Frustration among Kentucky residents seeking unemployment benefits continues to grow, as many face difficulties in contacting the overwhelmed state phone lines. The state still uses an outdated system, further compounding the struggle. A six-year contract, worth $55.5 million, was signed with Deloitte Consulting in May 2024, aiming to replace this antiquated technology system. With this replacement, implementation is expected by the first quarter of 2026. However, despite these plans, a significant backlog remains. The lack of sufficient staff to process such claims intensifies the issue, leading to long processing times. Actions taken to alleviate this situation include the upcoming hiring of 25 additional workers and a plan to upgrade the current technology system. These updates are expected to simplify the claims process, providing an online platform to submit claims, check payments, receive benefits, and file appeals.

To those facing similar difficulties in reaching out to unemployment services, websites such as eddcaller.com can offer effective solutions on how to contact a live person at California’s Employment Development Department (EDD). Besides providing useful strategies for navigating automated phone systems, it also helps people understand how to get a hold of EDD customer service, streamlining contact with the relevant unemployment service departments.