ESD phone lines impossible - called at 8:00 AM but system said 'high volume' immediately

Ugh, ESD phone system is a complete disaster!! I had the EXACT same experience last month. Called at 7:59:59 and still got the 'high volume' message by 8:00:30. It's like they have 2 phone lines for the entire state!

I had good luck calling on Wednesday at like 3:30pm for some reason. I think everyone tries first thing in the morning. Also, select the option for the employer line and then when you get a person explain you're a claimant - sometimes they'll transfer you instead of making you call back.

Have you tried Claimyr? I was in the same boat - couldn't get through for two weeks straight trying all different times. My neighbor told me about this service that basically waits on hold for you and calls when they get an agent. I was skeptical but it actually worked! The website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. Was a lifesaver for me when I needed to fix my job search requirements issue.

this is y i gave up on claiming benefits last time. the whole system is designed to make ppl quit trying. u get the same recording no matter when u call or which menu options u pick. if they dont want 2 help us fine just say it instead of pretending they have a working system.

I called exactly 72 times last Thursday before getting through. Not exaggerating, I literally kept count. Started at 8am, finally got a person at 1:46pm. Completely ridiculous system. When I finally spoke to someone, they told me they're severely understaffed and the phone system can only handle a certain number of calls in queue at once. So even though they're open until 4pm, they reach max capacity within seconds of opening. My issue took 4 minutes to resolve once I actually talked to someone.

Here's what actually works based on my experience as a frequent ESD caller: 1. Call at 8:00am SHARP (not 7:55 - the system will just say they're closed) 2. If you get the high volume message, hang up and immediately redial 3. Keep doing this for about 20-25 minutes straight 4. The system occasionally resets around 8:20-8:25am and you might get through Alternatively, try calling at 3:30pm on Tuesdays or Wednesdays when volume tends to decrease slightly. When you do get through: 1. Have your claim ID ready 2. Be very specific about your issue 3. Write down the agent's name and ID number 4. Ask for a direct callback number if possible The system is frustrating but persistence does eventually pay off. Good luck!

My sister works for DSHS (not ESD but similar phone systems) and she said what happens is their phone system can only handle like 75 calls in queue at once. So at 8:00am they get like 500+ calls all hitting at exactly the same time, and once those first 75 get in, everyone else gets the high volume message. Some days all queue spots fill in under 10 seconds. She recommended trying at random times during the day because occasionally people get through when others hang up. Also Thursdays tend to be slightly better for some reason.

Have you tried the technical support line instead of the claims line? Sometimes the technical support agents can help with basic claim issues or at least transfer you to someone who can. Their queue usually isn't as bad. Also, I've had success with the Spanish line (if you speak any Spanish) and then asking for English assistance once connected. Not ideal but sometimes works in desperate situations.