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What's the best direct ESD customer service number for claim issues?

I've been trying to reach someone at ESD for days about my claim that's been stuck in adjudication for 3 weeks. The main number (800-318-6022) just keeps disconnecting me after the automated messages. Does anyone know if there are any direct lines to actual customer service reps who can help? Or specific times when it's easier to get through? I'm getting desperate as rent is due next week and I need to know what's happening with my claim!

Aisha Jackson

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The main number is literally the only way in. I tried calling right when they open at 8am and it still took me 14 tries before I got into the queue!!! Their system is completely broken. Try calling at exactly 8:00:00 am - not 8:01, not 7:59. EXACTLY 8am when they open.

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Adrian Connor

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Thanks, I'll try the 8am thing tomorrow. Did you get disconnected a bunch of times before finally getting through?

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The official number is indeed 800-318-6022. However, there are some strategies that might help you reach someone: 1. Call precisely at 8:00 AM when they open (as mentioned above) 2. Try calling on Wednesday or Thursday - typically less busy than Monday/Tuesday 3. If you're disconnected, wait 5 minutes before trying again (their system sometimes flags rapid redials) 4. Make sure you're selecting the correct options in the phone tree Alternatively, you can try submitting a secure message through your eServices account, though responses can take 5-7 business days.

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Adrian Connor

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Thanks for the detailed tips! I've sent 2 secure messages already with no response. I'll definitely try the Wednesday/Thursday approach since I've been trying Mondays with no luck.

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Lilly Curtis

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ugh same problem last month! i must have called 30+ times. finally got thru after 3 days of trying. the trick is to keep calling back to back until u get in the queue. it suuuuuucks

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Aisha Jackson

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This is why the system is broken! Everyone has to call hundreds of times just to get basic help with their claims. It's ridiculous.

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Leo Simmons

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I've been through this frustrating situation myself. The main ESD number (800-318-6022) is indeed your primary contact point, but here's what worked for me after weeks of trying: 1. Call at 8:00 AM precisely 2. If disconnected, wait exactly 2 minutes, then try again 3. If you get the "high call volume" message, hang up immediately and redial 4. Continue this pattern until you get the message that places you in a queue Alternatively, check out Claimyr (claimyr.com) - they have a service that helps connect you with an ESD agent much faster. I was skeptical but it worked for me when I was desperate. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 Hope this helps!

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Adrian Connor

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Thank you! I hadn't heard of Claimyr before. I'll check out that video. At this point I'm willing to try anything to get through to a real person.

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Lindsey Fry

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have u tried the technical support number instead? sometimes they can transfer u to claims. its worth a shot 855-682-0785

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That number is specifically for technical support with SAW accounts and eServices. They typically can't help with claim-specific questions and usually don't transfer to claims agents. Just wanted to clarify so people don't waste time calling the wrong department.

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Saleem Vaziri

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I HATE THEIR PHONE SYSTEM!!! Been on unemployment twice in the last 3 years and both times it was IMPOSSIBLE to reach anyone. The trick that finally worked for me was calling right at 8am, then if you get the 'high call volume' message, hang up immediately and call again. I did this for about 25 minutes straight (like 15-20 calls) before finally getting into the queue. Then waited another 45 minutes to talk to someone. It's designed to make you give up!!!

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Lilly Curtis

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omg yes!! its like they WANT us to give up trying to get help!

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Kayla Morgan

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I tried Claimyr that someone mentioned above when my claim was pending for 6 weeks. It actually worked and got me connected to an ESD rep in about 20 minutes instead of spending days trying to call. The rep was able to push my claim through adjudication that same day. Just sharing my experience since I know how stressful waiting can be.

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Adrian Connor

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That's really helpful to know, thanks! Did you have to give them any personal information? I'm a bit wary of third-party services.

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Kayla Morgan

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Just basic contact info so they can call you when they get an ESD agent on the line. They don't need your SSN or anything like that. You still talk directly with the ESD agent for all the important stuff.

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Lindsey Fry

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does ne1 know if theres a seperate # for overpayment issues?? i got a letter saying i owe $4200 back and i NEED to talk to someone!!

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Leo Simmons

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The same main number handles overpayment issues. Make sure to select the correct option in the phone menu for overpayments. But the connection difficulties are unfortunately the same regardless of what type of issue you're calling about.

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Aisha Jackson

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Just wanted to update - I called 43 times this morning starting exactly at 8:00 am and FINALLY got through to someone at 8:37. The rep was actually super helpful and fixed my issue in 10 minutes. So keep trying!!!

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Adrian Connor

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That's both encouraging and discouraging at the same time. Glad you got through but 43 calls is insane! I'll start my marathon calling session tomorrow morning. Thanks for the update!

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