Ohio Office of Unemployment Compensation Customer Service Issues

I am struggling to get in touch with unemployment to address an issue with my claim. Despite numerous attempts to contact them in the past week, I have been unsuccessful in reaching a representative due to busy phone lines and chat services. My claim has been wrongly marked as a "Break in claim" by JFS as they incorrectly assumed I needed to backdate my claim. This error has resulted in delays in processing my claim. I followed the instructions provided in the email, indicating I did not need to backdate my claim. However, JFS made the decision without allowing me to correct it promptly. My initial application clearly stated my situation, with details of my furlough period and earnings, yet there seems to be a misunderstanding on their part.

I was laid off on March 22nd due to Covid-19. My name is James T. Wayne, claimant ID [redacted]89. Despite having four weeks of pending payments, I have not received any money yet. I am facing desperation and distress as a 73-year-old with no financial resources. After my house payment on May 1st, I will have no money for bills, food, or fuel. My attempts to resolve the issue through phone calls and online applications have been unsuccessful. I am about to file for my fifth week without payment and feel lost in the process. I am unsure if the error lies with me or my company, SP PLUS INC. Should I file a new claim or continue waiting with pending claims? I appeal for someone to assist me as I am struggling to cope with this situation.

Since April 11th, I have been attempting to file for unemployment benefits. However, I encountered an issue while trying to register for an account and submit my claim. When I click on the "register now" link and input all my details correctly, I receive a message saying I do not need to register as I already have a PIN. This cannot be accurate as I have never applied for unemployment before. When trying to retrieve a new or lost PIN, I am directed to a chat where after filling in my information again, I receive an error message stating my details are incorrect and to call a specific number. Despite multiple attempts, calling the number results in it saying my ID number is invalid. My driver's license has expired, and given the current situation, I am unable to renew it, adding to my confusion regarding this issue.

I've been facing issues while filing my unemployment claims for the past two weeks. Initially, I missed clicking "yes" to search for work, which led to a delay in payment for that week. Despite responding to the email requesting more information, I still haven't received payment. Subsequently, on Saturday, I noticed no updates in the current week tab. It prompted me to "file additional/reopen," and after doing so, I was able to file for the current week as usual. I made sure to include the Covid-19 information as per the JFS tutorials this time. Today, I received two emails: one requesting more information for the "notice of eligibility" and another regarding a "notice of change in work." However, when I try to contact the toll-free number provided, it consistently informs me of a high call volume and suggests trying again later.

I first applied for Ohio unemployment benefits on 3/28/[redacted]. I received a determination amount, but despite filing regularly, I keep receiving "break in claim" notices. I responded to emails about "backdating" and providing additional information, including submitting a mass layoff notification when required. Today (4/27/[redacted]), I finally spoke to a representative at [redacted]. She redirected me to another department, where I ended up back in the same automated phone system telling me to call back later before disconnecting. A mass email instructed me to speak to a live agent to resolve the break in claim issue.

I have been attempting to reset my PIN to apply for unemployment benefits. The online system instructs me to contact Ohio Unemployment Services to reset it. I have been calling since April 6th with no success. I believe answering a few online security questions should be all that is necessary to reset a PIN. Many of my co-workers and friends are experiencing the same problem. I think this simple change would reduce the volume of unnecessary calls and improve the process for everyone. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. Thank you, Tonia.

I have a PIN number and signed up with all the information. I almost completed the process, but it froze after asking for job descriptions, which I was advised not to answer. I inputted "info" and then my code [redacted]. I am 73 and my husband is 75, and due to his health issues, I have not worked in 26 years to take care of him. I need to file a claim now. Can you please assist me? My PIN is [redacted]78, and my SS is [redacted]77. I've been at the same place for 26 years without filing before. I'm having trouble entering the claim. I can't reach anyone on the phone. Thank you, Ann H, at [redacted]. Code: [redacted].

