I just want to echo what others have said about filing ASAP - I made the mistake of waiting almost a month after my layoff because I was intimidated by the whole process. Don't be like me! The DUA system is actually pretty user-friendly once you get started. One thing I wish someone had told me is that even if you're not 100% sure about some of the details when filling out your application, it's better to submit it and provide clarifications later if needed rather than delaying. Also, regarding the benefit calculation, I found it helpful to think of it this way: DUA basically averages out your earnings over the base period to smooth out any fluctuations, so if you had consistent work like you described at your retail job, that actually works in your favor. My weekly benefit ended up being right around that 50% mark others mentioned, and it was enough to cover my basic expenses while job hunting. The hardest part is just getting over that initial hurdle of actually filing the claim!

I just want to add something that might help since I recently filed my DUA claim too. When you're gathering your information before filing, don't forget about any holiday bonuses or overtime pay you might have earned during your base period - those count toward your total wages and can actually boost your benefit calculation. Since you mentioned working retail, I'm guessing you probably worked some extra hours during busy seasons like back-to-school or holidays, which could work in your favor. Also, one practical tip: when you do file online, the system might time out if you take too long on each page, so it's worth having all your employer information (like exact dates of employment, employer address, reason for separation) written down beforehand so you can fill it out quickly. The whole process took me about 20-30 minutes once I had everything organized. And honestly, seeing that determination letter with your actual calculated benefit amount is such a relief after all the uncertainty about what to expect!

I've been lurking on this thread for a while and finally decided to create an account because I'm in the exact same situation as everyone else here. I've been trying to get through to MA DUA for almost 3 weeks now and it's honestly starting to affect my mental health. Reading through all these comments has been both reassuring (knowing I'm not alone) and overwhelming (seeing how broken this system really is). I'm going to try the combo strategy that @StardustSeeker and @Dmitry Petrov mentioned - calling Tuesday at 10:12 AM with the comma trick and listening for music changes. I've also reached out to my state rep's office today based on @Amina Toure's suggestion. At this point I'm willing to try anything. Thank you all for sharing your experiences and tips - this community has been more helpful than any official government resource I've found. Here's hoping we all get the help we need soon! 🤞

I've been following this thread religiously and want to share my recent success story to give everyone hope! After 4 weeks of trying everything mentioned here, I finally got through yesterday using what I'm calling the "nuclear option" - I combined EVERYTHING. Here's exactly what I did: 1) Had my state rep submit an inquiry on Monday, 2) Called Tuesday at 10:13 AM using the comma trick (18003005616,1,,,,,,,,,,,,,2,4), 3) Used a bluetooth headset on low volume to listen for music changes, 4) Had backup phones ready to redial immediately if disconnected, and 5) literally took the day off work to focus entirely on this. It took 2 hours and 47 minutes on hold, but when that beautiful human voice finally answered, I almost cried! The rep was incredibly helpful and resolved my issue in 15 minutes. To everyone still fighting this battle - don't give up! The system is absolutely broken and we shouldn't have to do this, but persistence really does pay off. Also, keep detailed notes of every attempt - it helps with pattern recognition and gives you talking points if you do reach your state rep. You've got this! 💪✨

I'm in a very similar boat - been on hold for about 2 weeks now and already feeling the anxiety building up. This thread is honestly a goldmine of information that I wish was readily available on the DUA website itself! I just tried a few of the suggestions mentioned here and wanted to report back: 1. **Found the hidden "Document Upload" section** - uploaded my termination letter and final pay stub just to be safe 2. **Checked the Messages section separately** - thankfully no missed messages, but good to know this is a thing 3. **Located my local DUA office number** - planning to call them tomorrow morning instead of the main state line One thing I'm curious about - has anyone had success with the online chat feature during those late night hours (11 PM - 12 AM) that someone mentioned? I'm willing to stay up late if it means actually talking to a human being! Also, I wanted to echo what others have said about the mental health impact. The uncertainty is almost worse than the financial stress itself. Not knowing if you did something wrong or if it's just system backlog makes you second-guess everything. Thanks to everyone sharing their experiences and practical solutions. It's both reassuring and frustrating to know this is such a widespread problem, but at least we're not facing it alone! Will definitely keep filing weekly claims and update if any of these strategies work for me. 💙

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - the DUA system is absolutely brutal right now and the lack of communication makes everything so much worse. I went through something similar earlier this year (3+ months on hold) and it nearly broke me financially and mentally. A few things that eventually worked for me: **Document everything obsessively** - Create a spreadsheet with every call attempt, email, document upload, etc. with timestamps. This became crucial when I finally got through to someone. **Try the 6 AM strategy** - I know it sounds crazy, but I had success calling right at 6 AM when they're technically closed but the system sometimes connects you to the queue early. Got through twice this way. **Check your "Issues Summary" section** - Go to Unemployment Services > View Claim Details > Issues Summary. Sometimes there are pending issues listed there that don't show up anywhere else on the dashboard. **File with the Better Business Bureau** - I filed a complaint against DUA through the BBB website and got a response within 5 days. They seem to take BBB complaints more seriously than other channels. The "on hold" status in most cases means they're waiting to verify something - could be your identity, employment details, or separation reason. The system is just incredibly backlogged. Keep filing those weekly claims no matter what! When my hold finally lifted, I got 14 weeks of back pay within 3 days. The wait is excruciating but most people do eventually get their money. Hang in there - you're not alone in this nightmare! 💪

To all those having trouble reaching a human at Massachusetts Unemployment. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/ok4BhTU0_EI

From what I understand, Massachusetts typically allows backdating unemployment claims up to one year from the date you file, but there have been some special provisions during the pandemic. The specific deadline can vary depending on your situation and when you initially became unemployed. I'd recommend calling the DUA directly at (877) 626-6800 to get the most accurate information for your specific case, as they can review your eligibility and let you know exactly how far back you can backdate your claim.

I was in a similar situation last year and ended up getting less than expected because my previous job paid way less. The base period calculation really matters - don't just assume it'll be 50% of your current wage.

The base period calculation can definitely be tricky to understand. Since you mentioned you've been at this $1,000/week rate for 8 months, you'll want to check if that covers most of your base period quarters. Massachusetts DUA also has an online benefit calculator on their website that can give you a rough estimate based on your actual wage history. Just keep in mind that if you qualify for the maximum weekly benefit amount, there might be a waiting period before payments start, and you'll need to meet all the eligibility requirements like being available for work and actively seeking employment.