UPDATE: I finally got through today! I tried the Claimyr service that someone mentioned in the comments and was connected to an ESD agent within about 90 minutes. The agent was actually super helpful - turns out my former employer did contest the claim saying I quit (I didn't), but the adjudicator hadn't processed all the documentation I uploaded at the beginning. The agent escalated my case and said I should have a decision within 3-5 business days. She also put a hardship flag on my account because of my potential eviction situation. Thanks everyone for the advice! I'll update when I hear about the decision.

i had something similar happen with my former job. they tried saying i was fired for misconduct when actually they eliminated my whole department!! make sure u have any emails or paperwork showing it was a layoff. the adjudicator might call u for a phone interview to explain ur side.

To follow up on my earlier comment, since your appeal was specifically about a 2020 claim, the judge's decision should make ESD process your claim under the rules that were in effect at that time. This includes: 1. Job search requirements were waived for much of 2020, so you likely won't need to provide that documentation 2. The additional pandemic benefits (FPUC $600/week, later $300/week) should apply to eligible weeks 3. Extended benefits like PEUC would apply if you exhausted regular UI However, be prepared for this to take time. ESD's systems weren't designed to retroactively process claims from years ago, especially for programs that no longer exist. Document everything and be persistent with your follow-ups.

ESD typically has 30 days to implement an OAH judge's decision. However, complex cases involving backdating to pandemic programs may take longer due to the technical challenges. If you haven't seen any action after 30 days, you should contact the Office of Administrative Hearings to inquire about enforcement of the decision. Remember to keep copies of the judge's decision letter and all correspondence with ESD about this matter.

just be prepared for how SLOW the waiver process is!! took 4+ months for them to review mine and then they denied it anyway 😡 they don't make it easy on purpose

I want to thank everyone for all this helpful information. I finally reached an ESD agent this morning using that Claimyr service someone recommended, and they confirmed I can pursue both the Commissioner's Review and a waiver simultaneously! The agent actually emailed me all the necessary waiver forms while we were on the phone and walked me through what documentation I'll need to provide. They also said that even if everything gets denied, I can still set up a payment plan as low as $50/month if I demonstrate financial hardship. I feel like I finally have a path forward instead of just panicking. Will update once I hear back about either process. Thank you all again for sharing your experiences!

One more thing - since you mentioned relocating for a spouse's job transfer, make sure you understand the exact legal standard for that exception. Under WAC 192-150-120, it's considered good cause to quit if your spouse's employer required the transfer, it's outside your normal commuting area, and you stayed employed as long as was reasonable prior to the move. Focus your testimony on these specific elements and you'll have a much better chance of success.

By the way, don't forget to check your mail/email obsessively after the hearing. I kept checking the ESD website for my decision, but it actually came by regular mail about 10 days later. The judge didn't tell me the decision during the hearing - apparently they almost never do. Good luck with everything and let us know how it goes!

APPLY NOW!!! if u wait ur only hurting urself!! even if it takes long to get approved theyll backpay to when u first applied. dont listen to ppl saying u wont get it, nobody here knows ur exact situation. its FREE to apply so why not do it????

One important detail to remember: when you file your weekly claims while waiting for a decision, make sure you accurately report any job search activities. ESD has become stricter about verifying these, and you need at least 3 qualifying activities each week. Keep detailed records including company names, contact information, job titles, and application methods. This will save you headaches later if they audit your job search activities.