Hey, I found a way to actually get someone on the phone! I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video explaining it: https://youtu.be/rqRJnqEdkoI

Update: I finally got through! Turns out there was a glitch in their system and my interview got marked as completed even though it never happened. They're rescheduling me for next week. Thanks everyone for your advice and support!

Has anyone else noticed that the DHS phone system seems to be getting worse? I swear it used to be easier to get through to a human.

Hang in there, OP. We've all been in the same boat. The system is broken, but don't give up. Your benefits are important and worth fighting for. 💪

have u tried emailing them? sometimes that works better than calling

This might sound crazy, but have you tried reaching out on social media? Some agencies actually respond pretty quick on Twitter or Facebook. Worth a shot! 🤷‍♂️

Does anyone know if they're still doing interviews over the phone or have they gone back to in-person? I've got one coming up next month and I'm not sure what to expect.

pro tip: if u get denied, appeal! i got denied first time but won my appeal. dont give up!

PSA: Don't forget to report any changes in your situation ASAP! I didn't report a small raise and almost lost my benefits. Learn from my mistake, folks!

does anyone know if they ask about cryptocurrency? i have a little bitcoin but idk if i need to mention it

lol welcome to unemployment hell. where the rules are made up and your sanity doesn't matter 🤡

Have you tried reaching out to your local representative? They sometimes have connections that can help speed things up. Worth a shot!

Listen up, folks. I've been dealing with SNAP for years, and here's what I've learned: 1. Persistence is key. Keep calling, even if it feels hopeless. 2. Document EVERYTHING. Every call, every person you talk to, every piece of paper you submit. 3. Use multiple methods: phone, email, in-person visits. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. 4. If possible, get a case worker assigned to you. They can be your point of contact. 5. Know your rights. Read up on SNAP policies so you can advocate for yourself. 6. Be polite but firm. The people on the other end are often overworked and underpaid. 7. If all else fails, contact your local legal aid. They might be able to help. Remember, you're not alone in this. The system sucks, but we're all in this together. Don't give up!

Ugh, the SNAP office is the worst. I swear they're understaffed on purpose. Have you tried emailing them? Sometimes that works better than calling.

I found a way to actually get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/rqRJnqEdkoI

Pro tip: if you can, try to schedule your interview for earlier in the week. In my experience, they're less busy and the wait times are shorter. Also, have a pen and paper ready to jot down any important info they give you. Good luck with your interview!

lmao good luck. EBT office is a joke. been trying to renew for 3 months now. might as well be talking to a brick wall 🤡

Does anyone know if the renewal deadlines have been extended due to all these issues? I'm worried mine will expire before I can get through.

Pro tip: Always pay with a credit card for stuff like this. It's way easier to dispute charges if something goes wrong.

Update: I called customer service (took forever to get through 😫) and they explained that the priority fee isn't refundable. Kinda annoying but at least now I know. Thanks for all the suggestions everyone!