THE ESD SYSTEM IS RIDICULOUS!!! i had something similar happen and even though i notified them IMMEDIATELY about starting a new job, they still paid me unemployment for 2 weeks and then sent me a overpayment notice 3 MONTHS LATER claiming i committed fraud!!! i've been fighting it for 4 months now. document EVERYTHING and send it through multiple channels - secure message, regular mail, AND try to call. don't trust their system to work correctly!!!

I see a lot of panic in this thread, but I want to reassure you that your situation is actually pretty straightforward. Since you haven't been paid any UI benefits yet (they're still in adjudication), you're in a good position. The main risk comes when you've actually received payments from both programs. To summarize what you should do: 1. Stop filing weekly UI claims immediately 2. Send a secure message requesting withdrawal (use exact language: "I request to withdraw my unemployment claim effective [date] due to approval of my PFMLA claim") 3. Print or screenshot the message for your records 4. Try calling, but don't stress if you can't get through 5. Proceed with your PFMLA claim as directed Keep in mind that PFMLA has different weekly certification requirements than UI, so be sure to follow those carefully.

In-person is definitely best for WorkSource advocacy help! Bring ALL documentation - job search logs, denial letters, appeal decisions, etc. Ask specifically for an Unemployment Insurance Liaison or someone who specializes in UI issues. Each office has at least one person who works closely with ESD regularly. They can often see notes in your file that you can't access and may be able to contact ESD managers directly.

Regarding your question about consolidation timing - you don't need to wait for all denials. File the consolidation request for the appeals you've already submitted, and then file additional requests as new denials come in. Make sure to reference the previous consolidation request in each new one. For the misconduct issue, this is a separate matter that likely won't be consolidated with the job search denials since it's a different legal issue. Be prepared to address this separately. Request a copy of your entire claim file through a formal public records request - don't rely on just what shows up in eServices.

Im in the exact same boat but 8 weeks now... this is my first time on unemployment and im so confused. did you figure out why yours is stuck?

Just to add one more important point: make absolutely sure you're meeting the job search requirements while waiting. With the 2025 requirements, you need to complete and document 3 job search activities each week. If you miss documenting these properly, it can add another layer of issues to your claim. The Work Source workshops count as activities too, and they're easy to document.

One more important thing: if your final paycheck includes any vacation payout, severance, or other separation pay, make sure you understand how to report that correctly. Those types of payments can affect your benefits differently than regular wages. If you're unsure, it's always better to contact ESD directly to get clarification for your specific situation.

I waited to file my first claim and it was a HUGE mistake! ESD questioned why there was a gap between when I was approved and when I started filing. Had to go through adjudication for 5 weeks before I got a single payment! Don't make my mistake!

Just to add some clarity about students and unemployment requirements: 1. Being a full-time student doesn't automatically exempt you from job search requirements 2. However, your student schedule can affect your "available for work" status 3. Make sure you've accurately reported your school schedule when filing your claim 4. ESD might conduct a special review for students to determine if your studies restrict your availability If ESD determines your school schedule significantly limits when you can work, they might adjust your job search requirements or determine you're not eligible. This review process could be why your job search reporting section disappeared temporarily.

Update: I finally got through to ESD! It turns out there was a flag on my account for a student review, which temporarily removed the job search reporting option. The agent confirmed I still need to do my 3 job searches weekly and reactivated the reporting section. She also added a note to my account showing I've been compliant. For anyone else having this issue: keep detailed records of ALL your job searches even if you can't report them online. I've been taking screenshots of all my applications and saving them with dates. The agent said this was smart and would protect me in case of an audit. Thanks everyone for your help! What a stressful experience.