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You really need to be persistent with calling ESD. I'm in the same situation right now - been trying for 2 weeks to find out why I was disqualified. The automated system is a nightmare and doesn't tell you anything useful! I've sent 3 messages through eServices and haven't heard back. This system is broken!
Make sure you're sending messages through the secure messaging system, not the general contact form. Also be specific in your subject line (Example: "Disqualification explanation needed - Claim #12345"). Generic messages often get overlooked in their backlog. Follow up every 3-4 business days if you don't receive a response.
UPDATE: We finally got through to ESD this morning! Turns out his former employer disputed the claim saying he was fired for attendance issues, which is completely untrue. He was part of a layoff with 5 other workers when the project lost funding. The ESD agent said we need to submit documentation showing it was a layoff (we have the layoff notice email from his supervisor). We've started the appeal process and uploaded the documentation. The agent said we should expect a fact-finding interview in about 3 weeks. At least now we know what happened, even though it's frustrating the employer would lie. Thank you everyone for your help!
Great update! Make sure you keep all communication with the supervisor about the layoff. Also, if any of the other laid-off workers are willing to provide statements confirming it was a group layoff, that would strengthen your case significantly. Continue filing weekly claims during this process, and you should receive all back payments if the appeal is successful.
Update for everyone: I just called ESD (finally got through after about 90 minutes) and they confirmed that when you receive an approval letter, they will process payment for all weeks NOT under adjudication, typically within 48-72 business hours. The specific week with an issue will be held separately until that issue is resolved. OP should see payment for the majority of their weeks very soon, with the most recent week paying once the 'able and available' issue is resolved. The agent said these typically take 7-10 days to clear when it's a simple availability question.
I work with a workforce development program that helps people navigate training while on unemployment. Here are some additional facts that might help: 1. You must apply for Training Benefits within the first 52 weeks of your claim 2. If approved for TB, you can get up to 26 additional weeks of benefits beyond your regular UI claim 3. Part-time training doesn't require special approval as long as you maintain your job search requirements 4. For IT specifically, many programs qualify as "high-demand" in Washington state I'd recommend contacting your local WorkSource office too - they have specialists who can help you determine if your training plan will be approved before you invest time applying.
Yes! I applied for Training Benefits and got approved for my IT program. The process took about 3 weeks. I had to submit the TB application through eServices, then provide documentation from my school showing it was an approved program. I also needed to explain why my warehouse experience wasn't leading to stable employment. They ended up approving me since IT is considered high-demand. Now I can focus on school without doing job searches. Best decision I've made!
the same thing happpened to me! one issue disappeared every few days. took about 2 weeks for all 6 of mine to clear and then i got paid for everything at once. hang in there!!
Update us when you get your payment! Fingers crossed it's soon. The good news is that they WILL backpay all those 8 weeks once approved. I know it doesn't help right now with your landlord situation though.
Just wanted to add - make sure you're on time for the hearing (actually, be early and ready 10-15 minutes before). If you miss it, it's very difficult to get a new hearing scheduled and the judge will likely rule against you by default. Also, if you've found new evidence that supports your case, you can sometimes submit it up to 5 business days before the hearing. Check your notice for the exact deadline.
Update: I tried that Claimyr service and actually got through to ESD! The agent looked at my file and said there was confusion about some income from a side gig I did last year. They're still making me do the hearing, but at least now I know exactly what weeks they're questioning and what documentation I need. I've got everything organized and ready for Tuesday. Will update after the hearing to let everyone know how it went!
just wondering - how much was the retro pay if u dont mind sharing? our union is negotiating something similar right now
Based on everyone's feedback and my own experience with ESD, I'd suggest the following steps: 1. Report the retro pay as earnings for week ending 2/23 2. Enter the gross amount (before deductions) 3. Keep copies of both checks and any explanation letter from your employer 4. If your weekly claim gets flagged for review, be prepared to explain it's retro pay from a union settlement 5. Remember this only affects the one week - your claim continues normally after Glad you got this figured out! ESD's system doesn't handle special situations like this very clearly.
From what I understand, the main reasons for denial are: 1) Not demonstrating financial hardship, 2) The overpayment was due to fraud or misrepresentation, or 3) Incomplete documentation. If you meet the hardship criteria and the overpayment wasn't your fault, you should have a good chance at approval.
im in a similar situation after getting laid off from costco last month. still waiting on adjudication and also have rent due soon. been eating ramen for 2 weeks lol. let me know if any of these suggestions actually work for you
Quick update on holiday processing: While the ESD office is closed to the public on the holiday, some of their automated systems and processing still runs in the background. So while new actions requiring a human won't happen, some claims that were already in the final stages of processing might still move forward. Keep checking your account on Tuesday as they typically process a large batch after holidays.
Ben Cooper
my cousin quit to take care of her sick mom and got denied because she didnt have enough proof that nobody else could do it. make sure u can show you really tried EVERYTHING else first
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Darcy Moore
Update: Had my hearing today and Judge Ray was fair and professional. She asked specific questions about my childcare attempts and why my children needed my direct care. I presented my documentation including the doctor statements about why my children need parental care due to their specific conditions, records of school incidents, and emails showing I tried to get accommodations at work. She said she'd mail the decision in 10-14 days but seemed sympathetic to my situation. Thanks everyone for the advice - being prepared with everything organized made a huge difference!
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Naila Gordon
•That sounds promising! Fingers crossed for you! Please let us know when you get the decision!
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Manny Lark
•Good job being prepared. That organization and documentation is exactly what judges need to rule in your favor. The law does allow for your circumstances, it's just a matter of properly demonstrating that you meet all the criteria.
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