Unknown email appearing when trying to create ESD account - not mine?

This happened to me last month. It means someone previously created an account using your SSN/personal information, or there's a mix-up in their system. You'll need to call ESD directly - they have to manually fix this in their database. Unfortunately you can't resolve this online.

did u check if mayb its an old email u used to have? sometimes i forget about old accounts i made years ago lol

This is a common issue with ESD's identity verification system. There are three possibilities: 1. Someone previously tried to file using your information (potentially fraud) 2. There's a data entry error in their system linking your SSN to someone else's email 3. You have a very old account you don't remember (though you mentioned this is your first time filing) You absolutely must speak with ESD directly to resolve this. They need to verify your identity and clear the previous account association. This can't be fixed through the online portal alone.

I had a similar problem last year when applying for benefits. I spent WEEKS trying to get through on the phone before discovering Claimyr (claimyr.com). They have a service that basically calls ESD for you and then connects you once an agent is on the line. Saved me hours of redial hell. They have a video explaining how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. My account issue got resolved in a single call once I actually got through to a human.

Yes, I got through same day! The ESD agent I spoke with was able to remove the incorrect email association and reset my account during that call. Took about 15 minutes once I was talking to someone. Just make sure you have your ID and SSN card ready because they'll need to verify your identity.

DONT BOTHER with the regular phone number!!! They NEVER answer!!! I tried for TWO MONTHS last year and couldn't get through. The whole system is BROKEN BY DESIGN. They don't want to pay people so they make it IMPOSSIBLE to reach anyone!!! I finally had to contact my state representative's office and have them intervene.

UPDATE: I finally got through to ESD using Claimyr! The agent told me someone had tried to file a fraudulent claim using my identity back in January 2025, but it was flagged and denied. That's why that weird email was in the system. They've cleared it now and helped me set up my legitimate account. For anyone else dealing with this - keep documentation of everything and be persistent!

Is anyone else worried about how common identity theft seems to be with unemployment claims? My cousin had the same thing happen last month but she couldn't get it resolved and ended up waiting 6 weeks to file her claim. Then they questioned why she waited so long to file after her job ended! The whole system feels like a catch-22 sometimes.