Update: I went ahead and submitted the change to direct deposit yesterday. The system accepted my bank info without any errors, so that's a good sign. I'll report back next week to let everyone know if my payment arrives on time and which method it used. Thanks for all the advice!

Final update: My payment this week still went to my debit card as many of you predicted. I checked my ESD account and it shows the direct deposit is now active, so next week's payment should go to my bank account. No delays at all with the payment, which was a relief!

One thing I recommend for your appeal: request all records ESD used to make their determination about your ability to repay. You have a right to see exactly what financial information they're basing this on. Sometimes they're working with outdated or incorrect information about your current financial situation. At your hearing, be sure to highlight any changes in your financial circumstances since the overpayment occurred - especially if your situation has worsened. Also, don't be afraid to get emotional (but still respectful) about the impact this repayment would have on your life. The judges are human and respond to genuine hardship stories.

For my appeal hearing, I created a monthly budget spreadsheet that was really detailed - I listed every single expense down to Netflix and pet food. The judge actually complimented me on how thorough it was. I also brought screenshots of my bank account showing I had less than $500 in savings. Don't forget to include any medical expenses or debt payments! Another thing that helped was bringing documentation of any unusual expenses that might be coming up - in my case, my car needed major repairs, so I brought the estimate from the mechanic. The more specific you can be about your financial situation, the better your chances.

btw if u need to talk to esd before ur hearing theres this service called claimyr that can help u get thru. my friend used it when she couldnt get anyone on the phone for 2 weeks. it costs money but she said it was worth it cuz they got her connected in like an hour. their website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3

Just a heads up - since your hearing is the day after Christmas, there might be some delays with the decision and payment processing due to the holiday season. Many ESD staff take vacation time around the holidays, which can slow things down. I'd mentally prepare for an extra week beyond the normal timeframes just to be safe.

btw did u try the online message center thing? sometimes they actually respond to those

UPDATE: I just learned that ESD recently changed their phone system. Try option 2, then 1, then 3 in the menu to bypass some of the general queues. Also, if you're willing to drive to a WorkSource center in person, they sometimes have direct lines to ESD representatives that can help with payment issues. Bring ID and your claim information if you go that route.

have u checked if its a bank holiday?? sometimes those mess everything up

UPDATE: My payment just hit my account at 2:47 PM! Thanks everyone for the reassurance. Guess it was just processing slower than usual this week. I'll remember not to panic next time there's a slight delay!