UPDATE: I finally got through to ESD! The "pending issue" was that they needed proof of my job search activities. I've been doing the activities but hadn't uploaded the log yet because I thought that was only required after you start receiving payments. My fault for not reading everything carefully enough. I uploaded my job search log and the rep said payments should process within 48 hours. Lesson learned - make sure you're completing AND documenting all required activities from day one!

Glad you got it resolved! This is a common misunderstanding. Even though the monetary determination letter approves you for benefits, you still need to meet all eligibility requirements each week, including the job search requirements (usually 3 activities per week unless you have standby status). For anyone else reading this: always upload your job search log as soon as possible. Even if you think you don't need to yet, it's better to have it in the system. ESD sometimes does random checks, and if they can't verify your job search activities, they'll put a hold on payments until you provide documentation.

To add some clarity: When ESD places you in default status after missing a hearing, it means the judge made a decision based only on the evidence in your file, without your testimony. Since you didn't receive benefits and subsequently found employment, there are two distinct considerations: 1. For this specific claim: You don't need to worry about overpayments since you never received money. You should formally withdraw your claim by sending a message through eServices stating you found employment on X date and are withdrawing all pending appeals/claims. 2. For future claims: The default judgment creates a determination in your record. If you ever need to file for unemployment again, you may want to request a copy of that determination so you understand if there were any disqualifying issues noted that might affect future claims. This is really more about record-keeping than any immediate concern.

One thing to remember is that there's a statute of limitations on these matters too. After a certain period (typically 3 years), ESD can no longer pursue most claims against you. Since you never received benefits, this is more of a technicality, but worth knowing for peace of mind.

Something I forgot to mention earlier - if your appeal is successful, make sure to check your payment history once payments resume. Sometimes ESD misses paying certain weeks or calculates the wrong benefit amount for some weeks. I had to call them to fix two weeks they somehow skipped even though I had filed claims for them. Also, interest does NOT accrue on back payments owed to you, in case you were wondering.

Thanks everyone for the helpful info. I'll definitely keep filing my weekly claims, and I'll plan to contact ESD about 10 business days after the hearing if I don't see any movement. I've been documenting everything carefully, so hopefully that helps if there are any issues. Still worried about making January rent, but at least I have a better idea of the timeline now. I'm going to look into those emergency rental assistance programs just as a backup plan.

Honestly, ESD is the worst. I waited 9 weeks for my claim last year and almost lost everything. If you have a car, I'd seriously consider doing DoorDash or Uber until your claim processes. That's what saved me. The system is completely broken and they don't care if we end up homeless.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: I just checked the ESD website and they've added a new form specifically for hardship expedite requests. Log into your eServices account, go to your dashboard, click on 'Upload a Document' and select 'Hardship Expedite Request' from the dropdown. You'll need to upload proof of your housing situation (eviction notice, past due bills, etc). This is brand new as of last month and seems to be working faster than calling.

The ESD system is COMPLETELY BROKEN for trades and seasonal workers!!! I spent 6 weeks trying to get my benefits approved during my last training period and then they wanted all kinds of additional documentation that wasn't listed anywhere on their website. By the time it was approved, my training was almost over. Make sure you start this process EARLY and document EVERYTHING. Take screenshots of every page you submit, record the names of every ESD agent you talk to, and follow up constantly. The system is designed to make you give up!!

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm going to: 1. File my initial claim at the start of Christmas break 2. Complete my waiting week during that time 3. Do the required job searches during the Christmas break period 4. Request the Training Benefits application for my February apprenticeship training 5. Get documentation from my training coordinator about the mandatory nature of the training 6. Keep detailed records of everything I submit I really appreciate all the insights and warnings about potential pitfalls. This community has been super helpful!