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Try calling exactly at 4:25pm. That worked for me twice because most people don't realize they're open until 5pm and stop calling after lunch. The queue usually clears out a bit by then.
Finally got through! Used the Claimyr service you recommended and got connected to an agent in about 20 minutes. They fixed the issue with my overlapping claims and released all my pending payments. Such a relief after weeks of frustration. Thank you SO much for the suggestion!
wait guys sorry to jump in but if the claim shows denied doesn't that mean the initial claim was denied? or can weekly claims get denied too? i'm getting so confused with this whole process...
Both can happen. Your initial claim can be denied (meaning you don't qualify for benefits at all), OR individual weekly claims can be denied even after your initial claim is approved. Since OP mentioned their first week claim had an error but they could still file for later weeks, it sounds like their initial claim was approved but specific weekly claims were denied.
UPDATE: Thank you everyone for the helpful advice! I checked my job search logs and realized I wasn't including the contact information or outcomes for each application. I also suspect I might not have been clicking the final submission button correctly. I'm going to call the Office of Administrative Hearings tomorrow about appealing the denied weeks. Will also try Claimyr if I can't get through on my own - at this point, I just need to speak to someone who can explain exactly what went wrong. Really appreciate all the guidance!
i had kinda the same thing happen but it was cuz i answered a question wrong on my weekly claim. took FOREVER to fix. have u been filing ur weekly claims still even tho ur not getting paid? u gotta keep doing that or they'll close ur whole claim and ull have to start over again. dont forget!!!!
Any update? Were you able to get through to ESD today? Did any of these suggestions help? Also, how did your job interview go?
Update! First, the interview went really well - they're checking my references, so fingers crossed! As for ESD, I called at 8:01 AM and actually got through after about 40 minutes. Used the "employer non-response adjudication review" phrase that was suggested here, and the agent immediately knew what I was talking about. They confirmed my employer never responded and have now expedited my claim for processing. They said I should see movement within 72 hours! Thank you all SO MUCH for the help and support. This forum has been a lifesaver.
Unfortunately, I think you've missed the window for unemployment benefits from that job. The deadline is usually within 6 months of separation, and it's been well over a year now. However, since you mentioned you got your cosmetology license, have you considered looking into any of the Work Source programs? They might be able to help you find flexible work options that could accommodate your needs while bringing in some income. Also, as others have mentioned, PFML is probably your best option right now. Washington has one of the better PFML programs in the country, and it specifically covers recovery from childbirth. The application process is completely separate from unemployment. Whatever you do, don't give up. The system is complicated, but there are resources available.
Thank you - I hadn't thought about Work Source. I will definitely look into that for the future. My cosmetology license is still good, and once I'm physically and mentally ready to work again, I'd love to find something part-time that works with my disability needs. Right now I'm focusing on the PFML option since that seems most relevant to my current situation with the recent C-section.
The ESD phone lines are IMPOSSIBLE!! I spent 3 weeks trying to get through about my claim last month. If u need to talk to someone try early morning like 7:59am right when they open. Or use that Claimyr thing someone mentioned, my friend said it actually works.
Drake
One more thing to be aware of - if your overpayment was due to an agency error (which many pandemic ones were), you might be eligible for an additional waiver of the interest and penalties. This isn't automatic - you need to specifically request a "waiver of fees and interest under RCW 50.20.190(4)" in writing. The standard waiver program doesn't always include this. Could explain some of the difference in your refund amount.
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Elijah O'Reilly
•ive been on UI for 20 years off and on and never heard of this! good to know
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Alicia Stern
Update: I finally got through to ESD after trying for two days straight. The agent explained that the $1,400 difference was broken down as: - $515 in administrative fees (which aren't waived) - $685 in federal tax withholding (10%) - $200 in interest that had accrued before I started repayment She said I'll receive a detailed breakdown in the mail within 2 weeks, and the actual refund should be deposited within 30 days. Thanks everyone for your helpful advice - it gave me the right questions to ask!
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