I went through a similar adjudication nightmare last year and understand your frustration completely. One thing that helped me was creating a daily call log with timestamps - not just for my own sanity, but because when I eventually got through (took about 4 weeks), the representative was able to see in their system how many times I'd attempted to call. She mentioned that multiple call attempts can sometimes flag an account for priority review, though I'm not sure if that's official policy or just her being helpful. Also, if you're really desperate to talk to someone, try calling the Paid Family Medical Leave line instead - they're separate but sometimes can transfer you or at least confirm what department your case is sitting with. The number is 1-833-717-2273. It's not guaranteed to work, but worth a shot when you're at your wit's end. Hang in there - the backpay will come once this clears!

I'm dealing with this exact same situation right now - been in adjudication for 2.5 weeks and can't get through to anyone! The stress is unreal, especially when you have bills piling up. I've tried calling at different times of day but always get that same automated hangup. Reading through everyone's responses here has been really helpful though. I'm going to try that Claimyr service that Zainab mentioned, and also start keeping a call log like Isaac suggested. It's somewhat comforting to know this is a common issue and that people do eventually get through it, even though the waiting is torture. Dmitry, I hope your situation gets resolved soon - keep filing those weekly claims and don't give up!

Quick update for those following this thread - ESD has actually created a specific Identity Theft form to streamline these reports. Go to esd.wa.gov, search for "Unemployment benefits fraud" and look for the secure form upload option. You'll need to provide ID documentation, but it creates a direct case in their system rather than relying on phone calls.

I went through this exact same situation about 8 months ago and it was definitely stressful at first, but I wanted to reassure you that it does get resolved! A few additional tips from my experience: 1) When you call, try to call right at 8am when they open - you'll have the best chance of getting through quickly. 2) Take screenshots of your online ESD account if you can access it (or if one was created without your knowledge) as evidence. 3) Ask them to send you written confirmation via email that they've received your fraud report - this helps if you need to provide proof to your employer or bank later. The whole process took about 6 weeks for me from start to finish, and they were actually pretty good about keeping me updated once I got the initial report filed. You've got this!

I actually had a similar situation a few months ago! One thing I'll add that others haven't mentioned - if your jury duty gets extended beyond the original summons dates (sometimes trials run longer than expected), make sure to update your weekly claims accordingly. I had jury duty that was supposed to be 3 days but ended up being 6 days, and I had to report the additional stipend payments in the following week's claim. Also, don't stress too much about the job search activities during jury duty week. You can do simple things like updating your resume, browsing job boards on your phone during breaks, or even networking with other jurors (you'd be surprised how many business connections happen during jury duty!). The key is just documenting that you made the effort to remain engaged in your job search despite the civic obligation. Hope your jury service goes smoothly and you don't have any issues with your benefits!

I'm going through jury duty selection right now and this thread has been incredibly helpful! Just wanted to add one more tip for anyone in this situation - when you're doing your weekly claim during jury duty week, make sure you file it on your normal day. Don't wait until after jury duty is over thinking you need to have "complete" information. The ESD system expects your claim on the same schedule regardless of temporary obligations like jury service. Also, if you're nervous about answering the questions correctly during your claim, you can always call the ESD customer service line beforehand to confirm how to handle your specific situation. I know the wait times are terrible, but having that official guidance recorded in your file can provide peace of mind. Good luck with your jury service!

One last tip - if your claim gets stuck in adjudication for some reason, don't panic. It happens sometimes but usually gets resolved. That Claimyr service people mentioned can help if you need to talk to someone about the status.

This is exactly the kind of situation where documenting everything pays off! Since your employer terminated you before your notice period ended, you're definitely looking at involuntary separation. The fact that you have text messages from your boss telling you not to come back is perfect evidence. Washington ESD will see this as them ending the employment relationship, not you quitting. Just be thorough when filling out your application - mention when you gave notice, when they terminated you, and that you have a job starting in a few weeks. The timing actually works out well since there's usually a waiting week anyway. You should be able to get benefits for those gap weeks without any issues.

The wait is brutal but try to stay positive. I know it's hard when bills are piling up but you'll get through this.

I'm in a similar situation - filed an appeal 4 weeks ago after being wrongfully denied for "voluntary quit" when I was actually laid off due to company restructuring. The waiting is absolutely brutal, especially with rent due soon. From what I'm reading here, it sounds like I need to brace myself for potentially 2-3 more months of waiting. Has anyone had success getting any kind of interim assistance while waiting for the appeal to go through?