Why is my ESD claim still saying 'processing-IVR' after 3 weeks?

Yes, this is still happening. I was stuck in processing-IVR for almost a month before mine finally changed to 'processing'. The IVR part means it's being verified through their Interactive Voice Response system. Basically, they're cross-checking your identity and employment info. Unfortunately, ESD is still dealing with a backlog from their system update in January 2025. Keep filing your weekly claims even while it's processing! Even though you won't get paid yet, you'll get backpay once approved. Also make sure you completed the ID verification through ID.me if they requested it.

mine was stuk in procesing-IVR for like 5 weeks!!! so frustrating. i just kept doing my weekly claims and then one day it just changed to paid without any notice or anything. but my friend had hers go thru in like 10 days last month so i think its really random

I just went through this exact situation! After hitting the redial button for literally DAYS trying to get through to ESD, I finally tried using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an agent. They called me back within 30 minutes with an ESD rep on the line. Turns out my claim was stuck because my former employer had entered incorrect separation information. The agent fixed it right there and my status changed from 'processing-IVR' to 'paid' within 48 hours. Their video demo shows exactly how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3

THE WHOLE ESD SYSTEM IS A JOKE!! They leave people hanging for WEEKS with no income while bills pile up and then expect us to just wait patiently?? I was stuck in "processing-IVR" for 6 WEEKS last year! SIX!!! And every time I called they gave me a different excuse. First it was "verification" then it was "system issues" then it was "employer response pending" - MAKE UP YOUR MINDS PEOPLE!! Try contacting your state representative's office. That's what finally worked for me. They have special liaisons with ESD who can actually get things moving.

Let me clarify a few things about the 'processing-IVR' status since there's some misinformation here: 1. 'IVR' in this context typically means the claim is pending verification through their automated systems, not necessarily the phone system specifically. 2. Current average processing time is 14-21 business days according to ESD's latest report, though some claims take longer depending on complexity. 3. You should check your ESD account for any 'Uploads' or 'Tasks' sections that might request additional documentation. These don't always trigger notifications. 4. Make sure your work search activities are being documented properly (3 per week) even while in processing status. 5. If you've waited more than 21 business days, definitely contact ESD directly as your claim may have an issue that's not visible to you in the portal. In the meantime, continue filing weekly claims and documenting your job search activities.

my brother had this happen and it was cuz they needed more info from his old job but nobody told him!! check if theres any letters in your esd message center maybe

One other thing to check - log in to your SAW account directly (not through the ESD link) and see if there are any identity verification notices there. Sometimes those don't show up properly in the ESD portal. Also, double-check that all your contact information is up-to-date in both systems. If you've been waiting more than 3 weeks with no change in status, reaching a claims agent is really your best option. Unfortunately, the phone system is completely overwhelmed right now due to the seasonal layoffs in construction and hospitality.