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Just wondering - did you select the right reason for separation when you filed? If you selected "laid off" instead of "business closed" that could be causing the delay. You might need to call and have them correct the separation reason in their system.
I'm pretty sure I selected "business closed" but now I'm second-guessing myself. Is there a way to check what I selected in my eServices account? I don't see that information anywhere in my claim details.
Have you tried contacting the Office of Administrative Hearings directly? Sometimes they can give you updates on your appeal status when ESD won't. Their number should be on your appeal paperwork. Also, while waiting, make sure you're keeping detailed records of ALL your job search activities - more than the minimum 3 per week if possible. This helps if they question your job search later.
Just to add one more thing to think about - do you have your hearing scheduled yet with OAH? If not, you might want to check if your appeal was actually received and processed. Sometimes paperwork gets lost in the system. Call the OAH directly (not ESD) to confirm they have your appeal in their system.
Just wanted to say I'm really sorry you and your family are going through this. The system is absolutely broken, and it's infuriating that there's no clear communication during adjudication. Have you looked into emergency assistance programs while you wait? Most counties have emergency rental assistance and food banks that don't have the same wait times as ESD.
I just went thru this nightmare!!!! What finally worked for me was emailing my state senator AND representative on the same day explaining my hardship (I was about to be evicted). Got a call from ESD within 48 hours after WEEKS of nothing!!! The lady said my claim was just sitting there basically waiting to be assigned to an adjudicator. So frustrating!!! They backdated everything once it was approved though. Hang in there and DEFINITELY contact your elected officials!!!
Wow, that's both encouraging and infuriating to hear! Just sitting there waiting to be assigned?! I've already emailed my representative this morning after seeing the earlier suggestion. I'll add my state senator to the list too. Did you just find their contact info on the state legislature website?
mine took like 6 weeks from when i appealed till hearing then another 2 weeks to get decision in mail. but i heard they backpay u for all weeks if u win so just keep doing weekly claims
One final piece of advice: during your hearing, stick to the facts and timeline. Don't get emotional or make accusations about your employer's motives, even if you believe they're acting in bad faith. The judge wants to hear what happened, not how you feel about what happened. Keep your statements clear and factual: "I was on approved FMLA until [date]. I communicated with HR on [dates] about my return. I have email evidence showing I intended to return to work. I never resigned or abandoned my position." Good luck with your appeal! Based on what you've shared, you have a strong case.
Ayla Kumar
one more thing make sure u keep doing ur job search activities!!! now that ur fully unemployed u need to do all 3 job contacts every week. ESD is super strict about that
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Clay blendedgen
•Good reminder! I was still doing the 3 job search activities even with my part-time job (my WorkSource advisor told me I had to), but it's definitely important to keep up with those.
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Lorenzo McCormick
Final tip: After you submit your weekly claim with the job separation, call ESD within 2-3 business days to confirm everything looks good on their end. This proactive approach can save you weeks of waiting if there is an issue. The earlier you catch any potential problems, the faster they can be resolved. You'll want to have your separation details and last day of work ready when you call.
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