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Just a heads up - my appeal hearing got rescheduled TWICE with only 24 hours notice each time. Be prepared for that possibility and keep your schedule flexible around your hearing date if possible.
One more tip from my appeal experience: The judge will likely ask very specific questions about dates, times, and what exactly was said in conversations with your employer. Having a timeline document prepared with all these details organized chronologically made a huge difference in my hearing. I came across as credible because I could quickly reference exact dates and details without hesitation.
That's excellent advice! I'll start putting together a timeline document with all the key events - when my hours were first reduced, conversations with management, when I received the texts, etc. Better to be over-prepared than stumbling over details during the hearing.
Update: I was able to get through to ESD yesterday! The agent explained that this is a common system issue with gig work. They had to manually reclassify DoorDash as self-employment in their system rather than a regular employer. Once they did that, I was able to complete my weekly claim properly without the date error. She also said I should report any future gig work earnings under the self-employment section of the weekly claim, not as regular employer income. Thank you all for your help!
Yes, they did review my previous weeks! The agent said everything looked correct since I hadn't been reporting any DoorDash income during those weeks (since I hadn't worked for them). But she said it's good I got it fixed now before it caused problems down the road. For anyone else dealing with this same issue - definitely call ESD directly and have them fix how your gig work is classified in their system!
Quick question - are you also applying for disability benefits while seeking unemployment? That might be another complication since unemployment requires you to be able and available for full-time work, while disability is for those who cannot work. Just something to consider if you're pursuing both simultaneously.
Yes, I am pursuing both, which might seem contradictory. My condition is complex - I'm currently bedridden but can still work remotely at my profession (I'm in digital marketing). My doctor supports this - I can work from home but cannot physically commute or sit in an office environment. I've been clear with ESD that I'm seeking remote work only. I have a consultation with a disability attorney after the holidays to better understand my options. It's definitely a complicated situation!
Based on your latest comment, I want to add something important: Make sure ESD understands your work limitations clearly. Being on standby for your previous employer might have been an option, but since your position was eliminated, you need to be specific about being able and available for suitable work that accommodates your medical condition. For your appeal, include a doctor's note that specifically states you can perform remote work in your field despite your medical condition. This helps address the "able and available" requirement while supporting your job search for remote-only positions. Regarding pursuing both unemployment and disability simultaneously - be very careful with this. If approved for SSDI, it could potentially create an overpayment situation with unemployment since the programs have conflicting requirements. Your disability attorney will help navigate this, but it's something to be aware of.
This is excellent advice. I'll get an updated note from my doctor specifically stating I can perform remote work despite my current limitations. I had no idea about the potential overpayment issue between SSDI and unemployment - I'll definitely discuss this with my disability attorney. I just want to make sure I have some income while I search for appropriate remote work. Thank you for the warning!
EVERYONE LISTEN UP!!! The real problem is ESD is deliberatly delaying claims to save money!!! My adjudicator ADMITTED this to me when they finally called!!! They make the system complicated on purpose so people give up!!!!
I understand your frustration, but as someone who works in the employment field, I can assure you this isn't accurate. ESD doesn't save money by delaying claims - the funding for benefits comes from employer-paid insurance, not from ESD's operational budget. The delays are typically caused by staffing shortages, complex eligibility rules that require manual review, and the high volume of claims. The system definitely needs improvement, but there's no conspiracy to deny valid claims.
Update us when you get approved! I'm curious how long it takes now in 2025 vs when I did it last year
Will do! I'll post an update as soon as anything changes with my claim status.
Sasha Reese
Just wanted to follow up - definitely contact the employer and explain your transportation situation. Many companies understand financial challenges during unemployment and might offer options like: 1. Virtual first interview 2. Interview location closer to public transportation 3. Some larger employers even have programs to help candidates with transportation costs It shows initiative on your part to problem-solve, which can actually make a positive impression. Don't let this opportunity slip away!
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Jenna Sloan
•This is really smart advice, thank you! I hadn't even considered asking about a virtual interview. I'm going to email the hiring manager today and see if that's an option. Maybe they'd be open to a Zoom call for the first round at least. Thank you!
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Muhammad Hobbs
Just checking in - did u end up getting ur claim processed or finding a way to the interview? Hope things worked out ok
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Jenna Sloan
•Small update: The company agreed to do a virtual first interview tomorrow! Still no movement on my claim but at least I won't miss this opportunity. If I get to the second round, I'll have to figure out transportation then, but this buys me some time. Thanks everyone for the advice and support!
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