ESD phone nightmare - any alternative numbers to bypass 'high call volume' messages?

try calling at exactly 8:00 am thats how i got through

The system is completely broken!! I tried for TWO WEEKS last month before I finally got through. And then they transferred me twice and I got disconnected anyway. It's absolutely RIDICULOUS how they expect people to survive when you can't even speak to someone about your claim!!

For standby status issues specifically, you might want to try the employer line at 360-902-9500. Sometimes they can help claimants too or transfer you to someone who can. Also, have you tried contacting them through your eServices account? Click on the 'Send a message' option and specifically mention you need help with a standby status denial that was employer-initiated. Make sure to include your full name, last 4 of SSN, and the dates of your standby period in the message. They're sometimes faster to respond there than by phone.

I was having the same problem last month when my claim got stuck in adjudication. What worked for me was using Claimyr - it's this service that basically waits on hold for you and then calls you when they get through to an ESD agent. Totally saved me after trying for days on my own. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. It was especially helpful for getting my standby status sorted out because I needed to explain my specific situation to an actual person.

have you tried the technical support number instead? sometimes you can get thru there and then ask them to transfer you to claims

I feel your pain! One thing that might help - did your employer file the standby request or did you? If they filed it, have your HR department contact ESD directly about the denial. Sometimes they have special employer channels. If you filed it yourself, you might need to appeal the denial properly through the online system rather than just trying to call. There's a specific appeals process for standby denials, and you only have a limited window to file it.

my sister works at a call center and she says best time to call is tuesday around 2pm

For your specific situation with standby status, make sure you understand why it was denied. Common reasons include: 1. The temporary layoff exceeds the maximum standby period (now 8 weeks in 2025) 2. Your employer didn't properly verify their intent to rehire you 3. You didn't meet the minimum hours worked in your base year If your factory will reopen in 6 weeks, you should qualify as long as you've worked enough hours. When you do reach someone, specifically ask for a standby adjudicator review. In the meantime, make sure you're completing your 3 job search activities each week while waiting for resolution.

Update on my earlier comment - I just remembered that after using Claimyr to get through, the ESD agent told me they actually prioritize standby issues differently than regular claims. When you do get through, make sure to immediately mention it's about a standby denial, as they may be able to transfer you to a specialized queue. The agent told me standby issues get priority because they're time-sensitive with the return-to-work date looming.

One more thing to try while you're waiting to get through on the phone - you can also contact your state representative's office. They often have constituent services staff who can help with unemployment issues and sometimes have direct channels to ESD. Just go to the Washington State Legislature website to find your district and representative. I've seen this work for several people with urgent claim issues.