Getting through to ESD to ask this kind of question is practically impossible these days. I spent THREE DAYS trying to reach someone about a similar issue last month. Their phone lines are constantly busy, and when I finally got through, I was on hold for over 2 hours before being disconnected! I finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an ESD representative. They have this service that basically waits on hold for you and calls you back when an agent is available. Saved me so much frustration! They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 This is definitely a question where you want an official answer from ESD rather than risking your appeal over advice from the internet (no offense to anyone here).

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! I'm going to keep my claim open and continue filing weekly claims until the appeal process is complete. I'll make sure to accurately report my new employment and income. I appreciate all the insights - this has been stressing me out for weeks!

My nephew went through something sort of similar last year but it was for a different reason than medical, his car broke down and he couldn't get to work for a few days and they fired him. But anyway his OAH hearing was scheduled after about 5 weeks and then it was another 3 weeks until the actual hearing happened. He ended up losing his case though because they said transportation issues aren't a qualifying reason. But medical issues are totally different so you should be fine I would think especially if you have all the documentation like you said.

anybody else feel like the whole system is designed to frustrate us into giving up? like why should it take 2+ months to get a hearing for something this straightforward? not everyone can wait that long without income

does ne1 know if theres a seperate # for overpayment issues?? i got a letter saying i owe $4200 back and i NEED to talk to someone!!

Just wanted to update - I called 43 times this morning starting exactly at 8:00 am and FINALLY got through to someone at 8:37. The rep was actually super helpful and fixed my issue in 10 minutes. So keep trying!!!

dont 4get that u also gotta do the job search requirements, its like 3 activities a week in washington. dunno what arkansas requires but make sure u keep track of everything!

One more important thing to consider - once you determine which state to file in, you'll need to make sure you're following that state's weekly claim filing and job search requirements. Washington requires 3 job search activities per week that you must document and be ready to present if audited. They can deny benefits retroactively if you haven't been maintaining proper job search records. Also, when you apply with Washington ESD, be completely transparent about your Arkansas residency. Trying to hide that fact could lead to an overpayment determination later if they discover it.

my brother had this happen when he got a job at walmart after being laid off from boeing. he filed his final week and reported the hours and got like $75 instead of his full amount but at least it was something. def file your claim man

Just to clarify a few things that have been mentioned: 1. Yes, file your claim and report all hours/earnings 2. ESD deducts 75% of your earnings from your weekly benefit amount 3. You should answer the job search questions accurately - if you consider yourself still looking for work (which makes sense given the pay cut), then answer accordingly 4. Your claim remains active for your benefit year 5. If your hours increase to full-time at this job, you'd be considered fully employed even if the pay is low Hope this helps clear up any confusion!