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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!
I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned above when I was in appeal limbo. Got through to ESD in about 1.5 hours instead of days of redialing. The agent I spoke with actually helped me understand exactly what documentation I needed for my appeal. Totally worth it.
UPDATE: I finally got through to ESD this morning! The agent explained that I was disqualified because they needed verification of my work separation. Since I didn't respond to the February letter (which I never saw), they automatically disqualified me. She said I can either appeal OR submit the separation verification now through my eServices account. I'm going to try uploading my documentation today and see if that resolves it without needing a formal appeal. Will update again when I know more. Thanks everyone for your help and 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.
One more thing - if your appeal deadline has already passed, you can request a "good cause" exception for filing a late appeal. The same situation with your wife's hospitalization that prevented you from responding to their documentation request could potentially qualify as good cause for filing a late appeal. Make sure to submit medical documentation and be very specific about how it prevented you from meeting the deadlines.
This is correct. ESD does allow for late appeals in some circumstances. Be aware that the standard is fairly strict - they'll want to see that you were effectively unable to file on time, not just that it was difficult. Hospital documentation showing your wife was in critical condition and you were her primary caretaker would be ideal evidence. The fact that you were dealing with multiple family deaths plus a hospitalization creates a compelling case for extending deadlines.
my cousin works at a call center and says most ppl get denied at first just to see if theyll give up!! its like a test!! dont give up man
This isn't accurate. ESD doesn't deny claims as a "test" - they follow specific legal guidelines. Claims are denied when they don't meet the eligibility requirements based on the information provided. That said, many initial denials are overturned on appeal when additional information is presented or when the claimant clarifies misunderstandings about their situation.
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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