Need direct ESD phone number to speak with an agent - bypass automated system?

there isnt a secret number, the main line is 800-318-6022 but everybody gets the same runaround. i got hung up on 16 times last month no joke

WorkSource can't directly connect you to ESD claims specialists anymore. That changed in 2023. They can help with job search activities and some general guidance, but for specific claim issues, you still need to reach ESD directly. The main number (800-318-6022) is unfortunately still the primary way to reach them. A few tips that have worked for me: 1. Call exactly at 7:59am and be ready to select options as soon as the system opens at 8:00 2. Try calling on Wednesday or Thursday - slightly better luck than Mondays 3. If your issue is urgent (missed payments for 3+ weeks), mention that immediately when prompted 4. Use the callback feature if it's offered, but stay by your phone Also check if your issue can be resolved through eServices - they've added more self-service options in the past year.

i had the same problem last month!!! try pushing 2-5-1-3 when the automated menu starts!! someone on reddit said it works to get to a tier 2 agent but idk if its still working

I had this exact same issue with the 'high call volume' message for almost 3 weeks straight. It was infuriating! After many failed attempts, I found a service called Claimyr that got me through to an ESD agent in about 20 minutes. I was super skeptical at first, but it actually worked. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 Their website is claimyr.com if you want to check it out. Basically they use some technology to navigate the phone system and hold your place in line. When they're about to connect with an agent, they call you and connect you. It saved me a ton of frustration after weeks of failed calls.

Since you mentioned an adjudication issue in one of your comments, I wanted to note that these require speaking with a claims specialist, not just a general ESD agent. When you do connect with someone, immediately explain that you received a letter about adjudication without details. Adjudication issues typically relate to one of these areas: 1. Employment separation reason (quit/fired/laid off) 2. Availability for work 3. Job search compliance 4. Income reporting accuracy 5. Identity verification Knowing which category your issue falls under can help the specialist address it more quickly when you connect. You can sometimes see more details about the adjudication issue in your eServices account under "Pending Issues." I also recommend sending a message through the eServices portal about your specific issue. While they don't always respond quickly, it creates a record of your attempt to resolve the issue, which can be helpful if you end up needing to appeal later.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO MAKE YOU GIVE UP!!!! they make it IMPOSSIBLE to talk to anyone hoping youll just stop trying to get YOUR MONEY. ive been dealing with esd for 5 years off and on and its gotten way worse. they had more agents during covid and now its bare bones again. even if you do get thru half the agents dont know what theyre doing and give wrong info!!!

Update on your "Voluntary Quit" issue - that's definitely something you need to address quickly. When the system incorrectly flags a layoff as a voluntary quit, benefits get held up until it's resolved. When you do reach an agent, you'll need: 1. The exact date of your layoff 2. Your former supervisor's name and contact information 3. Any documentation of the layoff (separation letter, emails, etc.) 4. The reason for the department elimination The agent will likely create a fact-finding appointment where you can present this information. If you have documentation showing it was a layoff, attach it to a message in eServices now so it's in your file when you speak to someone.

i had a similar issue last year and ended up going to my local worksource office in person. they couldn't directly fix my esd claim but the lady there gave me a special email address for escalated cases and my issue got fixed in about a week without ever getting through on the phone. might be worth trying if you can get to a worksource office!

Just wanted to add another option that worked for me when I had a similar adjudication mess-up. Contact your state representative's office! I know it sounds crazy, but they have a constituent services department that can help with state agency issues. I called my rep's office and explained I'd been trying to reach ESD for weeks about an incorrect separation reason. They made a call on my behalf and I got a callback from ESD within 3 days. It's free and they're used to helping with these kinds of problems. You can find your rep at leg.wa.gov. Worth a shot if the phone system keeps failing you!