ESD PFMLA callback number not working - getting 'no longer in use' message

Same thing happened to me last week!! I got a call from a PFMLA specialist who left a msg saying they needed more info about my bonding leave claim. Called back THREE TIMES and kept getting that stupid recording about the number not being in use anymore. Super annoying when ur trying to get ur benefits approved. Did u try calling the main PFMLA number? That's what I ended up doing.

This is actually a common issue with ESD's phone system right now. They're transitioning between call center platforms and some of the individual agent numbers aren't properly forwarding. When a specialist tries to call you, the system shows them as calling from their direct extension, but those extensions aren't always accessible from outside the system. Your best bet is to call the main PFMLA number (833-717-2273) and reference the date and time you received the call. The agent should be able to see notes in your file about why they were trying to contact you.

the esd phone system is a complete JOKE!! i've been trying to sort out both my regular UI and pfmla claims for WEEKS and either get disconnected, transferred to nobody, or sent to voicemails that nobody ever checks. its like they DONT WANT us to actually get our benefits!!!! 😡😡😡

If you need to reach ESD quickly, I'd recommend trying Claimyr (claimyr.com). I was in a similar situation with my PFMLA claim and was getting nowhere with callbacks. Claimyr got me connected to an actual ESD agent in about 25 minutes instead of waiting on hold for hours. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. Definitely worth it when you're dealing with time-sensitive benefits like pre-surgery approval.

This might not be related to your specific issue, but i want to make sure you know that PFMLA and unemployment are actually different programs managed by ESD. I see people mix them up sometimes. PFMLA is for when you need medical leave or family leave while unemployment is for when you lose your job. They have different phone numbers and different application processes. Just making sure you're calling the right department for your situation!

i had this exact issue in january!!! so frustrating! what worked for me was emailing them through the secure message center on the paidleave.wa.gov website. it took about 3 days but someone actually responded and scheduled a call with me at a specific time. way better than playing phone tag with broken numbers.

Just a quick update on ESD's current situation - they recently announced they're experiencing higher than normal call volumes due to some system updates that occurred in March 2025. According to their website, the best times to call are Wednesdays and Thursdays between 8-9am or after 4pm. Mondays are absolutely the worst. Also, if you need to submit additional documentation for your PFMLA claim, you can now upload it directly through the portal rather than waiting to speak with someone.

When this happened to me with my unemployment claim (different from PFMLA I know but same department), I ended up having to go to the WorkSource office in person to get help. Sometimes the in-person option is the only way to cut through all the phone system nonsense. Not sure if that helps with PFMLA specifically though.

UPDATE: I finally got through! For anyone dealing with this same issue in the future - I tried the email method through the secure portal AND called the main number this morning at 8:05am. Only had to wait about 30 minutes! Turns out they were trying to reach me because they needed clarification on the dates of my medical leave. The agent was able to see notes from the previous person who called me. All sorted now and my claim should be processed within 10 business days. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!