Backcountry permit frustrations

Another week, another $10 down the drain for a failed backcountry permit lottery. I've been doing this for 4 years now, and have spent over $300 trying to win a permit to no avail. I know that the remaining permits open up 7 days before, but with my work I have to plan weeks in advance. Worst of all, rec.gov has referred me to the permit office, while the permit office refers me to rec.gov so what am I supposed to do? What am I doing wrong here? Please don't say "find another trail to backpack" - I know this and ultimately do, but I find it absolutely crazy that I've donated to crookz allen hamilton this much money and have nothing to show for it.

Sorry for the rant, I'm just so frustrated :(