Just another thought - check if ur employer contested ur claim. Log into ur ESD account and look for any employer protests or responses. Sometimes they'll show what the employer said. That might tell u why u were denied without having to call.

Based on everything in this thread, you're dealing with a common issue where "voluntary separation packages" during downsizing get misclassified as voluntary quits. You have two parallel paths to pursue: 1. Continue with your appeal/hearing process. Start gathering ALL documentation: - The voluntary separation offer - Any communications indicating the alternative was potential layoff - Those text messages from your manager (crucial evidence) - Timeline of events leading to your separation - Witness contacts who can verify the nature of the downsizing 2. Simultaneously try reaching ESD for a redetermination: - Try the early morning calls - Consider the Claimyr service others mentioned if necessary - Specifically request a "redetermination based on new information" - Explain that this was effectively a layoff despite the terminology Don't give up on either path until one succeeds. Many people successfully overturn these denials when they can prove the voluntary separation was effectively a layoff in disguise.

My sister worked for ESD and told me a bunch of these claims are getting stuck because of the new ID verification system they put in place after all the fraud during COVID. Do you know if they asked you to verify your identity? Sometimes people miss those notices because they go to spam or get lost among other ESD messages.

I waited 9 weeks last year and then suddenly got a big deposit in my checking account with zero notification. The whole system is a mess. I'd recommend calling your local WorkSource office too - sometimes they can see notes on your account that aren't visible to you.

After you report the fraud, you'll want to get a copy of your full ESD account record. You can request this through a public records request on their website. This will show all claim activity under your SSN, including what address and bank account information was used for the fraudulent claim. This evidence is super helpful for clearing things up with the IRS too.

maybe the $430 is some kind of adjustment from your old claim? like did you ever appeal anything from back then?

has anyone gotten backpay for all the weeks they waiting? im on week 5 of waiting

UPDATE: Finally got through to ESD this morning using Claimyr! The agent found that my claim was flagged for manual review because my employer reported a slightly different last day of work than what I entered (I put my last day in the office, they put the official termination date which was 2 days later). The agent updated it and said my payments should process within 48-72 hours. Such a relief to finally know what was happening! Will update when money arrives.

how did u even get approved in the first place if ur employer was going to fight it? did they just not respond at first?

One more important thing: while your appeal is in process, you should continue looking for work and documenting your job search activities. The appeal process doesn't pause your job search requirements if you're still claiming benefits on weeks you're eligible for. Also, make sure to request a payment plan application right away, even before your appeal. This shows good faith on your part and starts the process in case your appeal is unsuccessful. ESD has reasonable payment plans that can be as low as $25-50 per month depending on your financial situation. Having your employer not contest the appeal is a huge advantage, but remember the burden of proof is still on you to show you met all eligibility requirements. Be prepared to explain why you qualified for benefits initially.