Just to clarify one technical point about reopening claims: when you reopen, you're required to register for job search services through WorkSource again and resume your job search activities (3 per week). Even if you were exempt before (like on standby status), you need to check if that exemption still applies when reopening. This is a common issue people miss when reopening claims. The job search requirements are strictly enforced now compared to earlier years.

Let us know how it goes! I'm curious if there are any delays with reopening claims in 2025. When I did mine last year it was pretty quick, but I've heard ESD's systems have been updated since then.

Also my hearing was done by phone, not in person. Make sure ur phone number is updated in the system and that you answer ALL calls during your scheduled hearing time even if the number looks weird. I almost missed mine cuz it came from a weird area code I didn't recognize!

While you're waiting for your hearing date, use this time to thoroughly prepare. Review the ESD Claimant Handbook section on appeals (pages 39-42), gather all documentation about your separation from employment, and consider if you need witnesses. OAH hearings are formal proceedings where both you and ESD will present your case to an Administrative Law Judge, so preparation makes a significant difference in outcomes. When you do receive your hearing notice, it will include important information about your rights, how to submit evidence, and deadlines for doing so. Read every page carefully.

Former ESD employee here. The system is unfortunately designed to manage call volume by disconnecting when all agents are busy, rather than creating long hold queues. Here's what I recommend: 1. Call EXACTLY at 8:00:00 AM when the phone lines open 2. If disconnected, wait 2-3 minutes before trying again (consecutive immediate redials get flagged as spam) 3. Use a landline if possible (more stable connection) 4. Have all your information ready (claim ID, dates, specific questions) 5. Be extremely specific about your issue when you do reach an agent For your job search log issue: if you're getting an error when entering activities, try using different activity types. Some claimants have success with "job application" rather than "job search" activities as the system validates them differently.

I was finally able to get through to ESD last month about a similar issue! I noticed that calling on Wednesday around 3:15pm worked for me. The agent told me that's when their call volume typically dips a bit. Also, make sure you're calling the right number for your specific issue. The general claims line (800-318-6022) is different from the weekly claims line (800-318-6020). Good luck!

make sure u keep doing ur weekly claims even if theyre not paying u yet! my roommate stopped doing them cuz he thought what was the point if they werent paying and then had to start all over when they finally fixed his account

Any updates? Did your pending weeks change to paid yet?

Just a quick update based on other comments - the quarterly wage review is a very likely culprit since we just finished Q1 2025. This happens automatically in their system and often creates a 1-2 week delay while they verify no unreported wages. If that's the case, it should resolve automatically, but calling to confirm is still your best option.

UPDATE: Finally got through to ESD this morning! You guys were right - it was a quarterly review thing. The agent said it should be resolved within 48 hours and my payment should come through by the end of the week. She also mentioned they're supposed to be implementing a new notification system later this year that will actually tell claimants WHY their payment is pending instead of leaving us in the dark. That would be a huge improvement!