Is anyone else stuck on ESD phone lines trying to file their claim?

Yep. Welcome to ESD hell. I spent literally FOUR DAYS trying to get through last month. The phone system is completely broken. The trick is that you need to call EXACTLY at 7:59am, then navigate through the menu as fast as possible to get in the queue before everyone else. Even then, expect at least a 1-2 hour wait. The WS-839 error usually means the system is overloaded. Try again at like 2am when fewer people are using it.

The ESD phone system has been experiencing higher than normal call volumes recently, which is causing these disconnections. For the WS-839 error, try clearing your browser cache and cookies, then use a different browser. Regarding missed weeks: You can backdate weekly claims for up to 4 weeks, so you won't lose those benefits. When you finally connect with an agent, explain that you've been trying to file but couldn't get through. They can help you file for those missed weeks. Also, remember that you need to complete at least 3 job search activities each week, even if you haven't been able to file - keep documentation of these.

I had the exact same problem last week!!! So frustrating! I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an ESD agent in like 15 minutes instead of waiting for hours. They have this system that basically navigates the phone tree for you and holds your place in line. I was super skeptical but desperate after trying for days, and it actually worked! Here's a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The agent was able to file all my missed weeks and fixed an issue with my claim I didn't even know I had.

For the WS-839 error specifically: 1. Try filing your weekly claim between 11pm-5am when server load is lowest 2. If using WiFi, try switching to a wired connection or mobile data 3. Make sure your browser is updated to the latest version 4. Try using Microsoft Edge - for some reason ESD's site works better with it For phone issues: Call the technical support line (888-316-5066) instead of the main line. They can sometimes help with filing claims when the main line is overwhelmed, and wait times are usually shorter. Also, remember you can backfile for missed weeks, so document everything carefully including your job search activities (3 per week).

I personally had to call 37 times over 3 days last month before getting through. The phone system is completely overwhelmed right now because they laid off a bunch of staff in January. The worst part is when you wait for 2 hours and then they disconnect you right when someone picks up!!! Happened to me TWICE. Has anyone noticed that it's gotten even worse in the past 2 weeks? I think there must be another wave of layoffs happening somewhere.

i got thru yesterday! called at 8am exactly and waited 1hr 22min but finally talked to someone named diego who was rly nice. he fixed my claim and even helped with the weeks i missed. said they're training new people so maybe itll get better soon?? good luck!!

Quick update on the system issues: The ESD website is scheduled for maintenance tonight from 11pm-3am, which should address some of the error codes people have been experiencing, including WS-839. For those still struggling with phone lines, remember: 1. You can file weekly claims for up to 4 previous weeks 2. Document all job search activities even if you can't file (3 per week minimum) 3. If your claim is in adjudication or has a specific issue, note that in the system when you do connect 4. Morning calls (8:00-8:30am) and late afternoon (3:30-4:00pm) typically have shorter wait times Stay persistent and keep detailed records of all your attempts to contact ESD - this documentation can help if there are any issues with your claim later.

I just got off the phone with ESD (finally!) and the agent told me they're aware of widespread issues with both the phone system and website errors. She confirmed they can help file missed weekly claims over the phone and that they're prioritizing cases where people have been unable to file due to technical issues. She also mentioned that if you get the WS-839 error specifically, you should try the eServices mobile app instead of the website - apparently it's using a different server that isn't as overloaded. For the original poster: Based on what the agent told me, I'd recommend documenting every time you've tried to call (dates and times) and keeping screenshots of any website errors. This will help them verify you've been making good faith efforts to file.