DES MOINES, Iowa — The number of Iowans filing for unemployment continues to go up.
Over $23 million in unemployment benefits went out to Iowans last week.
However, some are frustrated that they haven't received their benefits after filing.
“At the beginning of April is when I originally filed," said Nathan Flores. "I’ve been filing every week like I’m supposed to and just keep getting told to wait, wait, wait. I have not received a dime."
Local 5's Lakyn McGee called the unemployment help line. They told her the people answering the phones are only temps and that employees can only back log claims or make changes. They couldn't say when an employee would be able to look at certain issues raised.
“We have to pay rent, we have light bills, all these other bills like childcare and all this other necessity stuff that we need," said Meko, another frustrated Iowan. "Something has to be done.”
Flores said if it wasn't for his family he'd be homeless.
Local 5 reached out to the Iowa Workforce Development. We had an interview scheduled, but they canceled just a couple hours before we were supposed to do so. They told us they know people are frustrated, but if you’re having issues to keep calling and they will get to them as soon as they can.