The entire ESD system is DELIBERATELY DESIGNED to be confusing and trip people up so they can deny benefits!!! I went through this exact situation last year and ended up getting disqualified because I didn't know I still needed to do job searches when filing by phone. No one told me! The automated system doesn't tell you! They sent me a letter MONTHS later saying I owed $4,800 in overpayments because I failed a job search review. The system is RIGGED against claimants. They don't want to pay benefits so they make the process as complicated as possible hoping people will make mistakes.

When I had to file by phone once during a power outage, I actually used my neighbor's internet the next day to log into my eServices account and add my job search activities after I'd already filed by phone. There's a section where you can view and edit your job search activities separate from filing your weekly claim. Not sure if that's still possible in 2025, but might be worth checking once your internet is back!

To clarify for everyone: These refunds are part of ESD's implementation of the blanket waiver program that was authorized during COVID. ESD is still processing these even in 2025 due to the massive backlog. Regarding taxes: 1. If you deducted the original repayment on your taxes as an itemized deduction → You likely need to report the refund as income (tax benefit rule) 2. If you used the standard deduction → You generally DON'T need to report the refund as income 3. If your itemized deductions that year didn't actually reduce your tax liability → You might not need to report it as income ESD should have included Publication 525 information with your refund check. It specifically addresses the tax implications of benefit repayments and subsequent refunds. If you're unsure, consult a tax professional with your specific situation.

wait so are they doing this automatically for everyone or do we need to apply somewhere? i paid back like $5k in 2021 and nobody told me anything about waivers

my neighbors cousins was in adjudiction for 3 months!!! but that was back in 2023 so maybe its faster now. but yeah the systems still a mess from what i can tell

Quick update on timeframes based on recent cases I've seen: Current ESD adjudication is averaging 5-7 weeks for standard issues. Senator intervention is helping, but their offices are getting flooded with requests which is diluting the effectiveness somewhat. One thing to verify: check that your identification verification is complete and shows "verified" in your account. That's often an invisible blocker that keeps claims stuck.

To answer your follow-up question - yes, the monetary determination letter means you're eligible based on your past earnings. You should definitely start filing weekly claims right away. Just because your status can change later (as others have mentioned) doesn't mean you should delay filing. Each week you don't file is potentially lost benefits that can't be recovered later. Regarding your employer - there's no direct way to see if they've contested anything, but if they had immediately disputed your claim, you likely wouldn't have seen the status change to active so quickly. Most employer disputes show up within the first 10 days, though they technically have more time than that. If your separation was a departmental layoff as you mentioned, it's very likely your claim will remain approved. Just make sure you're doing your 3 job search activities every week and documenting them properly.

anyone else notice how ESD seems to be speeding up for some people but still keeping others waiting FOREVER??? seems totally UNFAIR how they pick and choose who to process quickly!

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.

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.