South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce Customer Service Issues

I feel compelled to reach out to my elected officials through a formal letter. I have had difficulty receiving responses about my unemployment benefits. I am not currently enrolled in school. While I was unemployed, my spouse's small business closed, resulting in no income for us. Throughout my employment, I always showed respect to my colleagues, employees, clients, and superiors. Despite facing lengthy and unwarranted interrogations and working in a hostile environment at times, I remained dedicated and excelled in my role. Unfortunately, my questions and concerns have largely been ignored, or I received vague and unclear replies. The website interface is not easy to navigate. I am eager to access the benefits I have earned through my hard work. Any guidance would be appreciated.

Hello! I have a concern regarding my daughter, Oceana K. Jones. She has a claim ID: [redacted] and claimant ID: [redacted]9, and is currently unable to get through on the phone since Monday. She is a student at AAST, in the 11th grade, and her unemployment claim was denied. Oceana typically works a few shifts a week, making about $[redacted] weekly along with receiving complimentary meals. Her W-2 shows earnings of approximately $[redacted], just below the required amount. With tips, her annual income will be around $[redacted]. I plan to file her taxes online tonight and wonder if she may qualify for $50-$[redacted] weekly benefits. As a single mother who waits tables, I am also affected by work closures. Oceana struggles to pay her car expenses now. Any guidance would be appreciated. Thank you.-Traci Williams-Jones

Hello, I'm seeking assistance. I'm 72 years old and recently completed the unemployment benefits form after being laid off because of COVID-19. However, I believe I may have filled it out incorrectly due to receiving my furlough details late from my employer. As of now, I haven't received any financial assistance. I was laid off on March 28, but the eligibility letter states May 12, which confuses me. I would prefer to speak with a real person as I struggle with computers and find it easier to communicate verbally. Today is the first day I have free time since being called back to work on April 29. I need help so I can receive the funds I missed out on during my month off. Additionally, I'm unsure how to certify for my weekly benefits. I feel more comfortable avoiding the computer altogether. Thank you for your support, Catherine Walker.

I struggle with understanding the letters and emails I receive regarding my unemployment benefits after being laid off on March 28 and returning to work on April 29. The dates on file are incorrect, and I cannot find a way to correct them. I urgently need these funds for my upcoming bills. It's frustrating that I cannot speak to a real person for assistance. My coworkers have already received their payments, but I haven't due to this issue. As someone not proficient in computers, I urge you to provide support for individuals like me, especially seniors. Please, I need help and wish to resolve this through a phone call as I am working from 10:30 to 6:30 daily. Thank you, Catherine W.