wait r u getting the paper mail from ESD too? sometimes they send important stuff that's not on the website and if u miss responding to one of those letters the whole claim gets messed up. happened to my roommate

One more thing that might help - if you're able to get through to ESD (either directly or through a service), ask them specifically if there are any "fact-finding questionnaires" that need to be completed. Sometimes these aren't obvious in your online account but can be holding up your claim. Also, make sure you're continuing to file your weekly claims even while in adjudication. If you miss filing for any week, it creates even more complications. Lastly, document EVERYTHING - dates/times you called, names of people you spoke with, letters you sent, etc. This documentation can be helpful if you need to appeal or escalate your case.

Generally there's minimal downside to having a professional conversation. Frame it as "this role isn't the right fit for either of us" rather than "I want to quit but need unemployment." Many employers understand it's better for everyone if an employee who isn't a good fit moves on, and coding it as a layoff can be a win-win. If they seem receptive, you could even offer a transition period where you help train your replacement.

UPDATE: I called ESD this morning to ask about a similar situation and the agent confirmed that job elimination followed by unsuitable work CAN qualify for benefits. She said they look at these on a case-by-case basis and that documenting the differences between positions is critical. She also mentioned that if your pay was reduced by more than 25% OR your skills aren't transferable to the new role, those are strong factors in your favor. Hope this helps someone!

After trying Claimyr that someone mentioned, I actually got through to ESD yesterday after weeks of trying. The agent said identity verification issues are prioritized differently based on your work history and when you last filed. If you've had multiple claims or gaps in employment, you get flagged for extra verification. The frustrating part is their notification system is completely separate from eServices, and many notices are still being sent through regular mail that people aren't receiving.

That's so helpful to know! I definitely have gaps in my work history which probably explains why I got flagged. Did the ESD agent tell you any tricks for speeding up the process once documents are submitted?

7 WEEKS is ridiculous!!! the system is BROKEN!!! glad you finally got approved but why should anyone have to call the literal governors office just to get their legitimate benefits?? we need to completely overhaul ESD

After you called the governor's office, did they tell you approximately how long it would take for someone to contact you? I'm planning to call them tomorrow but wondering what timeframe to expect.

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.