Just wanted to add some context on why these waivers are taking so long currently. ESD implemented a new case management system in late 2025 that created a backlog of waiver reviews. They've also been dealing with a surge of new overpayment cases due to the automated cross-matching with employer wage reports. The current staff handling waivers is about half what it was two years ago. This isn't to excuse the delays, but to help you understand you're not being singled out - it's a systemic issue affecting thousands of claimants right now. One thing I do recommend is checking that your contact information is up-to-date in the system. Sometimes they've tried to reach people for additional information but had outdated phone numbers or email addresses.

UPDATE: I tried calling the collections option this morning right at 8am and actually got through to someone after about 45 minutes! The agent confirmed my waiver is still pending review but added notes to my account about my financial hardship and put a temporary hold on collections for 30 days. She said that should give enough time for the waiver team to review my case. She couldn't guarantee approval but at least I know they haven't lost my paperwork and collections won't start immediately. Thank you all for your helpful advice! I'll update again once I hear the final decision.

my cousin had this exact same thing happen and he ended up having to wait 3 months total! but he did eventually get ALL the back pay. so at least you'll eventually get a big chunk of money all at once... small consolation i know when bills are due now

Since your employer is contesting your claim, you should prepare for a possible appeal if your claim is denied. Washington has a process where you can appeal a determination within 30 days. Document everything related to your layoff, and if possible, get statements from former coworkers who can confirm you were part of a workforce reduction. In the meantime, you might want to inquire about hardship assistance through DSHS or local community organizations while you wait for your unemployment benefits to come through. Many counties have emergency rental assistance programs that can help bridge the gap.

One more thing to be aware of - if your overpayment was due to fraud (like if someone else filed using your information), those are NOT eligible for waivers. But if it was a legitimate mistake or ESD's error, you should be good. Also, make sure you respond to any requests for additional information immediately - they only give you 5 business days to respond before potentially denying the waiver.

That's good to know. Mine wasn't fraud - they originally approved me when I was laid off, then a year later decided I didn't qualify for some technical reason I never fully understood. I'll keep checking my portal and mail daily to make sure I don't miss anything.

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.

CONGRATS!!! It's so ridiculous we have to jump through all these hoops just to get what we're entitled to. Glad you got it resolved!

That's great news! Thanks for updating us. Hope your payments come through quickly.