Can't reach a real ESD agent through the 6022 number - alternative phone options?

same problem here!! that stupid bot is the WORST. i tried pressing 0 repeatedly but it just disconnects me lol

The main ESD claims center number is 800-318-6022, which is what you're calling. There's also 833-572-8400 for the virtual assistant (which will likely be just as frustrating), and 855-682-0785 which is specifically for questions about paid family leave. Unfortunately, ESD has deliberately made it difficult to reach a person directly due to call volume. A few tips that sometimes work: 1. Call exactly at 8:00 AM when they open 2. Try selecting the option for "making a new claim" even if you're not - sometimes this routes to actual people faster 3. When asked what you're calling about, say "payment issue" as this is often prioritized 4. Be prepared to wait - even when you get in queue, it can be 1-2+ hours

i just got through yesterday! trick is call at 7:58am and wait for them to open. also when they ask why ur calling say "payment not received" not "claim status" cuz payment issues get priority. took me 6 tries but finally worked

I've been through this exact situation and finally found a solution through Claimyr. It's a service that basically holds your place in line with ESD and calls you back when they connect with an agent. I was super skeptical at first, but after trying for almost two weeks to get through on my own, I gave it a shot and got connected to an ESD rep within 2 hours. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 Their website is claimyr.com if you want to check it out. Honestly, it saved me so much stress and time compared to sitting on hold all day or fighting with that automated system.

The ENTIRE system is deliberately designed to prevent you from getting help!!! I spent 3 MONTHS trying to resolve an adjudication issue and couldn't get through to anyone. Meanwhile they expect us to answer THEIR calls within 5 minutes or our claims get denied?? The hypocrisy is unbelievable! I finally filed a complaint with my state representative's office and magically got a call back from ESD the next day. If you can't get through on the phone, try contacting your local rep's constituent services. They can sometimes cut through the red tape.

Here's what has consistently worked for me when dealing with ESD phone systems: 1. Call the 6022 number at 7:55am and wait for the system to come online at 8:00am sharp 2. When prompted, select option 2 for claim questions 3. Then select option 1 for payment issues 4. When asked to describe your issue, clearly state "missing payment" (this triggers their priority routing) 5. Have your claim ID, last 4 of SSN, and a list of specific questions ready The average wait time is still 45-90 minutes, but at least you'll be in the queue. Don't hang up once you're waiting - they do eventually answer. Also, make sure you've checked your ESD account messages first, as they might have already sent you information about your claim status that could answer your questions.

One more tip: after you finally get through to someone, ask for their direct extension number. Many agents will give you their direct line if you've had an ongoing issue, which lets you bypass the main system in the future. Also, be sure to document everything - the date/time of your call, who you spoke with, and what they told you. This can be extremely helpful if you need to escalate your claim later.

UPDATE: I finally got through! I used the tips about calling at 7:58am and selecting the payment issue option. Still had to wait 67 minutes on hold, but eventually spoke with someone who was actually really helpful. My claim was stuck in ID verification (even though I uploaded all my documents weeks ago), and they were able to push it through to the next step. Thank you everyone for your help! For anyone facing the same issue, persistence is key - and those early morning calls really do make a difference.