coins
Nasira Ibanez
•Good approach. One last tip: when you do connect with someone helpful (and eventually you will), get their direct extension or employee ID if possible. Some agents are genuinely good at navigating the system and can be valuable contacts for follow-up. Best of luck, and please do update the thread with your results to help others.
0 coins