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Early morning is definitely better - try right when they open at 8:00 AM. However, Tuesdays through Thursdays tend to have slightly lower call volumes than Mondays and Fridays. Also, if you do call, have your claim ID and last 4 of your SSN ready, and be prepared to verify your identity. The more prepared you are, the faster they can assist you once you get through.
I've tried calling right at 8am multiple times and STILL couldn't get through!! The ESD phone system is completely broken. It just says "all representatives are busy" and hangs up on you. I ended up having to drive to my local WorkSource office and have them help me contact someone. If your claims don't process soon, that might be another option.
UPDATE: Just wanted to let everyone know what happened. One payment finally showed up in my account this morning! It was for the week ending Jan 7th. The other claim is still in processing status. Seems like they're working through the backlog after the holiday. Thanks for all the advice - I'll give the second payment a few more days before trying to contact ESD. At least I can pay part of my rent now!
not to be mean but i think the rules say you cant leave your labor market area while on unemployment... my cousin got caught with this too
If you appeal, GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING from his employer about the work situation!!! I lost my appeal because I didn't have written proof that there was no work available during my time away. The judge was completely unsympathetic even though I was telling the truth. The system is RIGGED against workers!!
That's a good point. I'll ask my husband to get something in writing from his boss confirming there was no work during that period. Did you use a lawyer for your appeal, or did you represent yourself?
my friend works at esd (not supposed to tell anyone lol) but she said they added a bunch of new options to everyone's accounts last month. something about "streamlining the user experience" whatever that means. if u dont have an actual notice u should be fine
This is correct. ESD implemented a UI update in February 2025 that standardized the dashboard options across all user accounts. It's part of their new "comprehensive self-service portal" initiative. The standardization means all users see the same options regardless of whether they apply to their specific situation. It's confusing many claimants, but if there's no actual overpayment notice or determination, there's no overpayment to be concerned about.
I just want to clarify something important about overpayments with ESD, since there seems to be some confusion in this thread: 1. Overpayments are NEVER a surprise - they are always accompanied by a formal written determination that explains why the overpayment occurred, how much you owe, and your appeal rights 2. You would have a specific timeframe (30 days) to appeal the determination 3. The waiver application option is separate from an actual overpayment determination 4. ESD has 3 years from the date of payment to establish an overpayment The system update adding this option to everyone's dashboard is unfortunately causing unnecessary anxiety for many claimants. For future reference, always check your ESD message center and mail for official determinations before worrying about dashboard options.
The phone system is frustrating by design. I've worked with hundreds of ESD claimants and the most effective approach actually isn't calling repeatedly. Try these alternatives: 1. Use the eServices secure message system - responses typically come within 4-7 business days 2. Visit a WorkSource center in person (bring ID) - they can't resolve adjudication issues but can often tell you what's holding up your claim 3. Contact your state representative's office - they have liaison channels 4. If your claim is in adjudication, understand that constant calling won't speed it up That said, if you absolutely must speak with someone by phone, the specialized services mentioned above (like Claimyr) do work for many people. The key is understanding that ESD is dealing with thousands of claims - persistence and patience are unfortunately necessary.
4-7 days?? people got bills NOW not next week!! easy 2 say be patient when ur not the 1 who cant pay rent
UPDATE: I finally got through! Used the 7:58am trick and pressed the number sequence mentioned above. Got placed in queue after my 7th attempt. Waited 55 minutes but finally spoke to a real person who fixed my claim issue. My adjudication was completed while I was on the phone and payments should process tonight. THANK YOU all for the advice!!!
Freya Pedersen
Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! I'm going to skip filing weekly claims until after my severance payment on 9/15, then reopen my claim around 9/16. Sounds like this is the simplest approach and will save me from doing unnecessary job search activities. I'll make sure to keep documentation of my final regular pay and severance payment in case ESD asks for it during the reopening process.
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Diego Vargas
That's a good plan. Just remember that if your financial situation changes or you have questions during this waiting period, you can always contact ESD for clarification. Good luck with your job search when you begin that process!
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