Desperate to reach ESD agent - been calling for 2 weeks nonstop

The ESD phone system is a NIGHTMARE!!!! I spent 3 weeks trying to get through last month for my adjudication issue. It's ridiculous how they expect people to wait with no income while they make it impossible to talk to anyone. I started calling at exactly 7:59am and hitting redial non-stop. Took me about 30 tries each morning but eventually got through around day 4 of doing this. Good luck!!

I work at WorkSource (not ESD directly) and we hear this frustration every day. For identity verification specifically, have you tried uploading your documents through the secure document upload in eServices? That sometimes resolves ID issues without needing to speak to someone. Also, be sure you're calling 833-572-8400 which is the main claims center. The trick is persistence - some people have better luck calling on Wednesdays and Thursdays when call volumes are slightly lower.

lol good luck getting anyone on the phone... my cousin ended up driving 3 hours to an actual office cuz he couldnt get thru on the phones for like 2 months. system is broken af

After spending weeks trying to get through the ESD phone lines with no luck, I tried using Claimyr (claimyr.com) and actually got through to ESD in about 15 minutes. You can see how it works at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. It saved my sanity when I was dealing with a similar identity verification issue. The agent I spoke with was able to verify my documents on the spot and my claim was processed the next day.

I use the callback feature every time. Don't waste time sitting on hold. If they offer callback, TAKE IT! I got a call back within about 4 hours last month and they fixed my issue. Just make sure ur phone is charged and near you all day.

For identity verification issues specifically, you should try emailing the specialized unit at uiidverify@esd.wa.gov with your full name, last 4 of SSN, and claim ID in the subject line. Include a brief description of your issue and the documents you've already uploaded. This team is separate from the general claims agents and sometimes can resolve ID verification faster than waiting for phone contact. While waiting, continue filing your weekly claims without interruption even if they're not getting paid yet - this is critical!

I was in the same boat last month with my identity verification. I tried for 3 weeks calling the regular number, then I saw someone mention Claimyr on here. I was skeptical but desperate so I tried it - and it actually worked! Got through to ESD in about 20 minutes when I had been trying for weeks. The agent told me they could see my documents but they hadn't been reviewed yet. She put a note in my file and it was approved 2 days later. Sometimes you just need to actually talk to someone to get things moving.

my claim was stuck for identity stuff too and turns out it was cuz i had a fraud alert on my credit from like 2 yrs ago that i forgot about!!! might wanna check if u have anything like that

Just as a follow-up: whatever method you use to contact ESD, make sure you have your claim ID number, the last 4 of your SSN, and know exactly what documents you've already submitted and when. Being organized with this information makes the process go much faster once you do reach someone. Also, verify that your contact information is correct in the system - sometimes notices get sent but people don't receive them due to outdated contact info.