The problem with ESD is they're so INCONSISTENT!! My friend and I had almost identical overpayment situations but she got a payment plan of $60/month and they wanted me to pay $225/month!! When I asked why, they just gave me some generic explanation about "financial assessment" but wouldn't explain the actual formula. Its just whoever you get on the phone that day and what mood theyre in!!! The whole system is broken.

To add to my earlier comment about winning appeals - preparation is everything. The Administrative Law Judges who hear these cases have very specific procedures. A few more tips: 1. The burden of proof is on ESD, not you. They must prove you weren't eligible. 2. You can request a postponement if you need more time to gather evidence. 3. You can call witnesses (like former employers) to testify on your behalf. 4. Keep your testimony focused on the specific issue in the determination letter. Regarding repayment: if you're experiencing financial hardship, you can request a reduction or waiver of the overpayment. You'll need to complete ESD's financial statement form and provide documentation of your income and expenses. In extreme cases of hardship, I've seen ESD waive overpayments entirely.

my friend did the WorkSource thing and said they helped him with resume writing and interview practice which was actually useful. maybe try that part even if their training isn't AI specific

To update on your question about online certifications: Online training CAN qualify for CAT if it's from an approved provider and is part of a structured program with defined start/end dates and course hours. Self-paced learning generally doesn't qualify. I'd recommend these steps: 1. Set up an appointment with a WorkSource career counselor (they're familiar with what ESD typically approves) 2. Bring a list of specific AI programs you're interested in 3. Ask them to help you determine which would likely qualify for CAT 4. Have them help you with the application paperwork In my experience, having a WorkSource counselor advocate for your application increases approval chances substantially. They know exactly what documentation ESD is looking for.

Another approach could be to call ESD and ask about a "standby" status for your husband's situation. Sometimes with seasonal or periodic work interruptions, standby status can be more appropriate than regular unemployment. However, I'm not sure if apprenticeship training weeks qualify under the standby rules - that's something an ESD agent would need to confirm.

I'm confused - if he's in class during that week, isn't that considered "available for work"? I thought you had to be able and available to get unemployment? Or is there a special rule for apprenticeship classes?

Here's what most people don't know: ESD has an internal policy that hardship cases involving eviction, utility disconnection, or medical emergencies should be prioritized. However, this only happens if you specifically request hardship prioritization and provide documentation. When you call the governor's office again (which you should do Monday morning), tell them: 1. You have a formal eviction notice (and can provide it) 2. You need your case marked for "hardship prioritization" 3. You need them to transfer your request to the "ESD Executive Review Team" These specific phrases can help move your case faster. The standard adjudication time is currently running 6-8 weeks unless specifically expedited. I work with a community resource center and we've helped several people navigate this exact situation. The system is frustrating, but there are ways to move through it more efficiently if you know the right terminology and procedures.

One more thing to try - if you have a state representative or senator, their constituent services can sometimes be even more effective than the governor's office. They often have direct contacts with ESD leadership. You can find your representatives here: app.leg.wa.gov/districtfinder Send them an email explaining your situation and include your claim ID, contact info, and mention the eviction notice. Sometimes they can get things moving within 24-48 hours. Let us know how it goes!

Just so you know they'll probably aska bunch of questions about WHY you were on PFML and if you could work now...they always look for excuses not to pay people... make sure you've got doctors note saying your cleared to work again!!! Thats what tripped me up!

Just checking back - were you able to get this resolved? If you went to WorkSource, they should have been able to help you submit the right documentation to get your claim reactivated. The key with transitioning from PFML back to UI is proving that: 1. Your PFML benefits have officially ended 2. You're able and available for work again 3. You've been continuously filing weekly claims If you're still having issues, you might need to request a formal determination review.