How to speak with Washington ESD unemployment agent - can't get through on phone

It's so frustrating! I don't understand why they make it so impossible to reach someone when we really need help.

The phone system is definitely overwhelmed. I've heard people having better luck calling right when they open at 8am.

Really? That sounds too good to be true. How does it actually work?

Basically they call Washington ESD for you and wait on hold, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. I was skeptical too but it actually worked.

Is this legit or some kind of scam? I'm desperate but don't want to get ripped off.

What number did you call? The main customer service line or a different one?

Main customer service line (833) 572-8400. Set an alarm for 7:59 and start dialing right at 8.

Tried this yesterday and still couldn't get through. Maybe I need to be faster on the redial.

I know right?? How are we supposed to resolve issues if we can't even talk to someone?

The system is definitely overwhelmed but there are ways to get through if you're persistent.

How much did it cost? And were you able to get your issue resolved?

Don't remember the exact cost but it was worth it to actually get through. Agent was able to explain what was holding up my claim.

I'm considering this too. Anything has to be better than calling endlessly and getting nowhere.

Thank you for the actual helpful advice! I'll try the 8am strategy tomorrow.

What other phone numbers are there besides the main customer service line?

There's the main line and sometimes regional offices have direct numbers, but those change frequently.

47 calls?! That's insane but I guess that's what it takes these days.

47 calls is crazy but at least you got through eventually. I'm on call #30 something myself.

That's three people now who've mentioned Claimyr. Maybe I should look into it.

I'm getting desperate enough to try anything at this point. Regular calling just isn't working.

Yeah I was skeptical at first but when you're dealing with adjudication issues you need to talk to someone who can actually help.

Hmm, that's an interesting theory. I'll give it a shot.

I tried lunch time yesterday and still got the busy signal. Maybe it depends on the day.

Couldn't agree more. Other states have callback systems so you don't have to sit on hold for hours.

A callback system would be amazing! I'd gladly wait my turn if I knew I'd actually get a call back.

I didn't know there was live chat! Where do you find it on the website?

its not always available but sometimes theres a chat option on the secure access washington page

The chat feature is very limited and often offline. Phone is still the best way to reach an actual agent.

127 calls?! That's dedication. I don't know if I have that kind of patience.

Wow, you kept detailed records? That's actually smart for documentation purposes.

Yeah I figured if I needed to file complaints later I'd want records of all my attempts to reach them.

That makes sense - probably more people calling on Mondays after the weekend.

I've noticed Tuesday mornings aren't bad either. Avoid Monday mornings at all costs.

That's great to hear! I think I'm going to try Claimyr too. This endless calling is driving me crazy.

Okay that's like 4 people now who've had success with Claimyr. I'm convinced.

Can you share what documentation they asked for? I'm probably dealing with a similar adjudication issue.

I didn't even know there was a callback option! Where do you find that?

its buried in the phone menu somewhere but like i said they dont actually call back

How do you reach the adjudication department directly? Is there a separate number?

You usually have to go through regular customer service first and ask to be transferred. That's another reason why getting through initially is so important.

This is correct - adjudication issues often require specialized staff who aren't available through the general line.

Alright, I'm convinced! Going to check out Claimyr today. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences.

This thread has been so helpful. I was starting to think I'd never be able to reach Washington ESD.

Good point! I'll make sure to have everything organized before I try calling or use one of these services.

Also have specific questions written down. The agents can be helpful but they're usually rushed.

That's awesome! Gives me hope that I can get through too. 90 minutes on hold isn't fun but it's better than never getting through at all.

Congrats! 90 minutes is actually pretty good for Washington ESD hold times these days.

yeah i was expecting to be on hold for hours so 90 minutes felt like a win

Definitely not alone! This thread has shown me there are options I didn't know about. Good luck with your claim!