Quick update on timelines - I work with unemployment cases regularly, and the current adjudication wait for standard cases is running about 5-6 weeks. However, for cases involving veteran status and legitimate medical/physical limitations, it can sometimes be expedited if properly flagged. If you have medical documentation from the VA showing your service-connected condition and how it made the civilian job unsuitable, that's exactly what you need. This creates a very specific unemployment situation where the voluntary quit would likely be considered with good cause. Until adjudication is complete, just keep filing those weekly claims, and consider reaching out to WorkSource's veteran services specialists. They sometimes have direct channels to help veterans navigate ESD issues.

btw dont forget ur job search activities while waiting! 3 per week even when pending. i messed that up and had to start all over

When I started my new job last year, I just called and told them I was employed now and didn't need benefits anymore and they said ok and that was it. But reading these comments, sounds like I should have kept filing for a bit? No one came after me though so I guess either way works?

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! To summarize what I've learned: 1. Keep filing weekly claims and truthfully report my work and earnings 2. Report GROSS earnings for when I worked (not when paid) 3. Continue filing for 2-3 weeks after starting the job 4. After 4 weeks of $0 benefits, my claim becomes inactive automatically This is super helpful and much clearer than anything on the ESD website!

To answer your question about talking to your former employer during the hearing - yes, they'll be on the call too. The judge asks each party questions, and sometimes they'll let you and your employer ask each other questions through the judge. It's formal but not like a court trial. One important tip: have all your documentation organized and in front of you during the call. The judge will reference specific documents, and you'll want to be able to quickly find what they're talking about. Also, stick to factual statements rather than emotions or accusations. If your documentation about safety concerns is solid, especially that doctor's note, you have a good chance. The key is showing that you had no reasonable alternative but to quit. Judges tend to look favorably on cases where you can demonstrate you tried to resolve the issues before leaving.

To follow up on your question about submitting additional documentation: Yes, you absolutely can and should submit any additional relevant evidence you find. However, there are strict rules about timing: 1. Submit new evidence at least 7 days before your hearing 2. Make sure to send copies to all parties (ESD, your former employer, and OAH) 3. Keep proof that you submitted the documents (email confirmation, fax receipt, etc.) If you find crucial evidence after the deadline, you can still try to submit it, but the judge has discretion whether to accept it or not. The hearing notice you receive will contain specific instructions on how to submit evidence. Also, prepare a clear, chronological statement explaining why you had good cause to quit. Focus specifically on the safety issues, your attempts to resolve them, and why continuing to work there would have been unreasonable. This preparation will be valuable regardless of whether there's a hearing.

Not directly related but my neighbor had something similar happen with L&I records (not ESD) and even though they were technically public, she said nobody ever actually requested them. The system isn't designed for casual browsing - somebody would need to specifically request YOUR records by name/case number. Just something to consider.

To answer your question about timing - Commissioner reviews typically take 45-60 days from filing to decision. And yes, your benefits will remain on hold during this period unfortunately. Regarding your privacy concerns about future employers - they generally wouldn't know to look for these records unless you told them about your case. These aren't the kind of records that show up in standard background checks or Google searches. The biggest risk would be if your former employer is involved in the case and shares information. One other thing to consider: if your privacy concerns outweigh the potential benefits of winning your appeal, you might want to weigh whether pursuing the Commissioner review is worth it financially and emotionally.

Your problem reminds me of my nightmare situation! The ONLY WAY I got it resolved was by contacting my state representative's office. They have special liaisons with ESD who can actually get things done. Google your district and state rep and send them an email explaining your situation. My claim was stuck for 8 weeks until I did this, then magically resolved in 3 days!!

One important technical detail: if your claim is marked as "ineligible" but shows "adjudication in process," this actually means the system has flagged something that requires manual review. This is normal for interstate claims. The adjudicator will be looking at whether: 1. Your quarters of employment meet Washington's eligibility criteria 2. Your wages from Florida can be combined with Washington wages 3. You've properly withdrawn from Florida's system Adjudication for interstate claims typically takes 4-6 weeks, longer than standard claims. Keep filing weekly claims during this time. If it's been more than 3 weeks already, I would suggest calling ESD and asking specifically about the status of your "combined wage claim" and whether they've received the "interstate response" from Florida yet. Those are the specific terms they use internally.