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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.
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.
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!
Quick update: My payment just switched from 'processing' to 'paid' about an hour ago. Hopefully everyone else's will update soon too. Looks like they're working through the backlog as promised.
Skylar Neal
For her unemployment application, make sure she uses these exact terms when explaining the situation: 1. "Administrative furlough due to background check processing" 2. "Temporary work stoppage not due to misconduct" 3. "Unable to perform work duties solely due to required administrative processing" These specific phrases will help trigger the right classification in the ESD system. Also, when she applies, she should select "laid off" rather than "quit" or "fired" when asked about her separation reason. Background check processing delays are considered administrative furloughs in most cases, which fall under the laid off category. If she gets denied (which happens to many first-time applications), definitely appeal right away. The appeal form will give her more space to fully explain the situation.
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Brady Clean
•This is extremely helpful! I've written down these exact phrases for her to use on the application. She's going to try filing online tonight. Will update how it goes!
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Angelina Farar
sorta off topic but this happened to my neighbor who is also a caregiver and she ended up applying for emergency assistance through DSHS for that month instead of dealing with unemployment. might be another option if the ESD route doesn't work out.
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