Virginia Employment Commission Customer Service Issues

I recently got a letter from the Virginia Employment Commission about a Fact-Finding Interview. The letter instructs me to contact the Customer Contact Center at [redacted] before December 15th, [redacted]. They are questioning my eligibility for benefits and asking for the gross wages earned during the week ending on 4/18/[redacted]. However, when I called the number, it says I don't have permission to use it or that I missed the deadline. I also tried calling regular customer service, but I couldn't get through. What should I do now?

As an independent self-employed contractor, I have faced challenges during the COVID-19 Pandemic which led me to file for unemployment since March [redacted]. I have some concerns and questions regarding the process: 1. I was under the impression that by filing for unemployment, I was already attesting to the validity of my claim. Why is there a need for me to retroactively attest each week that I received benefits? 2. I was informed that as an independent contractor, I did not need to attest. Can you confirm if this information is accurate? I have been unable to file for weeks, and I suspect this might be the reason for the blockage. 3. Despite working part-time and earning around $[redacted] per week since October, I am unsure if I am still eligible to receive benefits since this income is not sufficient to cover my living expenses. Can you clarify my eligibility in this situation?

I've been attempting to reach out for the last four weeks regarding my unemployment. My last check was on 10-21-[redacted]. I called on the 28th and spoke with a representative who confirmed receiving my application. They advised me to continue filing my weekly claims, which I did. However, on 10-25, my claim was accepted, but no funds were deposited into my account. Three weeks ago, it showed I had no funds to claim. I haven't received any letters or correspondence regarding this matter. It's already December, and I'm in need of assistance. Thank you.

I have applied for unemployment benefits and have not received any payments despite submitting weekly claims. After initially receiving a letter outlining my benefits, I encountered an issue related to "separation" that remains unresolved. I have sent two letters explaining the situation, but have not received any response, likely due to a heavy workload. I had to resign from my position due to concerns about my health and safety regarding Covid-19 protocols at Charlottesville Catholic School. Both the principal and Human Resources informed me that my program would not enforce mask-wearing for 4-year-olds, putting me at risk as advised by my doctor. I was forced to leave two years earlier than planned, causing financial strain. I am reaching out for guidance and assistance with this matter. Thank you. [redacted]

I have had to provide a letter of explanation twice recently due to my resignation with cause. Despite receiving a letter outlining my eligible benefits, I have not yet received any assistance. I have consistently filed my claims since July, but there seems to be an unresolved "separation" issue affecting my payments. My resignation was necessary as my doctor advised against working at a school where children were not required to wear masks. Despite assurances from Charlottesville Catholic School that masks would not be necessary in the 4-year-old program where I taught, I had to prioritize my health. Retirement was just two years away, and the financial strain could be alleviated if my unemployment benefits were processed promptly. Any guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated.

I recently filed a claim and received my paperwork with the PIN number. I successfully filed my weekly claim for week 40 on Gov2go. However, when I called, the system indicated that my claim could not be found. I have been attempting to reach out via phone, email, and live chat for months, but have had no luck getting a response. I urgently need to speak with a representative today as I feel extremely frustrated with the situation. Unfortunately, I lost all my clients because of the Covid-19 situation, I am struggling to find a new job, and I have no funds for Christmas gifts for my kids. I really hope someone can assist me promptly.

I’m Artazia Palmer. I’m currently receiving unemployment benefits. I have been expecting my back payment, which initially was sent to a bank account that unemployment couldn’t process. Since then, I received the waytogo card from unemployment and have been patiently waiting for my back payment. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to reach anyone regarding this issue. The payment was first attempted in October, and now it’s the end of December with no resolution in sight. Any help with this matter would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

I was working in a COVID unit when I was called downstairs and instructed to go to the stairwell for charting. There was no heat, no proper workspace, and I was not provided with the right environment to do my job. I refused to chart there as it should be done at a nursing station. After that, I was yelled at, later informed of a 3-day suspension, and told to expect a call on Friday regarding a complaint. However, I never received that call. Furthermore, there was an ambulance with doors open right outside the door I needed to exit from. When I left, the police stopped me to check on my well-being. I explained the situation from my point of view and found it unnecessary to involve them in such a manner.

