One important thing to remember - if you're transitioning from standby to regular UI because you reported reduced hours, make sure you start logging your job search activities (3 per week) ASAP. Even if you're still waiting for the adjudication to complete. If they determine you need to switch to regular UI, they'll expect you to have been doing job searches during this time. I learned this the hard way and almost lost a week of benefits because I didn't have job search logs for the week I was in adjudication.

I'm dealing with almost the exact same situation right now! Week 4 of standby went fine, but week 5 got flagged for adjudication. In my case, I think it was triggered because I reported some part-time hours for the first time after weeks of zero earnings. From what I'm reading in these comments, it sounds like the combination of hitting the 4-week standby threshold AND reporting earnings is what sets off their review system. They want to verify if you should stay on standby or transition to regular UI with job search requirements. I've been trying to get through to ESD for days with no luck. Might have to try that Claimyr service if this drags on much longer. The uncertainty is killing me - I just want to know what they need from me to resolve this! Keep us posted on how it goes, and definitely keep filing your weekly claims even without payment. Sounds like that's crucial for getting backpay once they sort it out.

btw if u do decide to switch from direct deposit to the card or vice versa you can do it online through ur eServices account. go to UI claim > settings > payment options. takes effect for the next payment after u make the change.

Just wanted to add another perspective - I've been using the ReliaCard for about 6 months and while the speed is great, there are some hidden costs to consider. The "free" ATM withdrawals are only at specific ATMs (mostly 7-Eleven and some bank ATMs), and if you need cash elsewhere you're looking at $2.50+ fees. Also learned the hard way that international transactions (even online purchases from some foreign websites) get blocked automatically and you have to call to unlock your account. The 2-3 day wait for direct deposit might be worth it if you do most of your banking online and don't need immediate cash access.

Glad we could help! Temp workers definitely have the same unemployment rights as everyone else in Washington.

Just wanted to add that when you file, make sure to report any severance pay or final paychecks you received from the temp agency. Washington ESD needs to know about all compensation to properly calculate your benefits timing. Also, keep records of when each assignment ended in case they ask for details later.

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago! Changed my bank account info and immediately got thrown into adjudication - it was so stressful. The good news is that it really is just a routine identity verification process. In my case, it took about 8 business days to resolve, and I got all my back payments in one lump sum once it was cleared. One thing that helped me was making sure to check my ESD messages every single day - they sometimes request additional documents or clarification through the messaging system rather than calling. Also, when I called, I made sure to have my claim number, Social Security number, and all the documents I'd uploaded ready to reference. The waiting is the worst part, but try to stay calm - this is actually a good sign that the system is working to protect your benefits from fraud!

I'm dealing with something similar right now - had to change my bank info last week and now I'm stuck in adjudication too. It's really reassuring to see so many people saying this is normal, even though it's incredibly stressful when you're living paycheck to paycheck. I've been checking my ESD account multiple times a day and filing my weekly claims like everyone suggested. The worst part is not knowing exactly when it'll be resolved. Has anyone had success getting a timeline estimate when they called the adjudication line? I'm trying to decide if I should call now or wait a few more days.

Regarding collections during appeals: ESD can begin collection activities while your appeal is pending, but they typically don't move to wage garnishment immediately. Setting up even a minimal payment plan (like $25/month) can prevent more aggressive collection actions. For your situation with PEUC and job search requirements, I'd recommend: 1. File your appeal immediately through eServices (under the Unemployment Claims section, not just from the notice) 2. Explicitly state in your appeal that you understood job search requirements were modified during the period in question, and that you complied with the requirements as they were communicated at that time 3. Request a waiver based on both administrative error (changing/unclear requirements) AND financial hardship 4. Include any emails or screenshots showing the job search information you submitted at the time In your hearing, focus on the unclear guidance during COVID transitions and how you attempted to comply with requirements as you understood them. Success rates for appeals on COVID-era overpayments have been higher than standard overpayments.

I'm going through something very similar right now! Got hit with a $3,100 overpayment notice last week for PEUC benefits from 2021. Like you, I'm completely confused because I thought I was following all the rules at the time. One thing that's helped me is keeping a detailed log of every attempt to contact ESD - date, time, what happened (busy signal, disconnected, etc.). I've heard this documentation can be useful if you end up in a hearing to show you made good faith efforts to resolve things. Also, I found out there's a difference between the "Petition for Review" (which is the formal appeal) and the overpayment waiver request. You apparently need to do both if you want the full waiver option. The waiver form is called "Request for Overpayment Waiver" but it's buried pretty deep in the eServices system. Has anyone had luck with contacting their state representative's office for help? I'm considering that route since the regular phone lines are impossible. Good luck with everything - this whole situation is so stressful!