Just to clarify a few things: 1. The CONNECT work search log is sufficient documentation. You don't need to print anything unless specifically requested during an audit. 2. Extensions are processed automatically - the system will determine if you qualify for Extended Benefits based on your earnings during your base period and how much of your regular claim you exhausted. 3. There may be a brief processing period (1-3 days) when you transition from regular benefits to extended benefits, but if you continue claiming weeks as scheduled, there shouldn't be any payment gaps. 4. Work search requirements remain at 5 verifiable work searches per week unless you have a Work Search Waiver. 5. The current federal supplement ($375/week in Florida) continues with your extension as long as the program remains funded.

One thing nobody mentioned - make sure your address and direct deposit info are up to date in CONNECT before your claim rolls over! When mine switched to extended benefits, it somehow reverted to an old address I had in the system, and they tried mailing me a paper check instead of direct deposit. Took 3 weeks to fix the mess.

Since you already got your hearing notice from CONNECT, make sure to download and save it immediately. Sometimes they disappear from the system (happened to my cousin). Also, write down the exact phone number and access code for the hearing and set multiple reminders. Missing the hearing automatically means you lose the case.

One last piece of advice - during the hearing, keep your answers brief and directly address the question asked. Don't volunteer extra information or try to tell your whole story at once. The hearing officer will guide the conversation. If you're asked a yes/no question, answer yes or no and then elaborate only if asked to do so. Stay focused on the key facts: 1) You gave proper notice, 2) Employer terminated you early, 3) You had a new job lined up with a specific start date, and 4) You only claimed benefits for that gap period. Good luck!

Let's be honest - NOBODY at DEO actually loses their job over poor performance. I filed FORMAL COMPLAINTS with names and dates of representatives who gave me completely wrong information that caused my benefits to be delayed for months. Know what happened? NOTHING!!! The entire "accountability" system is a JOKE designed to LOOK like they care while doing ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!! The only thing that works is public shame and media attention. Contact every news station, newspaper, and social media channel. The moment a reporter starts asking questions, MIRACULOUSLY claims get resolved!!!

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I've been taking notes on everything suggested. I've already emailed my state rep and senator this morning with all my claim details. I'm going to try calling at 7:30am tomorrow using the specific phrases about tier 2 agents and hardship escalation. I'm also going to email the Inspector General with my documentation. I've been keeping a log of all calls and conflicting information I've received, so at least I have that ready. I'm seriously considering that Claimyr service too since it sounds like it might actually get me through to someone who can help. Will update once I make any progress. Seems like there's plenty of responsibility to go around but nobody willing to take it...

update: I just checked CONNECT again and mine shows 'pending resolution' too now. I swear it didn't say that earlier. This system is so glitchy

For everyone dealing with this issue, here's what usually happens with these holds: 1. Simple availability questions (like doctor appointments) typically get resolved in 3-8 days if you don't contact them 2. If you can reach an agent, they can often remove the hold same-day 3. When resolved, you'll receive all back payments at once 4. Your CONNECT inbox will receive a determination letter explaining the resolution If you do call, make sure to have your claimant ID ready and clearly explain that you were fully available for work despite the doctor appointment. Under Florida rules, routine appointments don't make you unavailable for work unless they would prevent you from accepting suitable employment.

@OP - To answer your question, the adjudicator asked me about the circumstances of my previous disqualification (it was a job I quit for health reasons without proper documentation). I explained that the situation was resolved years ago and that I'd worked and paid taxes for 3 years since then. She said that old disqualifications aren't supposed to carry forward if you've had substantial employment since then (apparently 1.5+ years of work should clear it). She said it was clearly a system error and removed it. Probably took 10 minutes once I explained everything. Good luck tomorrow!!

Thank you for these details! My wife's situation is very similar - her 2018 disqualification was because she found a new job within 2 weeks of applying (so she only collected for 2 weeks). She's worked continuously from 2018 until this February. Hopefully we can get an adjudicator who understands the system as well as yours did!