Just went through this whole UI to PFML and back to UI nightmare and let me tell you the system is NOT set up for our situations AT ALL. My biggest advice is document EVERYTHING. Every call, every letter, every payment. My cousin's wife had her benefits completely messed up and they tried to say she got overpaid by $6,200 because their systems didn't talk to each other properly! She had to appeal and it took months to sort out. So keep good records!!!

One final tip: When you restart your UI claim, in the "reason for separation" section, select "Not working - still attached to employer" and then in the details mention you were on PFML and are now able to work again. This helps prevent the system from thinking you have a new job separation issue that needs adjudication. You've already been approved based on your original job separation (the potentially illegal termination due to pregnancy), so you want to make it clear you're just continuing that same claim.

Also, in case it helps ease your stress a little - if you win your appeal, you will receive all back payments for the weeks you've been claiming. While it doesn't help with immediate bills, you will eventually get the full amount you're entitled to if the judge rules in your favor. I'd recommend checking your appeal status on the OAH portal as well: https://www.oah.wa.gov/ They have a separate system from ESD where you can sometimes see updates on your case status.

One important thing to remember is that if your employer doesn't show up for the hearing (which happens fairly often), that significantly increases your chances of winning. But don't count on that - still be fully prepared. Also, make sure you understand exactly why ESD denied your claim. In your case, it sounds like they believe you voluntarily quit rather than being laid off. You'll need to focus specifically on proving that aspect of your case with documentation or witness statements if possible.

Based on your additional information about receiving benefits in 2023, it's very likely this is a new overpayment related to that claim period. This is important because: 1. You'll need to address both overpayments separately 2. The waiver criteria may be different for the 2023 claim vs. your 2021 claim 3. If approved for a waiver on one, it doesn't automatically apply to the other When you call ESD, make sure you get complete information about: - The exact weeks this new overpayment covers - The specific reason for the determination (failure to report earnings, job search requirements, etc.) - How this impacts your current repayment plan for the 2021 overpayment - Whether you can set up a consolidated repayment plan if both overpayments are valid Documentation is crucial here - write down the name of the agent you speak with and request that detailed notes be added to your file about your call.

One more thing to check - look at any messages in your eServices account. Sometimes ESD sends important notices there but doesn't email you about them. There might be more details about this new overpayment that could help you understand what's happening before you call. Also, when you do call, ask specifically if you qualify for an overpayment waiver based on financial hardship. Since 2023, ESD has expanded their criteria for waivers, especially for people already dealing with financial difficulties. If your income is below a certain threshold compared to your expenses, you might qualify to have some or all of the overpayment waived. Good luck and let us know how it goes!

Great point about the contact info. I still have mail forwarding set up from my WA address, but I should make sure they have my current direct address and phone number from the start.

Thanks everyone for the advice! Sounds like I should just file online and be prepared for the wait. I'll make sure I have all my documentation ready, explain my out-of-state situation clearly, and maybe try that Claimyr service if I get stuck in adjudication. Definitely saved me from wasting money on a flight!

my cousin works at worksorce and she said they had a big system crash on sunday night. something about a database update gone wrong. shes not in IT but thats what shes hearing from her manager

UPDATE: Website is working again! Just successfully submitted my claim this morning. Looks like they fixed whatever the issue was. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!