My benefits have been halted due to a problem with my claim. My previous employer has been in touch to address this issue, but I'm unsure why there's a delay. I've consistently submitted my weekly claims, reporting any income earned. I'm working a total of 24 hours a month and have been declaring that income. I had to reduce my hours due to a family bereavement in October and November. While I acknowledge the impact of the Pandemic on processing times, I am eager for an update on my claim. My contact number is [redacted].

I recently moved to Virginia from Maine last December. I used to work as an RN in Maine and was planning to work here in Virginia. Unfortunately, my husband is currently in the hospital due to a severe heart condition, and we were advised to avoid potential COVID-19 exposure. His recovery will be lengthy, preventing me from seeking employment as previously planned. Given the critical financial impact of not working, I am wondering if I am eligible for unemployment benefits in this situation. I have tried various websites and contact numbers to find information and apply, but haven't had any luck. Could you please advise me on how to apply for unemployment benefits in my current circumstances? Thank you.

I reopened my claim and submitted my weekly certification by phone for the week ending 1-2-[redacted]. When I tried to file for the following week, it unexpectedly went back to 10-17-[redacted]. I had to fill in all the missing weekly certifications before it allowed me to proceed. However, when I called the automated system afterward, it informed me that my claim couldn't be processed due to an ongoing issue with my weekly claim and that my monetary amount was reduced by one payment of $[redacted].00. Despite numerous attempts, I've struggled to get through to VEC as all representatives are busy, and the chat options are also unavailable. Even when I manage to speak to someone, they are unable to access my claim or provide assistance, leaving many of us frustrated and without answers.

Since July [redacted], I have been attempting to claim unemployment benefits without success due to a dispute with my former employer. They incorrectly stated that I quit, when I was actually terminated. I have been waiting for a VEC deputy to contact me for resolution so that I may finally receive my owed payments. The difficulties persist as I am unable to reach anyone at VEC over the phone despite multiple attempts daily for almost six months. Every call results in the same automated message about busy representatives before hanging up. Your assistance in connecting me with a VEC representative would be immensely helpful. Thank you.

I received notifications by mail, Gov2Go, and menu responses to contact VEC Customer Service on Nov 24, [redacted]. Since then, I have diligently logged my calls, reaching out hourly every day the VEC Unemployment Customer Service line was open. Despite my efforts, I have faced obstacles contacting them through various channels, such as email, Gov2Go, and my local VEC office in Norfolk on Glenrock Road. The office directed me to call VEC-UI at [redacted], but each time the voicemail box was full. I have been attempting to reopen my PUA claim as instructed but have not received any follow-up. Time is running out as I have been without benefits since November, affecting my ability to afford essentials like car insurance. I am in a dire situation, caring for my 82-year-old father with Alzheimer’s while struggling financially. Please assist me in resolving this urgent matter. Thank you. - Kimberly

I am currently receiving benefits through the PUA program and I usually file my claims using the Gov2Go app. The last time I submitted a claim and received payment was for week 41 on December 29th. I hadn't filed any weeks in January yet when I received an email on January 14th stating that weeks 42 and 43 were overdue, so I promptly filed those. Later that evening, I received another email saying week 44 was overdue, and I filed that as well. Since Monday was a holiday, I expected my payment on Tuesday, but it didn't come through. When I called, I was informed that there is an outstanding issue on my account. I'm confused and unsure how to resolve this issue.

