ESD claim stuck on 'pending' for 6 weeks after ID verification - what are my options?

same thing hapend to me last month!! stuck in pending for like 7 weeks and couldnt get anyone on the phone. ended up having to file a complaint with my state rep before anything happened. try that maybe?

The ID verification backlog is unfortunately very common right now. ESD implemented a new security system in January 2025 that's causing major delays. Here's what I recommend: 1. Keep filing your weekly claims even while pending 2. Contact your WorkSource office - sometimes they can escalate 3. Submit a formal request for escalation through eServices (use the dropdown for "Claim Status") 4. Make sure your uploaded documents are clear and match exactly what they requested One important note: if your address on your ID doesn't match your current address, that can trigger additional verification steps. Did you move recently?

I HAD THE EXACT SAME ISSUE!!!! Been dealing with ESD for 9 weeks now and my claim was stuck in ID verification hell. Called literally 30+ times and either got hung up on or told to "wait" for a specialist. The system is BROKEN and they don't care about people suffering!!

Have you tried using Claimyr to reach an ESD agent? I was in the same situation last month - stuck in verification for weeks with no way to reach anyone. I was skeptical but tried Claimyr (claimyr.com) and it actually worked - got me connected to an agent in about 20 minutes when I'd been trying for weeks on my own. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. The agent I spoke with was able to expedite my identity verification and my claim was processed within a few days.

I work with unemployment claims daily through my job. The ID verification issue is extremely common right now. Here's what most people don't know: ESD is required by law to resolve ID verification issues within 21 days, but they're currently operating with a significant backlog due to the new security system implementation. This is what I recommend to clients: 1. Contact the Technical Support line (not the regular claims line) at 855-682-0785. They're often less busy and can sometimes transfer you directly to ID verification specialists. 2. File an official escalation request using the exact phrase "Hardship due to delayed identity verification" in your message. 3. Request a formal "determination letter" regarding your identity verification. This creates a formal timeline that ESD must follow. 4. Document every contact attempt with date, time, and outcome. This will be valuable if you need to file an appeal for backdating. Also, make sure you're checking both your eServices messages AND your physical mail. Sometimes determination notices are only sent via postal mail even if you selected electronic communication.

when i had this happen i just gave up for like 3 weeks then randomly checked my account and it was approved lol. sometimes the system just takes forever for no reason. good luck man

Just following up - were you able to make any progress with your claim? The technical support line suggestion from @profile1 is excellent advice. Also, if you're still stuck, there's a lesser-known option: the ESD Office of Administrative Hearings can sometimes help with claims that have been pending for more than 30 days, even without a formal determination. You can request this by specifically mentioning "OAH assistance with delayed claim" in your eServices message.