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There seems to be some confusion about the regulations. While being a union member doesn't waive the 680-hour requirement, there IS something called the "alternate base year" calculation that might help. If you don't qualify using the standard base year (first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters), ESD can use the alternate base year (the 4 most recently completed calendar quarters). This might capture more work hours for you and potentially qualify you. But again, you still need 680 hours total - that part doesn't change. Also, check with your union welfare office. Many unions have hardship funds or other assistance programs specifically for members between jobs who've exhausted benefits. The hall should have information about these resources.
Update: I called ESD this morning (finally got through after using Claimyr) and got confirmation that there's no union exception to the 680-hour rule. The agent checked my account and I only have about 450 hours in my base year. She suggested I look into the Commissioner Approved Training program if I want to take some classes while waiting to build more hours. Thanks everyone for your help - at least now I know where I stand and can plan accordingly.
Glad you got a definitive answer! The Commissioner Approved Training is a good suggestion if you're interested in upskilling while waiting for dispatch. It allows you to collect benefits while attending approved training programs without having to look for work. Might be worth considering if dispatch remains slow.
When I got laid off last year I had a similar situation with my side business. Make sure you're super clear about your availability during the application process! I almost got disqualified because they thought I wasn't available for full-time work because of my side gig. Had to appeal and everything. What a headache!
Yes, you should restart your weekly claims immediately. You may have lost those 3 weeks unless you can show good cause for not filing (and 'I didn't know I had to' usually doesn't count as good cause). The requirement to file weekly continues throughout the appeal process - think of it as preserving your potential eligibility while your case is decided.
I had a similar experience but with a different outcome. My overpayment was because ESD initially approved me for $684/week but then recalculated 6 months later and said I should've only gotten $425/week. Had to pay back over $5,000! Judge said since I received more than I was eligible for, even though it was their calculation error, I still had to repay it. I did get a payment plan though. Really depends on the specific reason for your overpayment.
Zainab Ibrahim
One more thing to try - send a message through your eServices account specifically asking about the status of your identity verification. Sometimes that can flag your account for review. Just be super specific in the subject line like "Urgent - Identity Verification Hold - 5 Weeks Without Benefits" - that helped in my case!
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Miguel Ramos
•Just did that right now! I'm trying everything at this point. This whole process is so frustrating.
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Connor O'Brien
i hate to say this but my claim was stuck for almost 3 months!! i called every day for weeks. then i contacted my state representative's office and suddenly my claim was fixed in 2 days. might be worth trying if nothing else works
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Paolo Rizzo
•This is actually excellent advice. Your state representatives have liaisons who can directly contact ESD on your behalf. This is particularly helpful for claims stuck in identity verification or adjudication for extended periods. Just visit your state legislature's website to find your representatives and their contact information.
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