How can I get inbound/outbound call process?

Why does Unemployment take so damn long to process?

• After providing 4 years of excellent service to my last job, I was suddenly and unexpectedly let go after a change in management. I have applied for all the government benefit programs I can think of- I'm already getting food stamps, I already have fuel assistance, and I even have temporary medical benefits. However my unemployment benefits still have yet to come through. I finally had my interview last Friday (10/28) after being out of work for a month. When I asked how long it take to simply find out if I was eligible for unemployment benefits or not, this is what I got told: "Since there is such a differing of opinions between the two parties (meaning me and my former employer) on why you were let go, we will need to call them back to recount your side of the story and give them a chance to respond. I will call them first thing next week and it's policy to give them a minimum of 48 hours to respond. You'll hear back from me some time next week." Sounded like a typical answer, but I wanted to remain optimistic. I said OK, Thank you and hung up. The entire week has gone by and I have not heard a single word from them. I'm falling behind on all my bills. I'm getting eviction notices. I fear getting evicted- I have nowhere to go. My utilities are now 2 months behind and I fear those getting shut off. I'm applying for work anywhere and everywhere I can- even to places on the other side of the country. Still no bites. So what I'm wondering is this: why does it take so long to process all this? I understand that they process hundreds of claims every day for the millions of unemployed Americans out there... but something still doesn't add up for me. How in god's name can it take up to 12 weeks just to get an answer? I'm now headed into my 6th week of unemployment, and I don't know how much more I can take. I have panic attacks every day (I had already been diagnosed with generalized anxiety and this situation is only making it worse). I'm back into therapy after not needing it for 2 years. I can't sleep at night- I get an average of 2-3 hours of sleep. I'm just... I'm at a loss. I also realize that once you are approved (if you are approved at all) you will get a lump sum payment- but I worry that it's going to take another 4 or 8 weeks. By then, it's not going to matter if I get lump sum payment- everything will be disconnected and I'll have no home. (See? There's that anxiety coming into play!) Come Monday morning I think I'm going to call them up and ask to speak to a supervisor because this is getting to be a little ridiculous. Do they drag the process on purpose?

• Answer:

  The reason it is taking so long is because unemployment claims are at an all time high and the unemployment offices are understaffed. Also, your case is not cut and dried. I suggest that you call and request the status of your case.