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I was in virtually the same boat last year! The key for me was getting through to an actual ESD person. After I finally reached someone (took forever), they were able to see that my claim was just sitting there waiting for an adjudicator assignment. The agent escalated it and I got my determination within a week after that. Keep trying to reach a human!
UPDATE: I finally got through to ESD! Used that Claimyr service mentioned above and was connected to an agent within an hour. The agent confirmed my suspicion - they were waiting for a response from Job B about my separation. The agent noted that my uploaded emails showed good evidence of constructive discharge and flagged my case for expedited review. Should hear something within a week! Thank you all for the advice and support during this stressful time.
Did you try refreshing the page? Sometimes the ESD site glitches and doesn't show all the contact options. Also make sure your browser isn't blocking pop-ups because sometimes their contact form opens in a new window.
UPDATE: I finally got through! For anyone with the same problem, I tried calling at exactly 8:00 AM as someone suggested, and while I still had to wait about 25 minutes, I actually got to speak with a real person. They explained that my claim was delayed because of an employer response issue, but they've now moved it forward. Thanks everyone for the suggestions!
Wait so they made you pay back the money and then 3 years later decided you didn't need to pay it after all??? That's crazy! I'm dealing with an overpayment notice right now but haven't paid anything yet. Hope your refund comes through soon!
Yes, exactly. I was told I had to pay immediately or face collections, so I paid the full amount. Only now, 3 years later, they review my case and decide I shouldn't have had to pay. The system is completely backwards. If you're dealing with an overpayment now, definitely look into filing a waiver request BEFORE you pay anything!
I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Got my waiver approval last week after paying $2800 last year. Called this morning and was told I need to email overpayment@esd.wa.gov with my approval letter, claimant ID, and proof of payment. The rep said it would take "at least 8 weeks" for processing after they receive the email. This whole system is just designed to make it as difficult as possible to get your own money back!
Thanks for sharing your experience - at least now I know what email to use. Did they say what counts as valid "proof of payment"? I paid by check but I'm not sure if I still have the cancelled check images from 3 years ago.
Update: I had my hearing yesterday and my employer didn't show up! The judge was really thorough though and asked me a ton of questions about the circumstances of my termination. They had the written statement from my employer claiming I ignored safety protocols, but I was able to explain that I'd actually requested additional training on the new procedures multiple times (and had emails to prove it). The judge seemed pretty receptive, but said I'll get the decision in 7-10 days. Fingers crossed!
sounds like it went good!! the emails proving u asked for training is HUGE. that shows u were trying to follow the rules not break them. i bet u win!!
This sounds very promising. By providing documentation that contradicts their claim and showing you were proactive about following procedures, you've effectively countered their misconduct argument. The fact they didn't show up to defend their position or cross-examine you is definitely in your favor. Keep us posted on the outcome!
Final update: I WON MY APPEAL!!! The decision came in the mail today - the judge ruled that my employer failed to establish that my actions constituted misconduct as defined under Washington unemployment law. I'll be getting backpay for all 10 weeks I've been waiting (about $6,240). Thank you all so much for your advice and support. For anyone else going through this, definitely bring all documentation and be prepared to clearly explain your side even if the employer doesn't show up.
CONGRATS!!! Such a relief, right? Now you can breathe again. Did they say how long until you actually get the backpay? For me it took about 5 business days after the decision.
Eve Freeman
this is y our state sucks. esd is broken on purpose so they can steal money from workers. they create these "overpayments" out of nowhere then make it impossible to fight. my friend got hit with $16k overpayment after being told she qualified. its all a scam
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Lydia Santiago
•While the system certainly has problems, I wouldn't go so far as to say it's intentional. The collections department staff I spoke with was actually very helpful and reasonable. I think it's more about understaffing and poor communication between departments than malicious intent.
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Caden Turner
Has anyone here had their waiver actually approved? I've been waiting 5 months and I'm losing hope... I'm in a similar situation where ESD approved my benefits initially then suddenly decided I didn't qualify based on some technicality about my work history.
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McKenzie Shade
•my cousin got hers approved after like 9 months it just randomly showed up in her account one day saying approved. no letter or anything just suddenly the balance was gone
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