Can't get through to ESD on phone - not even put on hold anymore
I'm at my wit's end trying to reach ESD! I've been calling 5-6 times a day for the past WEEK with just ONE simple question about my claim. The automated system just says 'all agents are busy' and then hangs up on me instead of putting me in a queue. Not even getting the option to hold anymore! Has their phone system changed? I tried different times of day (early morning, lunch time, afternoon) but it's always the same recorded message then disconnect. Is there some secret trick to actually speaking with a human being at ESD these days?? My bills are piling up and I just need ONE question answered to move forward!
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Kai Rivera
I was in the same boat last month, couldn't get through AT ALL for 3 weeks straight. Felt like I was losing my mind! Finally tried Claimyr (claimyr.com) after seeing someone mention it here. It actually worked - their system calls ESD and holds your place in line, then calls you when an agent is ready. Saved me hours of frustration. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. Worth checking out if you're desperate to get your question answered.
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Lucas Turner
•Thank you! Never heard of this before - does it really work? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point.
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Anna Stewart
its the new normal, ESD doesn't have enuf staff anymore. i gave up calling and just went to the worksource center in person. had to wait 2 hrs but atleast got answers
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Lucas Turner
•There's a WorkSource near me but their website says they don't handle claim questions, only job search stuff. Did you just show up anyway and they helped you?
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Layla Sanders
This is EXACTLY what's happening to everyone! The ESD phone system is completely broken and they know it but don't care. I've filed 3 complaints about it and never heard back. Classic government efficiency 🙄 Been dealing with them for years and it just keeps getting worse. They're probably understaffed on purpose to discourage people from collecting benefits they deserve.
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Morgan Washington
•While I understand your frustration, ESD actually announced staffing reductions last quarter as emergency pandemic funding expired. They're operating with about 35% fewer agents than during 2020-2022. The best approach now is to use the eServices messaging system for simple questions - responses typically come within 3-5 business days. For urgent matters, try calling right when they open at 8:00 AM, but be prepared to redial continuously for the first 30-45 minutes.
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Kaylee Cook
Have you tried accessing your claim through the eServices portal? Many questions can be answered by looking at your claim details online. Look for the "Notices/Letters" section - sometimes there's information there about what's happening with your claim. Also, check the "Decisions" tab to see if there are any issues that might explain why you need to speak with an agent. If you absolutely need to speak with someone, try calling at exactly 8:00am when they open. Also, Thursdays are sometimes less busy than other days of the week based on my experience.
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Lucas Turner
•Yes, I've checked every tab in eServices multiple times. My question is about job search requirements after relocating to a different county - the online info is confusing and contradicting itself. I've definitely tried the 8am trick (set alarms on two devices to make sure I call right at opening). No luck!
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Oliver Alexander
whats ur question? maybe someone here knows the answer and u dont even need to call them?
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Lucas Turner
•Good point! I moved from King County to Whatcom County last month. I updated my address in the system, but now I'm confused about job search requirements. Do I need to register with the WorkSource in my new county? The website says yes but then also says registration is automatic when you file a claim (which I did in King County). I don't want to get disqualified for missing something!
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Lara Woods
•When you move to a new county, you should definitely register with your local WorkSource office. While your initial registration happened automatically when you filed, relocating to a new area requires updating your WorkSource registration. Visit the WorkSource in Whatcom County in person with your ID and they'll update your registration. This ensures your job search activities align with available opportunities in your new area. Make sure to document this visit as one of your job search activities for the week!
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Kai Rivera
Update: I used Claimyr yesterday after seeing it mentioned here and actually got through to an ESD rep in about 40 minutes! Didn't have to sit by my phone either - they just called me when they had an agent. My question about relocating was answered and they updated something in my file too. Just wanted to let everyone know it worked for me.
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Layla Sanders
•How much did that cost though? Seems wrong we have to PAY to access a government service our taxes already fund!!!
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Anna Stewart
i had this same problem back in februarry. so annoying!!! the whole system is a joke
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