When I was stuck waiting for an adjudication decision, calling ESD directly helped speed things up. But good luck actually getting through to them! I spent days trying to call before using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to connect with an agent. They have a video demo (https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3) that shows how it works. The service connected me to an ESD rep who could see exactly where my claim was stuck and got it moving again. Regarding your employer appeal question - yes, they can appeal, but they need to have valid grounds (proving actual misconduct), not just disagreeing with ESD's decision. I went through an appeal hearing last year, and it was intimidating but fair. The Administrative Law Judge was very thorough in reviewing all evidence.

One last bit of advice - document EVERYTHING. If your claim is approved and your employer appeals, you'll want copies of all communications, especially anything that contradicts what they might claim about your separation. Also, if you do end up with an OAH hearing, prepare thoroughly. Review all the documentation they send you beforehand, write out your key points, and be ready to clearly explain your side. The hearings are relatively formal but fair - the judges want to get to the truth. And a positive note: in my observation, ESD's initial determinations are upheld in the majority of appeal cases, especially when they've done a thorough adjudication process like they seem to be doing in your case.

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.

Have you considered looking into other benefits that might help bridge the gap? Sometimes when UI runs out, people qualify for programs like: - SNAP (food benefits) - Energy assistance programs - Temporary hardship assistance through DSHS Not ideal, but might help keep things afloat until work picks up again. Also, check with WorkSource - they sometimes have special programs for dislocated workers that include short-term financial assistance.

One more thought: since you mentioned having kids, make sure you've filed for all tax credits you're eligible for this year. The Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit can provide significant help if you had reduced income last year. If you've already filed, great, but if not, these credits might provide some additional funds to help bridge the gap until you find steady work again.

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.

Just called the fraud line and left a message with all my info. They said someone will call back within 48 hours. This is such a nightmare but at least I'm taking all the right steps now. Thanks for the suggestion!

For those in adjudication, here's what's likely happening: When a claim requires adjudication, it gets assigned to a specialist who reviews all documentation, may contact your employer, and determines eligibility based on law/policy. The issue is ESD is severely backlogged on these specialist reviews, despite hiring more staff over the past year. Standard wait times currently are: - Regular UI adjudication: 4-6 weeks - Quit/Fired issues: 5-8 weeks - Complex wage disputes: 6-10 weeks The governor's office trick works because they can flag your claim for expedited review, essentially jumping the queue. State representatives can do the same. It's not fair, but it's unfortunately how the system is working right now.

My adjudication took 7 weeks last month, but I never thought to call the governor's office. That's actually pretty smart. My issue was that I had two employers in my base year and one of them disputed my hours. Eventually got resolved in my favor but the wait was terrible. Glad you finally got paid!