Good luck OP! I hope you get through soon. This thread has some good advice - try the early morning calls, different numbers, and maybe that callback service people mentioned. Don't give up!

I've been dealing with a similar situation with my unemployment claim being stuck in adjudication for months. One thing that helped me was calling the Spanish language line (even if you don't speak Spanish) and asking to be transferred to an English-speaking agent - sometimes those lines have shorter wait times. Also, I found that calling right before they close at 4pm on Wednesdays sometimes works because people give up calling by then. The system is definitely broken but persistence is key. Have you tried submitting any additional documentation through the online portal while you wait? Sometimes that can help move things along even if you can't reach anyone by phone.

Update: Finally got through to an ESD agent this morning. The 'reversed' decision means the judge overturned ESD's original approval of my benefits. The agent confirmed I'll be receiving an overpayment notice for about $5,800 in benefits I've already received. I can either pay it back in full, request a payment plan, or file for a waiver if I can prove financial hardship. I'm also going to appeal to the Commissioner's Review Office within the 30-day window. The agent said I should focus on showing why the judge didn't correctly apply the law to my situation rather than just restating my original arguments. Thanks everyone for your help with understanding this!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress! I went through something similar last year and the uncertainty is awful. One thing that helped me was getting a copy of the judge's written decision as soon as possible - it should spell out exactly why they reversed ESD's original decision and what specific law or regulation they based it on. This information will be crucial if you decide to appeal to the Commissioner's Review Office. Also, when you apply for that payment plan, ask if they can put a hold on collection activities while your Commissioner appeal is pending. Some people have success with this, though it's not guaranteed. Document everything and keep copies of all correspondence. Hang in there!

I've been dealing with ESD for over a year now and want to share something important that hasn't been mentioned yet - if you're caring for an elderly parent or family member, there are actually specific provisions in unemployment law that protect you. Washington State recognizes "compelling family circumstances" as valid reasons for temporary unavailability. When you fill out your questionnaire, definitely frame it as providing necessary care for a family member who depends on you, not just "I had to take my dad somewhere." ESD has guidance that caring for immediate family members during medical situations is considered reasonable cause. You might even want to mention if this is an ongoing need (like regular appointments) so they understand it's not just random unavailability. Also, absolutely include your job search activities! It shows you're balancing family responsibilities with serious employment seeking. That's exactly the kind of responsible behavior ESD wants to see from claimants. You've got this!

Just wanted to add my experience since I see a lot of people stressing about these questionnaires! I got one last year after reporting that I had jury duty for 3 days. I was absolutely terrified they'd disqualify me, but it turned out jury duty is actually one of the most clear-cut "excused" absences since it's a legal obligation. The key thing I learned is that ESD distinguishes between "voluntary" unavailability (like taking a vacation) and "involuntary" or "necessary" unavailability (medical appointments, family emergencies, civic duties, etc.). Medical appointments, car repairs, and caring for family members all fall into that second category. When I filled out my questionnaire, I made sure to: 1) Explain exactly what happened and why it was necessary, 2) Emphasize that I was available all other days that week, 3) Include that I continued job searching during that period. My payments were only delayed about 4 days while they reviewed it. The biggest mistake people make is not responding at all because they're scared - that WILL get your benefits suspended. Always respond honestly and promptly, even if you're worried about the outcome!

I'm going through something similar right now - exhausted my benefits 3 weeks ago but kept getting those reminder texts. Reading through all these responses has been super enlightening! I had no idea about the extension programs or how important it is to maintain continuous filing. I actually called ESD last week to ask about stopping the reminders and the agent told me the same thing everyone here is saying - keep filing even with $0 benefits. She mentioned that gaps in claims can be really problematic if any additional programs become available. It's honestly ridiculous that this isn't explained clearly when your benefits first exhaust. The system just says "final payment" and leaves you guessing about next steps. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this thread is way more helpful than anything on the official ESD website!

This thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm in a very similar situation - just hit my 26-week mark and saw that dreaded "final payment" message, but those weekly reminders keep coming. I was honestly about to just ignore them, but after reading everyone's experiences here, I'm definitely going to keep filing. The story about the February extension program really caught my attention - I had no idea those kinds of opportunities could pop up unexpectedly. It's also good to know about maintaining the job search requirements even during the $0 benefit period. Question for those who've been through this: do you know if there's any limit to how long you should keep filing after exhaustion, or is it just "until you find work"? The advice about filing for at least a month was helpful, but wondering if there's any official guidance beyond that. Thanks everyone for sharing your real-world experiences - this is exactly the kind of practical info that's impossible to find anywhere else!

Yeah there is a fee, but honestly it was worth it to finally get through and get accurate information instead of guessing or getting conflicting advice online.

I've been dealing with Washington ESD for a few months now and wanted to share what I learned about the weeks calculation. The maximum is indeed 26 weeks, but it's based on a formula that considers your earnings in your base year. What really helped me understand my situation was looking at my quarterly wage report on the ESD website - it breaks down exactly which quarters they used and how much I earned in each. If you're unsure about your qualification, I'd recommend checking that wage history first before trying to call them. It gives you a clearer picture of what to expect.