my friend applied back in october and just got approved last week so looks like theyre SUPER behind right now. hang in there man

UPDATE: For anyone following this thread, ESD just published an official notice on their website about current processing times. They've acknowledged the delays and stated they're currently working through November applications, with most December applications expected to be processed by the end of February. They've also temporarily added 45 additional claims processors to address the backlog. If your claim has been pending for more than 8 weeks with no issues identified, they recommend submitting a claim escalation request through your eServices secure message center.

Make sure you're meeting the job search requirements once you start claiming!!! They're super strict about this now - you need to document 3 job search activities EVERY WEEK and be ready to submit them if they audit you. I got caught on this and had to pay back two weeks of benefits because I didn't realize the requirements had changed. Don't make my mistake!!!

I process UI claims for a major employer (not ESD) and can confirm W2 contract workers definitely qualify when laid off before the end date. The system is actually designed with situations like yours in mind. One important thing - be extra careful how you answer the separation reason question. Select "laid off due to lack of work" NOT "end of contract/assignment." The second option can trigger unnecessary investigation that delays your claim. And don't select "quit" even though it might seem like the contract is ending - this was a termination initiated by the employer. Also, if they put you on any kind of standby or suggest they might rehire you soon, be very careful. If you indicate potential recall on your application, it changes your job search requirements and can complicate things. Based on what you described, a clean layoff is what happened.

Make sure you track EVERYTHING if you take this job. I got hit with an overpayment because I estimated my hours one week when I couldn't find my timesheet. Keep a separate calendar just for your work hours and take screenshots of any communication about your schedule. ESD will eventually audit you and you'll need proof.

One additional consideration: if you decline this job offer, ESD might consider it refusing suitable work, which could jeopardize your current benefits entirely. When determining if work is "suitable," they look at factors like: - How the wages compare to the prevailing wage in your area for that type of work - Your physical fitness for the job - Risk to your health and safety - Your prior training and experience - The distance from your home They generally don't consider whether the pay is lower than your previous job if the offered wage is standard for that position in your area. So while this job pays less than your previous position, refusing it could potentially disqualify you from receiving any benefits at all. This makes the partial benefits route potentially more attractive than turning down the position.

Did you check your eServices message center? Sometimes they send instructions there about what you need to do for the old claim. Might save you a phone call.

Just to give you some hope - I finally got my claim processed after dealing with a similar issue. From disqualification letter to benefits being paid took about 10 days once I was able to speak with someone. Hang in there!

Did you get the determination letter explaining why they denied your claim initially? It should cite specific reasons and regulations. Understanding exactly why they denied you can help you prepare targeted counterarguments. Also, make sure you have a copy of your employer's response to your claim - you can request this from ESD if you don't already have it.

Update us after your hearing! Based on what you've shared, I think you have a good chance of winning. One write-up from 3 months prior about an issue that was arguably not even your fault doesn't meet the standard for misconduct under Washington unemployment law. Just make sure you're well-prepared and stay calm during questioning.