Waiting 8 weeks on my first unemployment payment (Raleigh)

I filed my claim 8 weeks ago after being let go as a dental hygienist. I am in Raleigh, in case local advice matters. I called the state line four times and only reached a recording. Is there a step I could have missed?

Mine took about 8 weeks because of an identity check I did not notice. Look for a message or a letter you may have missed in your online account.

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It saved me later.