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Anybody else notice adjudication takes WAY longer now than it did during COVID times? Back in 2021 I got through adjudication in like 10 days. Now they're taking months for some people. It's like they went back to not caring once the pandemic spotlight was off them.
Update: I took everyone's advice and kept filing my weekly claims. I also sent an additional message with a clear explanation letter about the retirement withdrawal being one-time and emergency-based. Still waiting but at least I feel like I've done everything possible. Thanks for all the support and information - this community has been super helpful while I navigate this stress.
I work in HR and see this constantly with our former employees. The problem is often that employers report wages to ESD quarterly, and sometimes there are discrepancies in how those reports get processed. The most common issues are with multi-state employers, name discrepancies on paystubs vs. SSA records, or employers who changed payroll systems mid-year. My advice: Call ESD again and specifically ask for a "wage investigation" to be added to your adjudication. This flags your case in a specific way that ensures all your documentation gets properly reviewed. And make sure ALL your paystubs are clearly labeled with which employer they're from if you worked multiple jobs.
To follow up on my earlier comment about standby status - if your start date is September 30, 2025, and you apply for standby now, you should be within the 12-week window. Make sure you upload your job offer letter with the specific start date clearly shown when you apply for standby. While waiting for standby approval, continue doing your job search activities just to be safe. Regarding the week you missed, you might be able to file an appeal for that specific week if it gets denied, explaining your misunderstanding of the requirements.
Has anyone else noticed that ESD seems to be flagging literally EVERYTHING for review lately? My coworker got flagged for "inconsistent work search activities" because he applied for jobs in two different industries. Like, hello? People need work wherever they can find it!
Update: I changed my direct deposit info yesterday and it went through fine! The system showed a confirmation message right away, and I took a screenshot like someone suggested. Also called ESD using that Claimyr service someone mentioned above and the agent confirmed the change was processed and my next payment should go to the new account without any delays. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for the advice!
CosmicCadet
I don't mean to go off-topic, but I'm in a similar situation with my husband's PCS orders to South Korea. Did you also have trouble with the "actively seeking work" requirements? How are you handling job searches from overseas? I'm worried about that part of my claim.
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Carmen Reyes
•That's a good question! I've been applying for positions at the base Family Readiness Center and AAFES. There are also remote work opportunities with US companies that I'm pursuing. For job search activities, I'm counting online applications, networking with spouse employment groups, and attending virtual job fairs specifically for military spouses. You need to document 3 job search activities each week, and these all qualify.
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CosmicCadet
•Thank you! I didn't realize virtual job fairs would count. That's super helpful. Good luck with your appeal - please update us when you hear something!
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Jamal Thompson
One more thing to remember in your appeal: be sure to include the relevant parts of the UCMJ and Joint Travel Regulations that pertain to command-sponsored dependents. These federal regulations supersede state-level interpretations about your availability for work. Also, if you're having trouble getting through on the phone to discuss your appeal, try calling right when they open at 8:00 AM Pacific time - that's when wait times are shortest.
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Carmen Reyes
•I've been trying that early morning strategy for a week with no luck. Either constant busy signals or 3+ hour wait times that disconnect before I reach anyone. It's maddening!
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