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jst want to say sorry about ur job man. that sux when employers pull that kind of thing. happened to me 2yrs ago, boss had it out for me & waited til he had an excuse. hang in there
Quick update since there's some confusion in this thread: As of 2025, ESD has simplified their overpayment waiver process. Your pending waiver for the 2020 PUA/PEUC issue should be honored regardless of your new claim, but they are separate processes. Make sure you're answering the weekly job search questions correctly on your new claim - remember you need to document 3 job search activities each week now. This is often where people run into issues with their new claims. Also, when you describe your separation, stick to objective facts. Avoid terms like "bullying" and instead describe specific behaviors. For example, instead of "My manager was a bully," say "My manager raised his voice and criticized my work in front of colleagues on multiple occasions." This factual approach strengthens your case.
This is really helpful advice, thank you. I'll be careful about how I phrase things in my weekly certifications and make sure I'm documenting my job search activities properly. Is there a specific place in the ESD system where I should be keeping track of my job search efforts?
Yes - in your eServices account, there's a "Job search log" section where you should document all activities. Enter them as you complete them rather than waiting until the end of the week. Each entry should include the employer name, contact information, position, application method, and outcome. Even if your job search is waived initially (which sometimes happens in the first weeks), continue documenting everything as if it were required.
Quick update question - have you tried calling right when they open at 8:00 AM? That used to be the best time, but in 2025 I've heard from several people that calling between 3:30-4:00 PM has a better success rate because many agents have finished their scheduled callbacks by then and can take incoming calls. Might be worth trying that specific window if you haven't already.
One other thing to consider - check if you received any fact-finding questionnaires that you might have missed. Sometimes ESD sends these with tight deadlines (often just 5 business days), and if you don't respond, they automatically disqualify you. These can come by mail, email, or appear in your eServices account. If you find you missed one, mention this specifically when you get through to an agent. They can often reopen the fact-finding if you have a reasonable explanation for missing the deadline.
This is EXACTLY why the ESD system is so frustrating!! They make it impossible to get basic information that any normal payroll system would provide automatically. I spent THREE HOURS last year trying to reconcile my payment records because I needed the info for a mortgage application. The system is designed to be confusing on purpose I swear.
Just something to be aware of - make sure you're setting aside additional money for taxes if needed. The 10% withholding might not cover your full tax liability depending on your tax bracket and other income. I got caught by surprise last year when I still owed additional taxes even though I had withholding on all my UI payments.
Quick update suggestion - if you're not already, make sure you're answering "YES" to the question about being able and available for work on your weekly claims. Some people mistakenly say "no" thinking it means they don't have a job yet, but that actually flags your claim for adjudication since being available for work is a requirement for benefits.
I called my state rep's office this morning like you suggested! Their staff was super helpful and took all my info. They said they've been getting tons of similar calls and have a direct contact at ESD they'll reach out to. They said to expect a call or email within 3-5 business days. Fingers crossed this works! I'll update when I hear something.
Charlie Yang
After you try reaching ESD, if you still don't have an answer, you might want to contact your state representative's office. They often have liaisons who work directly with ESD and can sometimes get answers when individuals can't. Just search for "[your district] state representative" and call their office. I've seen this work for several people with stubborn claims.
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Emma Bianchi
•This is excellent advice. Legislative offices often have dedicated ESD contacts who can get information about claims when regular channels fail. I've seen claims that were stuck for months suddenly process within days after legislative intervention.
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Sophia Rodriguez
Just following up - did you get any resolution to your claim? I was thinking about your situation and remembered that sometimes the first payment can be delayed if your former employer contests your unemployment claim. Did you leave your job under any questionable circumstances? If your employer disputed your eligibility, that would definitely cause delays while ESD investigates.
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James Johnson
•I used that Claimyr service someone suggested and FINALLY got through to ESD yesterday! Turns out my former employer did contest my claim (even though I was laid off due to budget cuts). The agent said my claim is in adjudication and could take another 3-4 weeks to resolve. She added a note about my financial hardship, but couldn't promise it would speed things up. I'm going to try contacting my state rep too. Thanks for checking back!
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