When checking on my claim status, it indicates it couldn't be processed due to an outstanding issue. After researching online, it seems this might be related to a separation problem. However, both my brother and I were laid off for the same reason. I filed my claim on 12/07/20, and he filed his on 12/28/20 with identical separation reasons, yet he's already receiving his benefits while I'm still waiting. Despite receiving my monetary determination letter and PIN, and submitting weekly claims for the past 5 to 6 weeks, I haven't received any payments. Each time I check my balance online or via phone, it shows the same information as my determination letter. I've been struggling to reach unemployment customer support, only to be put on hold for hours or disconnected abruptly. I'm reaching out for assistance as I'm feeling frustrated and unsure of what steps to take next. My name is M. A. Cressel, and I appreciate any help you can offer. Thank you and please let me know if you need further details.

Good morning, I am experiencing difficulties filing my PUA weekly benefits through the govtogo app. When I tried to submit my claim for W/E Jan 2, [redacted], it displayed an error message requiring an attestation for benefits w/e 3/21/20 before proceeding with the PUA claim. The app directed me to visit my timeline, but this feature is no longer available. Despite reaching out through the app, the responses received did not address my issue. I received benefits from March to May [redacted] and have not closed my account. In September [redacted], I provided tax information for a monetary determination adjustment and was told to expect a resolution in 2-4 weeks. I understood that having received PUA benefits in [redacted] would mean I do not need to re-apply for [redacted], but may need to submit income documentation within three months. I am willing to submit any necessary forms but seek clear guidance on the next steps. I am unsure if the system is currently fully operational for PUA claims. Thank you for your assistance. Valeria B.

I started a job in September but only trained for a week and a half due to my mom's cancer surgery, caring for my dad, who is a heart patient, diabetic, and blind, and my infant as a single mother. I received a letter dated Oct 3 but only got it on Oct 8. I tried to contact customer service with no luck and ended up not filing for 10 weeks. In December, I tried to file for the missed weeks and managed to claim 10 weeks but only got paid for one week in December. I mentioned working only on the week of October 10, then stopped working at the end of September. I wonder where my payment is for the period from October 10 to December.

I recently received a letter requesting more information regarding my employer, Leanne Lewis. When I attempt to call the provided number, I am asked to provide more information. Upon calling, it indicates there are no pending issues or that I have surpassed the deadline to call. The letter was received on Monday, 2/1/21, instructing me to contact 1-[redacted]. However, calling this number informs me that there are no pending matters. I was expecting my unemployment funds to be deposited by today, 2/4/21, but they have not appeared in my account. Upon checking, there seems to be a pending issue with my claim. I have tried reaching out using the number on the letter, but it disconnects me if no representatives are available. I would appreciate guidance on the next steps. I was informed of a live chat option, but I am unable to locate it for communication. Thank you for your assistance.

I was recently laid off for the second time due to COVID-19 and had to create a new Gov2go account as I couldn't access my old one from May [redacted]. I had to redo my entire unemployment application to start making weekly claims. It was confusing to navigate which CARESAct to file under and how to set up my account properly. Unfortunately, I'm not sure if I did everything correctly as I haven't received any benefits yet. When I called the Hampton office, they mentioned an 8-day waiting period before I could file weekly claims. I managed to submit a couple of claims but still haven't received any payments. I need assistance to resolve any outstanding issues preventing me from receiving my benefits. Thank you for your help.

I am encountering difficulties receiving my benefits. Despite understanding the situation, I am facing homelessness due to the delayed payments. While my relatives, former colleagues, church community, and others promptly receive their benefits and responses, I am left without any financial assistance. The hotline at 1-[redacted] is constantly busy or unanswered when I call, leading to further frustration. The available options do not cater to my specific needs or inquiries, leaving me without the necessary support. I urgently require my benefits to cover essential expenses like food and shelter, as I am currently struggling to make ends meet and maintain my health. The lack of communication and payment from the VEC is causing severe hardship for me, and despite my attempts to address the issue through various channels, the situation remains unresolved. I am in urgent need of assistance to address my financial struggles and health concerns.