How to speak to a Washington ESD unemployment agent - can't get through

Thanks! I've been calling 833-572-8400 - is that the right one? And do you know if there's a specific time that works better?

That's the right number. Try calling exactly at 8:00 AM when they open, sometimes there's a small window before the rush hits.

It just says 'claim under review' with no other details. Been like that for 8 days now and I can't figure out what triggered it.

8 days is getting long for a simple review. You might need to speak to someone to see what documentation they need.

Never heard of that before. How does it work exactly? Is it legit or just another scam?

From what I understand, you go to claimyr.com and they basically handle the calling process for you. My coworker said she got connected to an agent in like 20 minutes instead of waiting hours.

I was skeptical about Claimyr too but honestly after spending 6 hours on hold over two days, I tried it and got through same day. Worth checking out when you're desperate.

3 months?? That's terrifying. What kind of issues are you dealing with?

Started with an overpayment notice that was wrong, then my appeals got mixed up, now half my weekly claims are stuck in limbo. It's a nightmare.

Good point! I didn't think about getting a reference number. What should I ask for specifically?

Ask for the agent's name, their employee ID if they'll give it, and request a case number or reference number for your call. Write down everything they tell you.

I sent a message through the portal 5 days ago and haven't heard anything back yet. Starting to think they don't actually read those.

They do read them eventually but it can take up to 10 business days. Still might be worth sending another one explaining your situation.

That's actually not a bad idea. I always assumed lunch would be busier but maybe not. I'll try tomorrow.

Yeah, counterintuitive but it worked for me once. Keep trying different times to see if you can find a pattern.

Smart thinking. I should probably write out exactly what I want to ask too since I'll probably be nervous when I finally get through.

Definitely! Write down your questions in order of importance. Sometimes they'll rush you off the call so lead with the most critical stuff.

That's exactly what I'm worried about. Did you eventually get it sorted out? What ended up working?

eventually yeah but it was a mess. ended up getting my state rep involved which helped move things along. might be worth trying if you can't get through soon

Ok you're convincing me to try it. Is there a cost involved or anything sketchy about it?

I didn't want to mention pricing since I don't remember exactly, but check their site at claimyr.com. Nothing sketchy though - they just handle the calling part for you.

I used Claimyr too after seeing it mentioned here. Honestly worth it when you're stuck like this. Better than losing sleep over hold music.

This is like preparing for concert tickets! I'll set my alarm and have my coffee ready. Thanks for the specific timing.

Ha! Yeah it's ridiculous that we have to strategize just to talk to our own government agency. But desperate times...

Really? I always hang up immediately when I hear that busy signal. I'll try waiting next time.

Yeah, give it like 10-15 seconds. Sometimes the system is just slow to connect. Can't hurt to try.

Alright, that's three people now who've had success with it. I think I'm convinced. My mental health is worth more than whatever they charge.

Exactly! Your time and stress level have value too. Plus you can keep trying the regular way while they're working on getting you through.

Good reminder! I've been calling during work hours but good to know weekends are pointless.

Interesting idea. I'm not really on social media much but might be worth creating an account just for this.

yeah i had to do that once when they messed up my address change. got a response within 24 hours after weeks of calling

Thanks, I tend to be too polite sometimes. I need to remember that this is my money and I have a right to get help.

Exactly! You paid into the system, you deserve to have your questions answered properly. Don't let them brush you off.

That's my plan now. Try the regular way for a couple more days and if no luck, I'll try Claimyr. At least I have options.

Good plan. Hope you get through soon either way. This whole situation is stressful enough without the phone runaround.

Smart advice. I've been keeping notes but I should be more systematic about it.

Yeah, date and time stamps for everything. Shows you've been trying to resolve the issue in good faith.

Thanks everyone! This thread has been super helpful. I feel like I actually have a plan now instead of just randomly calling and hoping.

That's what this community is for! Keep us posted on how it goes.

Definitely will! I'll post an update once I finally talk to someone. Fingers crossed it's soon.