One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is to document any attempts your employer made to contact you after the alleged "quit date." If they truly believed you quit, they probably wouldn't be reaching out about returning company property, asking about work handoffs, or sending final paperwork. Also, check your unemployment account online regularly - sometimes employers will submit additional documentation to try to support their claim after the initial determination. You'll want to see what they're saying and be prepared to counter it during your hearing. Another tip: if you had any scheduled shifts or meetings after the day you were terminated, that can help prove you were expecting to continue working and didn't quit. Bring any calendar screenshots or work schedules that show you were planning to be there. The May 25th hearing date gives you plenty of time to gather evidence. Use that time wisely and organize everything in a clear timeline. You're going to do great!

I'm really sorry you're going through this stressful situation, but it sounds like you're building a solid case for your appeal! Based on everything you've shared, you have several strong pieces of evidence: 1. The email from your supervisor mentioning "your position has been eliminated" - this is HUGE because it directly contradicts their claim that you quit 2. Your unused vacation payout on the final paycheck - employers typically don't pay this out for voluntary quits 3. Text messages showing your immediate shock about being fired 4. The follow-up emails about returning company property Make sure to organize all of this chronologically and bring multiple copies to your hearing. The fact that your employer has no resignation letter, notice, or any documentation of you quitting while you have multiple pieces of evidence showing you were terminated gives you a really strong position. One more suggestion: when you're at the hearing, if the employer claims you quit, ask them directly "Can you please show the referee my resignation letter or any written notice I gave?" Put the burden on them to produce evidence they don't have. Stay calm and factual, and let your evidence speak for itself. You've got this - employers who lie about separation reasons often get caught because they can't back up their claims with documentation. Good luck on May 25th!

Just to follow up - did you ever get your payment? I'm curious if it was the card expiration issue or just the normal delay for first payments.

UPDATE: The money finally showed up on my card this morning! So it took exactly 6 business days from the \

One important thing to note: if you're approaching your benefit exhaustion, make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even for the week you receive your final payment. Sometimes people stop filing when benefits run out, but if any extensions are authorized later, you need unbroken weekly claims to qualify automatically. Also, your RESEA participation should have connected you with enhanced job placement services - be sure to follow up with that program coordinator specifically.

Hey Jamal, I went through something similar in 2023 after my factory job ended. One thing that really helped me was signing up with temp agencies that specialize in manufacturing - they often have short-term assignments that can tide you over while you search for permanent work. Places like Aerotek, Kelly Services, and Manpower usually have industrial positions that pay decent wages. Even if it's just a few weeks here and there, it gives you income and keeps your skills sharp. Also, don't overlook utility companies and hospitals - they often need maintenance staff with manufacturing backgrounds and the pay is usually solid. I know it's scary when benefits are running out, but you've got experience and that certificate from RESEA, so hang in there!

Update: Just wanted to let everyone know I finally got my determination letter in the mail today! It took exactly 17 days after the hearing. The referee ruled in my favor! Now I'm just waiting for the payments to hit my account. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and advice!

Congrats Jamal! That's such great news and gives me hope for everyone else still waiting. 17 days is right in that sweet spot everyone was mentioning. Thanks for coming back to update us - so many people post their questions but never follow up with the outcome. Hope your payments come through quickly!