ESD identity verification blocked - can't even start a UI claim!

This happened to me back in January! The identity verification system they implemented in 2025 is super glitchy. Try this: clear your browser cache completely, use Chrome instead of other browsers, and make sure you're using your EXACT name as it appears on your social security card (not your driver's license if they're different). Also, check if you have a credit freeze with any bureau - that can trigger the identity verification failure.

OMG i had this happen 2 me 2 weeks ago!! So annoying. I kept trying to login like 5 different times and it just kept saying the same thing. You have to call them bcuz the online system is trash. goodluck getting thru tho lol

I work with unemployment claims professionally, and this is a common issue with the new ID.me integration ESD implemented recently. Here's what you need to do: 1. Wait 24 hours - sometimes their verification system refreshes overnight 2. Try a different device completely (not just a different browser) 3. Make sure your address matches EXACTLY what's on file with the credit bureaus 4. If none of this works, you'll need to call the technical support line at 833-572-8400, which is different from the main claims line The identity verification is separate from your actual claim filing, so once you get past this hurdle, you can still backdate your claim to your last day of work.

just went through this whole mess myself! dont waste your time with all the tricks, you gotta call them directly. I used Claimyr service at claimyr.com to get through to an actual ESD agent after I tried for days on my own. They have this system that holds your place in line and calls you when an agent is available. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. It saved me so much time and frustration with this identity verification nonsense.

If you have any previous ESD correspondence or an old account, check if your SSN is entered correctly there. My husband had this EXACT issue and turns out his SSN had a typo from 3 years ago when he filed during covid. They fixed it over the phone but took like 4 days of calling nonstop. BTW once you get through this identity verification part, make sure you have your last 18 months of employment information ready including exact start/end dates and employer EINs if possible. They've gotten super strict about verification this year.

THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED TO ME IN MARCH!!! I never got it fixed online and ended up having to go IN PERSON to a WorkSource office with my physical ID, social security card, AND birth certificate. It's absolutely ridiculous they make it this difficult! I think they hope people just give up so they don't have to pay claims!!

Just wanted to follow up - if you're still having issues after trying the technical support line, you can also request identity verification through the mail. Call the main ESD number and specifically request a 'manual identity verification packet' to be mailed to you. You'll need to return copies of your ID documents, but it bypasses the online system completely. It takes longer (about 7-10 days) but is more reliable for certain situations.

UPDATE: I finally got through! After trying all your suggestions, what finally worked was using my tablet and connecting through my phone's hotspot instead of my home wifi. No idea why that made a difference, but I'm now able to start my claim! For anyone else facing this issue - try different devices AND different internet connections. Now I'm just hoping the actual claim process goes smoothly. Thanks everyone for your help!

good 4 u but now ur gonna be stuck in adjudication for like 2 months lol. thats what happened to my sister. the id verification was just the beginning of her nightmare with esd