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Just to give you some peace of mind - I checked the ESD handbook and this type of adjudication is usually classified as a 'non-separation issue' which typically takes 7-10 days to resolve. Much faster than the initial claim adjudication which can take weeks. If you're able to get through to an agent using that service someone mentioned or just by persistent calling, ask them specifically to note that your move didn't affect your availability for work and that you've been continuing your job search activities without interruption.
I'm an employment counselor, and I see this situation frequently. Here's what's happening: When you change addresses across different geographical areas, ESD's system automatically flags your claim for a quick review to ensure you're still meeting the "able and available" requirements in your new location. This doesn't mean your benefits will be stopped permanently. What to do: 1. Continue filing weekly claims without interruption 2. Document your job search activities thoroughly (all 3 per week) 3. If possible, upload proof of your new address to your eServices account 4. Contact ESD to explain that your move hasn't affected your ability to search for work Most of these reviews resolve within 7-10 business days without requiring additional information from you. However, contacting them to explain the situation can sometimes expedite the process.
One more important suggestion: After you call and (hopefully) get your claim moved forward, make sure to log into your account daily to check for any new action items. Sometimes fixing the pending status triggers other verification requirements that need prompt response. Also, document everything - write down the date and time you call, the name of any agent you speak with, and notes about what they tell you. If you have to call back, having this information can help tremendously.
Update: I FINALLY got through to ESD this morning! Called right at 8am and used the "pending claim over three weeks" phrase when the automated system asked why I was calling. Still waited about 45 minutes, but I actually got a human! Turns out there was indeed a "clear-pending" flag on my account that needed manual override. The agent said my claim had passed all verification steps but was sitting in a review queue that wouldn't have been processed for ANOTHER 2-3 weeks without my call. She pushed it through while I was on the phone and said I should see payment within 48 hours for all my back weeks. Thank you all for pushing me to call instead of waiting longer. Will update when the money actually hits my account!
This is excellent news! A perfect example of why being proactive with ESD is so important. Thanks for coming back to update us. Fingers crossed your payment arrives promptly!
im so happy for you!!! this gives me hope. trying the claimyr thing tomorrow since i still cant get thru on my own!
Does anyone know if you can still file weekly claims while waiting for the appeal to be resolved? I'm in a similar situation and confused about whether I should keep claiming each week.
Yes, absolutely continue filing your weekly claims while your appeal is pending! This is extremely important. If you win your appeal, ESD can only pay you for weeks you properly claimed, even if you were eligible otherwise. If you don't file weekly claims during the appeal process, you could lose benefits even if you win the appeal.
Update: I was able to get through to ESD using Claimyr and they fixed the technical issue on my account. Just submitted my appeal online and got a confirmation number! The agent said this happens sometimes when there are multiple issues being processed on one claim. Thank you everyone for your help and suggestions! Now I just need to prepare for the hearing...
That's great news! Make sure you check your mail and email frequently over the next few weeks. The OAH will send instructions about your hearing date and how to submit evidence. Don't miss those deadlines! Also, when the hearing happens, be super organized and stick to the facts - the judges appreciate concise, clear explanations.
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.
Zara Shah
I had a somewhat similar situation last year. What fixed it for me was going to my state representative's office. They have constituent services staff who can cut through ESD bureaucracy FAST. I was stuck for 2 months trying on my own, representative's office fixed it in 4 days. Google your district and state rep and send them an email explaining the situation.
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Ravi Malhotra
•I hadn't even thought of contacting my state rep! That's brilliant and I'll definitely try it if I can't get through with the other suggestions. Thank you!
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Zara Shah
•No problem! Just be super clear in your email about the timeline of events and what you've already tried. They usually have forms on their websites specifically for constituent services requests.
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Chloe Davis
Update us on what ends up working! These stories help others who run into the same ridiculous issues with ESD's broken system.
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Ravi Malhotra
•I definitely will! I'm going to try the good cause exception approach first, then the redetermination request, and if those don't work, contacting my state rep. I'll post what eventually works.
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