First unemployment deposit is late, what should I check? after 11 years as a graphic designer

I applied for unemployment in Chicago 12 weeks ago and the status page still says pending. I am in Chicago, in case local advice matters. I called the state line four times and only reached a recording. Has anyone been through this? How long did it take in the end?

Keep certifying every week even while you wait. If they find you eligible, the weeks you certified are the ones that count.