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why is esd so impossibly bad at everything????? ive been on unemployment 3 times and every single time theres some kind of stupid system problem that takes weeks to fix. its like they WANT us to make mistakes so they can deny benefits. absolutely maddening.
RIGHT??? like how hard would it be to just have a basic correction option on the website?? my cousin works for the state (not ESD) and she says their systems are all from like 1995 🙄
I wanted to follow up on this thread. OP, if you get through to ESD, make sure to ask them specifically about a "BYE date adjustment" - using that exact terminology. The claims specialists know this procedure, but some of the frontline agents may not. Also, just to clarify something important: when you file for those weeks before you were laid off, be 100% honest about your work status. Don't try to game the system by reporting you weren't working if you were. That could lead to an overpayment determination or worse, fraud allegations. Lastly, document everything. Keep track of all communications, including dates and times of calls, names of representatives you speak with, and confirmation numbers for any changes made. This will be invaluable if there are issues later.
Thank you! I managed to get through to ESD this morning using the Claimyr service someone recommended. The agent was able to submit a request to correct my BYE date, though she said it would take 7-10 business days to process. In the meantime, she advised me to go ahead and file my weekly claims honestly (reporting that I was working those weeks). Really appreciate everyone's help!
Just to follow up on your question about multiple appeals - I checked with a colleague who specializes in OAH processes. When you have two separate appeals, OAH will typically process them based on filing date. However, if they're related issues (like a disqualification and subsequent overpayment), they may consolidate them into a single hearing. One thing that might help speed up the process: if your appeal involves financial hardship (which it sounds like it does), you can request an expedited hearing. This isn't guaranteed, but sometimes helps. Call OAH directly and explain your financial situation - they may be able to prioritize your case.
I didn't know expedited hearings were even an option! Both appeals are related to the same job separation but different issues (first is a quit/discharge determination, second is about ability to work). I'll definitely mention the financial hardship when I call - my eviction notice just arrived yesterday so that should qualify...
Once your hearing is finally scheduled, make sure you're fully prepared. The judge will give each side time to present their case. Have all your documentation organized chronologically and be ready to clearly explain your side. If your employer shows up (they often don't), don't interrupt them even if they say things you disagree with - you'll get your chance to respond. And stick to the facts related to your separation/eligibility issues rather than getting emotional or going off on tangents about unrelated workplace problems.
This is excellent advice. I'd add that you should also prepare a concise opening statement (2-3 minutes) that summarizes your position and the key points you want to make. Practice it beforehand so you sound confident. Also, if you have witnesses who can support your case, make sure they're available for the hearing date. You can request a continuance if key witnesses can't make the scheduled date, but it's better to have everyone ready to go if possible.
have u tried emailing ur state representative? my brother did that when his claim was stuck and suddenly esd called him like 2 days later lol
Update: Just got off the phone with ESD after using the Claimyr service someone recommended above. The agent told me my claim is delayed because they're waiting for my former employer to respond to their inquiry. Apparently, they have 10 business days to do so, and that period just ended yesterday. The agent said my claim should move forward within 7-10 days now, whether my employer responded or not. She also noted that my doctor's notes were properly attached to my file, which was a relief. So now I wait...again...but at least I know what's happening!
This is great progress! Having a timeline and understanding the specific cause of the delay makes the waiting more bearable. The fact that they confirmed your doctor's notes are in the system is especially important - that documentation will be crucial in the adjudication decision. Keep filing those weekly claims and you should see movement soon.
Just to add something important here: WorkSource workshops absolutely DO count as job search activities! They're actually one of the best ways to fulfill the requirement when you're working partial hours because: 1. Many workshops are available online now 2. Some are offered evenings/weekends 3. One workshop counts as one activity 4. They're free You can register for them through WorkSourceWA.com. Using these for 1-2 of your activities each week can make the job search requirement much more manageable while working part-time.
This is super helpful! I'll look into the workshop schedule right away. Do you happen to know if attending the same type of workshop multiple weeks in a row counts, or do they need to be different workshops?
They should be different workshops to count as separate activities. But there are plenty to choose from - resume writing, interview skills, industry-specific sessions, etc. Just make sure to get documentation of attendance for your records!
Update: I used Claimyr today and finally got through to ESD! The agent confirmed I DO need to do job searches even with partial employment since my standby was denied. She also explained I can reapply for standby if my return to full-time date is within 4 weeks now. For anyone else in my situation - they said workshops definitely count and recommended keeping extra detailed records of all job search activities. Thanks everyone for your help with this!
Luca Romano
when i got unemploymnet in 2018 i didnt have taxes taken out and wow did i regret it at tax time lol. ur doing it the smart way trust me
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Diego Vargas
•same happened to me during covid! owed like $1800 in taxes i wasnt expecting ðŸ˜
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Chloe Anderson
One more thing to be aware of - sometimes ESD will adjust your claim amount slightly based on other factors. For example, if you had any part-time earnings during a week, or if there was an offset for something like child support. The adjustment might not be taxes in those cases. But since you mentioned this is your first payment and the difference is almost exactly 10%, tax withholding is definitely what you're seeing.
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Omar Hassan
•Thanks for the extra info! No adjustments in my case - I haven't worked at all since filing and don't have any child support. I found the tax withholding section as another person suggested and it definitely shows the 10% coming out. Feeling much better now knowing everything is normal!
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