Has anyone tried requesting a waiver? I saw something about 'equity and good conscience' waivers on their website but wasn't sure if those actually get approved.

UPDATE: I finally got through to ESD using that Claimyr service someone mentioned. The agent confirmed there was a system update that affected waiting week assignments. She put in a request to have my case reviewed by an adjudicator and put a temporary hold on the overpayment collection while they review it. She said I should still file a formal appeal through my online account to protect my appeal rights, but that many of these are being resolved through their internal review process. Fingers crossed!

ESD has been severely understaffed since the post-pandemic budget cuts in 2024. Their phone system is designed to manage call volume by disconnecting callers when all available agents are busy and queue times exceed 45 minutes. This is frustrating but actually more efficient than keeping people on hold for hours. Your best options are: 1. Call on Wednesday or Thursday between 8:00-8:30am or 3:30-4:00pm (avoid Mondays and Fridays completely) 2. Use the eServices message center for all issues that don't require immediate attention 3. Visit a WorkSource office in person if you have one nearby - they can sometimes help with basic claim issues or at least use their direct lines to connect you 4. Contact your state representative's office if your situation is dire (about to lose housing, utilities being cut off, etc.) - they have caseworkers who can escalate ESD issues ESD's current average response time for adjudication is 4-6 weeks, so unfortunately your 3-week wait is still within normal processing times.

Did you ever get through to someone? I'm curious which method ended up working for you.

Anyone know if having a PIp (performance improvement plan) hurts your case? I was put on one 2 weeks before being let go but wasnt given the full time to improve that was promised in the Plan. Thinking of applying for UI but worried this looks bad?

FINAL UPDATE: My claim was APPROVED! Had my fact-finding interview and the adjudicator said that since I didn't have any written warnings and could show the sales targets kept changing, it wasn't considered misconduct. The interviewer also mentioned they could tell I was making an effort to meet the goals. Benefits were deposited yesterday including back pay for the waiting period. Thanks everyone for your help!

Quick update: As of May 2025, ESD has implemented a new adjudication tracking tool on their eServices portal. Have you checked if this feature is available on your account? It should be under

I just checked and I don't see that tab on my account. Maybe they're rolling it out gradually? I'll definitely ask about the hardship payment though - that could be a lifesaver while I wait. Thank you!

If your claim is still showing as "Processing" without any pending issues or disqualifications, it's most likely just a processing delay. Here's what you should know: 1. ESD occasionally has processing backlogs, especially mid-month when their workload increases 2. If there are no messages in your account about issues, that's usually a good sign 3. Wait times for payments can occasionally extend to 4-5 business days 4. It's only considered a true delay if it goes beyond 5 business days If you still don't have your payment by Monday, I'd recommend contacting ESD directly. Make sure you've checked your settings in the ESD portal to confirm your payment method hasn't changed and that there aren't any notifications you might have missed.

update: just got my payment! finally showed up this afternoon. check your accounts everyone, maybe they're processing a batch now