One other important thing to remember is that you still need to do your 3 job search activities each week, even while the overpayment is being sorted out. I've seen people get denied because they thought they could skip this requirement while dealing with other ESD issues. Keep detailed records of all your job search activities!

Just to follow up on your question - yes, virtual job fairs still count as a job search activity as of 2025. Also, I want to clarify about the offset process: while 50% is standard, ESD does have an official financial hardship application that can reduce the offset percentage if you can demonstrate that the 50% offset would cause significant financial hardship. You'll need to provide documentation of your expenses versus income. The form is available in your eServices account under the "Upload a Document" section.

What a nightmare these different systems are! I had to transition from PFML to UI last year after a surgery and ended up in adjudication hell for SIX WEEKS because of confusion about my work status. ESD kept saying I wasn't able to work even though I had a doctor's note - turns out they were looking at my PFML end date incorrectly. TRUST ME - apply exactly on January 5th (not before, not after), upload that doctor's note immediately, AND call ESD on the same day to explain your situation. You need to get ahead of any potential confusion. Also, make sure your PFML claim shows as properly closed in the system. I'd go with the seasonal layoff explanation if your employer agrees. Anything medical-related tends to trigger extra scrutiny from ESD about whether you're truly able and available for work.

Wait you can go from PFML straight to unemployment??? I thought that wasn't allowed!

YES!!! The money finally hit my account this morning! All 7 weeks came through as one lump sum. Exactly 6 business days after updating my banking info. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help and advice.

That's great news! Glad it worked out and didn't take too long in the end.

mine just changed to PAID!!! check yours guys. its 1:45pm here

For future reference, these delays tend to happen around the same time every quarter - usually the third week of January, April, July and October when they do their system maintenance. I always budget a little extra cushion during these weeks just in case. Glad everyone's payments are coming through now!

An update would be great when your son figures out what the issue was! It helps others with similar problems. In my experience, most payment delays after approval are resolved within 2-3 weeks once you get through to the right person. The challenge is getting through their phone system.

UPDATE: Success! My son FINALLY got through to ESD this morning. Turns out there was an identity verification hold that wasn't showing up anywhere on his account. They needed him to upload his driver's license and social security card to verify his identity, which he did while on the phone. The agent said payments should process within 48 hours and include all backpay. The agent also mentioned this is super common right now due to increased fraud prevention measures. Thanks everyone for the advice! Special thanks to whoever suggested Claimyr - that's what finally got him through after trying for days.