I have been attempting to apply for unemployment benefits in Ohio through the website unemployment.ohio.gov and the phone line [redacted]. However, I am encountering issues with entering my PIN as I had forgotten that I previously set one up around 12 years ago for a prior claim. Despite providing the required information, the system is unable to process my request. I even tried to reset my PIN using the phone number [redacted], but I received the same error message asking me to try again later due to high demand. I am confused about the purpose of the separate PIN reset line. How can I resolve this dilemma or where should I seek guidance?

After being furloughed from my job on April 18, [redacted], I applied for Ohio unemployment benefits for the first time. I received an email on April 23, [redacted], from OJI with new items in my correspondence box. Upon checking, I found a notice of eligibility issue that required more information by April 27, [redacted]. I provided the necessary information promptly. However, when I tried to file for my second week of benefits on April 26, [redacted], I faced a red flag indicating I could only "reclaim benefits for the following week." This situation implies that I would need to reapply entirely if I returned to work and got laid off again, which hasn't happened. I have been unable to reach a live person for assistance, and automated messages only mention that my claim is pending without further details. I am seeking help to resolve this issue promptly and avoid any further delays in processing my claim.

I find the situation confusing and I'm unable to reach anyone by phone. I work as an RN and was furloughed a few weeks back. Even before that, I was placed on call without pay, leaving me in limbo. This situation may be causing delays and confusion with my benefits. My first week without pay was on April 18. While I understand there might be delays with the unemployment process, I'm hoping for confirmation of my eligibility for full benefits. I have the confirmation numbers for my claims but navigating this system is quite baffling. I simply wish to speak with a person to verify my acceptance for full benefits from that initial week and to receive an estimate on when to expect them. Although many others are waiting longer, the urgency of receiving these payments is significant. I seek reassurance that my claims are in order and that I will receive both unemployment benefits and the additional $[redacted] per week. Any assistance or information provided would be greatly valued. Thank you, B.

My name is George Starks, and I filed for unemployment on March 29th. On April 23rd, my claim status changed to UI initial allowed, indicating approval for unemployment benefits from April 23rd to May 14th. When I checked the printable version of my claim, it listed my employment history and confirmed my approval. However, when I tried to file for the following week, I was prompted to reapply. I have attempted to contact the unemployment office multiple times since Tuesday without success. If possible, please reach out to me at [redacted] or [redacted] I urgently need my approved status reinstated to receive compensation, as I have been without income since early April. Thank you for your help.

I needed my unemployment application to be backdated. I contacted unemployment and spoke to a representative on Monday, April 27, [redacted]. He voided my current claim and mentioned he would reach out to me within 24 hours. His call was meant to ensure my application could be backdated to March 15, [redacted]. Despite trying to contact a representative daily, the call disconnects due to high volume after navigating the prompts. I am hesitant to reapply online as the previous attempt was incorrect. The simplest solution would be for the representative to return my call as promised to expedite my claim, as I am now in the seventh week without payment.

When I tried to file a new claim in March, I discovered a previously approved claim from [redacted] that I had thought was denied. Unsure of how to update the information, I closed that claim and opened a new one. Since then, I have felt lost and confused, needing to file new claims two more times due to various issues. Currently, I have 5 claimed weeks from March 28th showing as Pay Held with a determination of 0-0. I received some conflicting correspondences confirming benefits, but they were for claims I mistakenly refiled. I've submitted additional information multiple times under different claim numbers, with my most recent claim status unknown as I've received no recent correspondences. I am unsure if I need to reclaim past weeks under different claim IDs. I have been unable to speak with anyone for guidance, and after 5-6 weeks with unresolved claims, I urgently seek assistance to understand my next steps. Sincerely, J.

To whom it may concern, My name is Darvie Littlejohn, and my social security number is [redacted]. On 4/25/[redacted], I submitted three job applications and kept records of them for the week. After the website update, I received an email instructing me to claim benefits on Mondays based on the first letter of my first name. However, I encountered an issue where my only option seemed to be to refile, even though I had already provided all the necessary information during sign-up weeks prior. Upon reapplying, I was then told I needed to do two applications per week, which I had been doing independently. Despite following all instructions diligently, when I checked my deposit information for 4/25/[redacted], it showed a "break in claim" with confirmation number [redacted]. I researched this online and found out that I might not get paid for that week. This has left me confused and anxious as I rely on these weekly payments since I am currently completely unemployed due to the pandemic. I've been blocked from sending emails and unable to reach the Akron, Ohio office listed on my correspondence. I'm considering filing an appeal for that week but would appreciate any guidance you can provide. Please feel free to contact me at [redacted]. Thank you for your assistance.

