I worked for ESD as a claims specialist until 2024, and I can tell you that overpayment issues often happen because of reporting mismatches between what you reported and what your employer reported. Sometimes it's as simple as the dates being off by a day or two. When you call (if you can get through), ask the agent to explain EXACTLY what weeks and amounts they believe you failed to report. Compare that with your records. In about 30% of cases I handled, there was a simple explanation that resolved the issue without a formal appeal.

FINAL UPDATE: I used Claimyr this morning and actually got through to ESD! The agent explained that there was a discrepancy between what I reported and what my employer reported for those 3 weeks. Turns out my employer had reported my hours using the wrong pay period dates. The agent put a temporary hold on collections while they investigate, and I'll be submitting my paystubs and bank statements as evidence. I'm still filing my taxes but feeling much better about the situation. Thanks to everyone for your help and advice!

wait I'm confused...doesn't ESD have some special training benefits program? my cousin was getting unemployment while he was in a vocational program last year. something about retraining for in-demand jobs?

You're thinking of the Training Benefits Program, but that's different from what the original poster is asking about. The Training Benefits Program is typically for people who are already qualified for regular unemployment (laid off, etc.) and then get approved to attend training while receiving benefits.\n\nThe original poster is asking about quitting a job specifically to attend school, which is different. They wouldn't qualify for regular benefits, so they wouldn't qualify for the training extension either.\n\nBut it's a good point to bring up! If someone is laid off and wants to go to school, they should definitely ask about the Training Benefits Program.

Just an update on waiver deadlines - in 2025, ESD extended the response window for overpayment appeals and waiver requests to 35 days (it used to be 30). Make sure you're tracking the exact date on the notice. Also, if you mail any forms, use certified mail so you have proof of when you submitted everything. ESD has been known to claim they never received documents.

I wanted to follow up with one more important detail - your daughter should also request a formal appeal of the overpayment determination within the 35-day window, not just the waiver. This preserves all her rights while you work on the waiver request. The appeal form (called a "Request for Review") can be submitted online through her eServices account or by mail. Also, yes, most forms can now be uploaded directly through the eServices portal. Go to her account, look for "Upload a Document" and select the appropriate form type from the dropdown menu. You'll still want to keep screenshots or confirmation numbers as proof of submission.

i tried the incognito thing someone mentioned above and it worked for me too!!! weird that such a simple fix does the trick.

Just as an FYI for everyone, ESD just posted on their Twitter/X account that they resolved the login issues as of 3:30pm today. All systems should be functioning normally now. If you're still experiencing problems, it might be something specific to your account and you should call the technical support line at 855-682-0785.

I handle payroll for a medium-sized company, and we occasionally have to issue correction payments like this. From the employer side, we typically code these as \

my company just sent a regular check with NOTHING on it explaining what it was for!! so annoying. i had to call HR like 3 times to get them to email me something saying it was back pay!!