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!

have u tried emailing them? sometimes that works better than phones

UPDATE: We finally got through!!! Used the Claimyr service this morning and got connected to an actual human at ESD within 20 minutes. Turns out there was a flag on the account because my husband's employer hadn't responded to ESD's verification request. The agent was able to override it since this is a known seasonal pattern and they can see the history from previous years. Benefits should be deposited within 48 hours! I'm so relieved I could cry. Thank you everyone for your help and suggestions!

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.

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.

also btw they ask if ur job is permanent when u file each week so make sure u mark YES since u got hired full time even if its not 40 hrs. my friend marked NO cuz she was on probation period and got flagged for review!!

One more important thing - if your hours increase to 40+ per week or your pay increases, make sure you still report that for your weekly claims. Technically, your claim stays open for a year from when you first applied, but once you have those 4 consecutive weeks over your WBA, it goes inactive. You can always reactivate it within that year if your hours get cut or something changes with your job.