Thanks everyone for all this information. As someone who might be facing this choice soon, it's really helpful to understand that these are mutually exclusive benefits in Washington state. Better to know now than find out the hard way later.

I've been following this thread and wanted to add some perspective as someone who works in benefits counseling. The frustration here is totally understandable - the system really does put people in impossible positions. One thing that might help is looking into local disability advocacy organizations or legal aid clinics. Many offer free consultations to help people understand their options and navigate the application process. They can also help you understand if there are any other safety net programs you might qualify for during gaps in coverage. The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) also has caseworkers who can do benefits planning - they can walk you through all available programs and help you strategize the best approach for your specific situation.

The bottom line is Washington ESD has multiple ways to detect unreported work. Data matching, employer reports, audits, tips from other people, etc. The risk of getting caught is high and the penalties are severe. Always report all work on your weekly claims.

I went through something similar last year and made the mistake of not reporting some freelance work I was doing. Washington ESD found out during their quarterly wage matching process and I had to pay back about $2,800 plus a penalty. The stress wasn't worth it at all. My advice is to call them immediately (maybe use that Claimyr service others mentioned since their phone lines are impossible) and voluntarily disclose the unreported work. They're usually more lenient when you come forward yourself rather than them catching you. Also, even if the work seems "minor" or irregular, it ALL needs to be reported - there's no minimum threshold. Better to be overly cautious than face the penalties later.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - 5 weeks in pending resolution with no explanation. Reading through all these responses is both helpful and terrifying! It sounds like the timeline is completely unpredictable. I've been trying to call ESD every day but like everyone else, can't get through. The stress of not knowing what's being investigated or how much longer it might take is really getting to me. At least I know I'm not alone in this situation. Has anyone had success with contacting their state rep's office? That seems like it might be worth trying at this point.

I'm in week 4 of pending resolution and this thread is both reassuring and terrifying at the same time! It's good to know I'm not the only one dealing with this nightmare, but seeing people wait 8-10 weeks makes me want to cry. I was laid off from my marketing job due to budget cuts, so like @Nia Thompson it should be straightforward, but here we are. I've been religiously filing my weekly claims even though nothing is getting paid out. The worst part is having absolutely no idea what they're even investigating or if there's anything I can do to speed it up. My savings are almost gone and I'm starting to panic about next month's bills. Has anyone tried calling multiple times per day or is that just a waste of time?

I'm currently going through this same process and wanted to share what I've learned. My Commissioner's Review has been pending for about 2 months now. One thing that's helped me mentally is setting up a realistic timeline - based on what everyone's shared here, I'm planning for 4-6 months minimum. A few practical tips that have helped me: - I set up automatic transfers to move any small amounts to savings when possible, even $10-20 - Applied for utility assistance programs before I got behind on bills - Started a simple spreadsheet tracking my appeal timeline and job search activities - Found local food banks and community resources as backup options The waiting is absolutely brutal, but try to use this time to build as many safety nets as possible. Also, if you haven't already, document EVERYTHING about your original job separation - dates, emails, witness contacts, etc. Sometimes people remember additional details during the long wait that could strengthen their case. Hang in there! The system is slow but don't give up hope.

I went through the Commissioner's Review process in early 2024 and it took exactly 19 weeks for my case. What really helped me during the wait was creating a "survival budget" - I cut everything non-essential and found every possible assistance program I qualified for. One thing I wish I'd known earlier: if you have any new evidence or documentation that wasn't submitted during your OAH hearing, you CAN still submit it to the Commissioner's Review Office. I found an old email from my supervisor that supported my case and submitted it 6 weeks into the review process. Also, try calling ESD early in the morning (right at 8 AM) or late in the afternoon after 4 PM - I had better luck getting through during those times. The wait times were still long but at least I didn't get disconnected as often. Keep filing those weekly claims no matter what, and if you're approved, you'll get backpay for every week you properly claimed. The lump sum was a lifesaver when it finally came through. Stay strong - I know how exhausting this process is!

Just wanted to add that you should also think about healthcare if you're on any kind of state assistance or Medicaid. That stuff doesn't transfer between states like unemployment does, so you'll need to reapply in Oregon if you're using those services.

One thing I'd add is to make sure you keep detailed records of your job search activities, especially during the transition period while you're moving. Washington ESD might ask for documentation, and having everything organized will make your life easier if any questions come up. Also, consider setting up a Google Voice number or similar service that forwards to your cell phone - that way you have a consistent contact number for potential employers even if you're switching phone plans or providers during the move. The job market for graphic design in the Pacific Northwest is definitely interconnected between Seattle and Portland, so networking contacts you've made in Washington might actually help you in Oregon too.