To all those having trouble reaching a human at Massachusetts Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/ok4BhTU0_EI

From what I understand, Massachusetts typically allows backdating unemployment claims up to one year from the date you file, but there have been some special provisions during the pandemic. The specific deadline can vary depending on your situation and when you initially became unemployed. I'd recommend calling the DUA directly at (877) 626-6800 to get the most accurate information for your specific case, as they can review your eligibility and let you know exactly how far back you can backdate your claim.

One more thing to consider - if you're anticipating a layoff, it might be worth reaching out to MassHire (the state's workforce development system) even before you lose your job. They offer free career counseling, resume help, and job search assistance that can complement your unemployment benefits. Some of their workshops and training programs can even count toward your required job search activities once you're on unemployment. I found their services really helpful when I was between jobs last year - they have offices throughout the state and a lot of virtual options too. Getting a head start on networking and skill building while you're still employed could help shorten your time on unemployment benefits.

This is such a comprehensive thread - thank you everyone for sharing your experiences! As someone who went through the DUA system in Massachusetts last year, I can confirm a lot of what's been said here. One thing I'd add is to make sure you understand the difference between your "weekly benefit rate" and what you'll actually receive. Even if you qualify for the maximum $1,015, you might get less if you have any earnings from part-time work, pension payments, or other factors that can reduce your weekly benefit. Also, if you end up needing to appeal any DUA decisions, don't wait - you only have 10 days from the determination date to file an appeal. The appeals process can take months, so it's crucial to file within that window even if you're still gathering documentation. I learned this the hard way when I initially got denied and almost missed the deadline. The system can be frustrating but persistence pays off.

One thing that helped me was writing down all my employer info before starting the application. dates of employment, final day worked, reason for separation, gross wages for each job. having it all organized made the process way smoother

I went through this process about 6 months ago and here's what I wish someone had told me upfront: Download the DUA mobile app too - sometimes it works better than the website when the system is overloaded. Also, take screenshots of every page as you go through the application process. I had a glitch where my application seemed to disappear and having those screenshots helped prove I had submitted everything correctly. The whole process from filing to receiving first payment took about 3 weeks for me, but that was without any complications. Most importantly, don't panic if you make a small mistake - you can usually correct it later, but like others said, don't wait to file thinking you need everything perfect first.

I've been reading through all these comments and it's both frustrating and comforting to know I'm not alone in this nightmare. I just wanted to add that I finally got through last week using a combination of strategies from this thread. What worked for me was calling at exactly 10:12 AM (slightly different from the popular times), using the comma trick, and most importantly - I had my phone on speaker with the volume low so I could hear when the hold music changed. That's usually the first sign someone is about to pick up. Also, for anyone still struggling, I noticed that Tuesdays and Wednesdays seem to be slightly better days to call than Mondays or Fridays. The whole system is absolutely broken and we shouldn't have to jump through these hoops, but don't give up! Keep trying different combinations of these tips and eventually something will work. Sending patience and good vibes to everyone still fighting this battle! ✊

I've been lurking on this thread for a while and finally decided to create an account because I'm in the exact same situation as everyone else here. I've been trying to get through to MA DUA for almost 3 weeks now and it's honestly starting to affect my mental health. Reading through all these comments has been both reassuring (knowing I'm not alone) and overwhelming (seeing how broken this system really is). I'm going to try the combo strategy that @StardustSeeker and @Dmitry Petrov mentioned - calling Tuesday at 10:12 AM with the comma trick and listening for music changes. I've also reached out to my state rep's office today based on @Amina Toure's suggestion. At this point I'm willing to try anything. Thank you all for sharing your experiences and tips - this community has been more helpful than any official government resource I've found. Here's hoping we all get the help we need soon! 🤞

I'm in a very similar situation - my claim has been on hold for about 6 weeks now and it's been incredibly stressful! After reading through everyone's experiences here, I'm realizing I probably made the same mistake with unreported income. I did some house cleaning through Care.com and some small graphic design projects that I didn't think were significant enough to report. Clearly I was wrong! Going to update all my earnings info today and try that 8:05 AM calling strategy. It's such a relief to see I'm not the only one dealing with this - the whole process feels so confusing and intimidating when you're going through it alone. Thanks to everyone for sharing their stories and advice, especially about being thorough with reporting ALL income no matter how small. Fingers crossed this gets resolved soon for all of us! 🤞

Wow, reading through all these responses is both reassuring and eye-opening! I've been struggling with a similar hold situation for about 7 weeks now and was starting to feel like I was the only one going through this nightmare. It sounds like unreported income is definitely the common thread here - I did some freelance social media work for a few small businesses and some occasional pet sitting that I honestly didn't think needed to be reported since the amounts were pretty small. Clearly I need to go back and report everything! Going to spend this evening going through all my Venmo, PayPal, and bank records to make sure I catch every single payment. The 8:05 AM calling strategy that several people mentioned sounds promising too - I've been calling at random times with zero success. Thank you all for being so open about your situations and sharing such practical advice. This thread has given me hope that there's actually a path forward instead of just being stuck in limbo forever. Really appreciate this supportive community! 🙏