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I had a similar situation last year but it was about my job separation reason. This whole thing reminded me that I also had trouble with my identity verification taking forever before that. The system kept saying my driver's license didn't match their records even though I triple checked everything. Then my neighbor told me her cousin works at ESD and apparently they're super understaffed since 2020. Anyway, hope you get it sorted out soon!
UPDATE: I finally got through to ESD this morning! Used the Claimyr service that someone recommended here, and it worked perfectly. Was connected to an agent in about 30 minutes. Turns out my adjudication was delayed because they needed additional information about my availability during a specific week. The agent scheduled a phone interview for next Tuesday and said my claim should be processed shortly after that if everything checks out. Thank you all for the helpful advice! I'll update again after my interview.
Great news! For the phone interview, have your work search documentation ready and be prepared to explain any weeks where you indicated limited availability. They'll likely ask specific questions about your work search efforts and any potential barriers to accepting work. Answer honestly but make it clear you're actively seeking and available for suitable employment.
UPDATE: Finally got through to ESD this morning! Used the advice from this thread and specifically asked for a backdate adjustment for my reopened claim. The agent was really helpful once I explained everything clearly. They backdated my claim reopening to 3/16 and said last week will now count as my waiting week instead of this week. Payment for this week should process in the next 48 hours! Such a relief - thank you all for your help!
YES report it as fraud ASAP!! Call the fraud hotline at 800-246-9763 thats different from regular esd number. they take fraud calls quicker and can put a special flag on ur account.
To follow up on your question about alternatives if you don't qualify for regular UI due to insufficient W-2 hours: Unfortunately, the pandemic-era programs that covered self-employed workers (PUA) have ended. If you don't qualify for regular UI, you might want to look into: 1. WorkSource job placement services 2. DSHS emergency assistance programs 3. Local workforce development programs that might offer retraining 4. Apply anyway and appeal if denied - sometimes ESD misses eligible wages in their system And yes, absolutely apply even if you're unsure about qualifying. The formal determination is necessary if you need to appeal or pursue other options.
@OP regarding the Claimyr service I mentioned earlier - yes, it definitely worked for me. It's not sketchy at all - they basically just help you navigate the ESD phone system and get placed in the callback queue properly. Once they connect you, you're talking directly with ESD. I was skeptical too but was desperate after trying for days. The agent I got was able to explain exactly what I needed for my new claim application after my benefit year ended.
Olivia Martinez
wait are we supposed to do job searches on christmas week too??? i thought holidays meant we didnt have to do those??
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Mia Green
•Yes, you still need to complete your 3 job search activities even during holiday weeks. ESD doesn't waive job search requirements for holidays. However, you can be strategic about it - attending a virtual WorkSource workshop counts as an activity and can be easier than applying for jobs during the holiday week. Or you can do all 3 activities earlier in the week before the holiday.
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Charlie Yang
Just for future reference (and for anyone else reading this thread later), ESD actually posts their holiday payment schedules on their website usually about 2-3 weeks before each major holiday. You can find it under "Announcements" on the main dashboard after you log in. It's not always prominent, but it's there if you look for it. I just checked my account and they haven't posted the Christmas 2025 schedule yet, but based on past years, Monday the 23rd is almost certainly when payments will process. I've been through four holiday seasons on unemployment (unfortunately) and they've been very consistent with this pattern.
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Sophia Rodriguez
•Thanks for the tip about where to find the announcements! I'll keep checking there over the next week to see if they post the official schedule. Really appreciate everyone's help here - feeling much more prepared now.
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