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To answer your notification question from earlier - ESD doesn't send payment notifications. You'll need to check your bank account or eServices portal to see when payments arrive. I recommend setting up text alerts with your bank for deposits. Also, definitely file your weekly claims on Sunday or Monday. While the initial application timing doesn't matter much, weekly claims are processed in batches, and earlier submissions tend to be in earlier payment batches. I've been tracking mine for months, and Sunday submissions always pay out faster than when I've waited until Tuesday or Wednesday.
One important thing nobody mentioned - if you're applying now in 2025, know that the job search requirements are stricter than they used to be. You'll need to document at least 3 job search activities EVERY week once approved. Missing these or not properly documenting them can delay or stop your payments regardless of what day you filed initially.
Excellent point. The job search requirements are absolutely critical. Each week, you must complete and document 3 qualifying job search activities. Keep detailed records of employer names, contact information, positions applied for, application methods, and follow-up actions. The ESD can audit these records at any time.
my hearing was a total disaster cuz i froze up when the judge started asking me questions!!! practice practice practice ur answers!!!
One more important tip - during your OAH hearing, the judge will ask if you've reviewed the ESD file/evidence. Make sure you and your lawyer request and review the complete ESD file before your hearing! This contains all the evidence ESD used to deny your claim, including any statements from your employer. You have a legal right to see this file before your hearing. If you haven't received it yet, your lawyer should request it immediately. Reviewing it prevents any surprises during the hearing and allows you to prepare responses to any misleading information. If you win your appeal, you'll likely receive all back benefits in one lump sum, so hang in there!
One more thing to consider: Even if you win your appeal (which seems likely), there might be a delay before payments start. The employer has the right to petition for review of the ALJ's decision within 30 days. Some employers automatically file these petitions even when they didn't show up for the hearing. If they do file, it could add another 2-3 months before you receive benefits. However, if your financial situation is critical, once you receive a favorable decision, you can call ESD and request a hardship payment while waiting for the petition period to expire.
I didn't even think about that possibility! This whole process is already taking so long. I was laid off back in January, then found this job in February, and was terminated in March after only 3 weeks. It's now May and I'm still fighting for benefits. I'll definitely ask about the hardship payment if I get a favorable decision.
does anybody know how long it takes to get the decision after the hearing? mine took 4 weeks and i was going crazy checking the mail everyday!!
Michael Adams
wait did u answer all the questions right on the phone? sometimes i accidentally press the wrong button and it seems like it went thru but it didnt actually file. make sure when u call that u stay on until it says "thank you your claim has been filed" or someting like that at the very end
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Alexis Robinson
•Yeah, I definitely got to the end where it said my claim was successfully submitted. I answered all the questions about job search activities and being able/available to work. That's why I'm confused about why it's not showing up online yet.
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Aaron Lee
Just checking back - did your claim update in the system yet? It should show as filed by now if you did it yesterday morning.
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Alexis Robinson
•Yes! It finally updated this morning. Took about 30 hours to show up in the system. Thanks everyone for the help and reassurance! Next time I'll file online to avoid the stress.
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