I have been a dental hygienist for 32 years, working for a dentist who recently purchased the business from my previous employer of 20 years. However, my current boss is looking to hire a younger replacement without valid reasons to terminate my employment. The challenge at hand is the lack of proper PPE for the reopening scheduled for May 11th. When I raised this concern, my employer threatened to reduce my pay and hours or hire someone else if I refuse to return to work. I have asthma, and one of my children at home is also at risk, so I am requesting fluid-resistant disposable gowns for patient safety following CDC and ADA guidelines. I believe my age might be a factor in her behavior. Can I qualify for unemployment if I choose not to work in an unsafe and unfriendly environment? -J. B.

Hello, my name is Michael Nix. I faxed an appeal regarding my unemployment rejection to the fax number in Youngstown, including my Social Security number ending in the last four digits. My employer incorrectly counted 2 weeks I did not work during the fourth quarter of [redacted], one being the week of Thanksgiving and the other the week of Christmas. I worked 44 weeks during the "base period," not 46. Upon recalculating, I earned just over $[redacted] per week, meeting the required amount of $[redacted]. Supporting documents were sent with my fax. I am aware of the current workload but hope this issue can be rectified promptly. I included my SS# ending in [redacted] and password [redacted]7. I mentioned my layoff date as March 13th in my appeal note and provided the necessary information. Can you assist me with this matter? Thank you for your help. -Mike Nix [redacted] 4th Street Defiance, Ohio [redacted] Phone: [redacted]

I work part-time as an RN at University Hospital Cleveland. Since March 10, [redacted], I've been off work without pay. I found a temporary position with the Census but have been on hold since March 10. I was paid $[redacted] per week for four weeks on pause, but I haven't received any payment after April 30. I initially applied for Ohio Unemployment, and my benefit year is from April 3, [redacted], to April 3, [redacted]. I've been filing weekly claims since April 11, and despite seeing five confirmations on the website, my status is always "pending," and I haven't received any money in my direct deposit as of May 4. I believe I am eligible for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and CARES Act benefits. However, Ohio Unemployment information states that online pre-registration is possible but actual processing won't start until mid-May. I'm unsure whether to continue with regular unemployment claims or cancel that and apply for Pandemic assistance and CARES benefits, which I'm uncertain will be effective.

About 8 weeks ago, I attempted to reset my PIN for unemployment benefits by using the automated system through the [redacted] number provided. After waiting for 4 weeks and no PIN arriving, I then tried the unemployment.ohio.gov website and utilized the chat bot but was informed that the new PIN would also be sent via mail. Despite it being almost 8 weeks since my initial request, I have yet to receive the PIN. After multiple unsuccessful attempts to guess my PIN, my account is now locked. Contacting various numbers, including the ODJFS Processing Center, led me to the same automated system. Even when attempting to reset my PIN, I was unable to do so and was transferred back to the automated help line, resulting in disconnects. I am feeling lost and frustrated as I just need my PIN to access my account. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

When I started receiving unemployment benefits, I was still getting vacation pay and coronavirus leave pay from my employer. I did include this income in the questions asked during the unemployment application process. I got $[redacted] from unemployment benefits along with $[redacted] for being at high risk for the virus. I'm wondering if I have to repay this money since I'm returning to work on May 11th.

I recently submitted my unemployment claim and received a request for additional information. I answered the questions incorrectly in the second part of the questionnaire due to misunderstanding. I want to correct my responses but am experiencing difficulties accessing the online platform. Additionally, my phone calls have gone unanswered due to high call volumes. How can I rectify this situation? Thank you. Birendra J.