I used to work as an ESD claims specialist (left in 2024), so I can give you some insider perspective on adjudication timeframes: 1. The official target is 21 days, but with current staffing that's rarely met when there's a dispute. 2. Average adjudication right now is running 6-8 weeks for contested claims where both parties have differing accounts. 3. Your specific scenario (layoff vs. performance termination) is unfortunately one of the more time-consuming types to resolve because it requires gathering evidence from both sides. 4. The fact that there were 20 other people laid off in your company is helpful evidence. Make sure you've uploaded any documentation showing this was a reduction in force, not individual performance. 5. When employers contest claims, your odds of approval without an interview drop significantly. Be prepared for a fact-finding interview call - have your evidence and timeline ready. 6. Keep filing those weekly claims without fail. Your job search activities are being recorded and will be reviewed if your claim is approved.

My adjudication took 9 weeks in 2025 and I was about to lose my apartment. I called my state representative's office and explained my hardship and they have special channels to contact ESD. Within 3 days of their inquiry my claim was resolved (approved)! Don't wait as long as I did to reach out to your representative.

A quick update on the document requirements - make sure you're also including a completed "Request for Redetermination" form with your paystubs and W-2s. It's available in your eServices account under "Upload a Document" > "Monetary Determination Documents". Also, if you're having trouble getting through to ESD (which is likely), remember that redetermination requests must be submitted within 30 days of receiving your monetary determination letter. Don't miss this deadline while trying to speak with someone on the phone.

One more thing - after you submit your redetermination request, keep filing your weekly claims as normal even though the benefit amount showing is incorrect. Once they process the redetermination, they'll adjust all previous payments to the correct amount. But if you stop filing while waiting for the fix, you'll miss out on those weeks entirely.

Just had all my notes and paperwork organized. The judge was actually pretty nice and just asked questions about timeline of quitting and starting school. Make sure you have exact dates! They're really specific about that stuff

Just wanted to add one more thing - when you do get through to ESD, ask if your CAT approval includes the Training Benefits extension. This is separate from regular UI and can provide additional weeks of benefits while you're in approved training. Not everyone qualifies for it, but it's worth asking about since you're in a healthcare program, which is often considered high-demand.

my freind works at ESD and says theyre super backed up right now cuz of their new computer system update. like thousands of claims in backlog!! she says claims with short work periods get flagged for manual review which is why yours is stuck. keep filing weekly claims tho!!

Following up on your situation - you mentioned the previous benefit year should have ended in April. If that's April 2025 (which is coming up), that could be another factor in the delay. ESD might be waiting until your old benefit year expires before making a determination on the new claim. When you talk to an agent (whether through regular channels or using a service to connect faster), specifically ask these questions: 1. Is my claim pending due to a base year wages verification? 2. Am I eligible for a new claim, or will my old claim be reopened? 3. Is there any additional information I need to provide? 4. Can they expedite the review since it's been over two weeks? Be sure to mention that your former employer has confirmed in writing they won't contest the claim, as this might help speed things up.

No, they just need basic info to connect the call. Nothing invasive. It was worth it for me since I was about to miss my school registration deadline without the approval.

Once you have Commissioner Approved Training (CAT) status, you're typically exempt from job search requirements while you're in the approved training program. That's one of the main benefits! However, there's an important distinction: until you receive the official approval, you MUST continue doing and documenting your job search activities (normally 3 per week). Don't stop your job search activities until you have written confirmation of your CAT approval. Also, keep in mind that Worker Retraining approval has an end date that aligns with your training program. If you take a quarter off or change programs, you need to notify ESD immediately as it can affect your benefits and exemption status.