ESD phone lines constantly busy - can't get through since 7:59 AM

welcome to esdh*ll lol. been like this since forever. they dont answer phones anymore its all a big scam

I know exactly how frustrating this is. I was in the same situation back in January with my adjudication stuck for 5 weeks. The ESD phone system is completely overwhelmed and has been for years. Here's what worked for me: 1) Keep sending messages through your eServices account every 3-4 days, 2) Be very specific about your situation in each message, and 3) Try calling at exactly 3:55pm - sometimes they have fewer calls right before closing. Also, contact your state representative's office - they often have special channels to help constituents with ESD issues.

I had the SAME EXACT PROBLEM last month!!!! It's ridiculous how they expect us to wait with no income. I tried calling for TWO WEEKS straight and never got through once. Their system is completely broken and nobody seems to care that people are suffering!!!

I had success using Claimyr when I was in this exact situation last month. It's a service that basically waits on hold for you and then calls you when they get an ESD agent on the line. Cost me a bit but saved me literally days of frustration. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. My adjudication was resolved within 2 days after finally speaking with someone.

Yes, it worked for me. I got through to an actual ESD agent on my first try after spending nearly two weeks trying to call on my own. They told me they had a simple question about my work history that was holding up my claim, and resolved it during that call. My payment was released three days later.

I work with unemployment claimants regularly, and while I understand the frustration, there are a few things you should know about ESD's current situation: 1. Their staffing is down nearly 40% from 2023 levels due to budget cuts 2. The current adjudication backlog is approximately 6-8 weeks 3. Weekly claim issues take priority over initial claims 4. Send a detailed message through eServices AND try calling on Tuesday or Wednesday (typically lower volume days) between 10-11am If your situation is causing severe financial hardship, you can request an expedited review through your eServices account - look for the "Hardship Request" form. These are reviewed within 5-7 business days.

When my claim was stuck back in February I ended up emailing my state representative and she had a staff member who helped get things moving. Took about a week but they have special contacts at ESD. Google "(your county) state representative" and you should find their contact info.

hey i just got thru to esd this morning! try this: call the main number but then press 2 for spanish (even if u dont speak it) then 0 right away. got me to a person in like 15 mins and they spoke english anyway lol

UPDATE: I tried the Spanish line trick and it actually worked!!! Got through to someone after about 20 minutes on hold. They said my adjudication was waiting on employer verification and they sent a follow-up request. Should be resolved within 7-10 days. THANK YOU everyone for all the suggestions!!!