Has anyone tried uploading their identity docs multiple times? I've heard sometimes the uploads fail on ESD's end even though it shows as successful on our end. I'm thinking about re-uploading mine just in case.

UPDATE: I wanted to let everyone know what worked for me! I ended up trying multiple approaches: 1) Contacted my state rep's office yesterday morning, 2) Used Claimyr to get through to ESD yesterday afternoon, and 3) Re-uploaded my documents with better lighting/resolution. The claims specialist I spoke with using Claimyr was actually able to look at my documents in real-time and said my driver's license photo was too dark for their verification system. I immediately took better photos and uploaded them while on the phone. They flagged my account for review and this morning my identity was verified! My payments are now processing. The state rep's office also reached out and said they'd follow up, but the Claimyr route got me to someone who could actually fix the specific issue. Thanks everyone for your help - I was seriously panicking about rent!

Since you mentioned being worried about paying rent - one additional piece of advice is to immediately file your application the day after your last day worked, and then set calendar reminders to file your weekly claims on the same day each week (Sunday is usually easiest, since the claim week runs Sunday-Saturday). Even if your initial application is still pending, you need to keep filing weekly claims. Any weeks you don't file, you won't receive payment for - even retroactively. Also, be aware that your first check will be smaller than you might expect because: 1. The waiting week (no payment) 2. Federal and potentially state taxes if you choose to have them withheld (recommended) 3. Your benefit amount will be approximately 60-70% of your previous wage up to the maximum If you're really concerned about the timeline, you might want to talk to your landlord proactively and see if they can work with you on the timing for your next rent payment.

also make sure u have a phone number JUST FOR YOU on the application!!! my partner and i shared a phone and they kept getting confused when they called and he answered instead of me lol

If you're really concerned about your claim status, I'd recommend taking action rather than waiting. When I couldn't get answers about my claim, I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to connect with an ESD agent. Once I got through, the agent was able to see that my claim had a small issue that was preventing it from moving forward - something that wouldn't have been resolved without me calling. They fixed it on the spot, and I got my first payment the following week. Sometimes being proactive is the only way to get movement with ESD.

To answer your question about phone numbers - ESD typically calls from their main number (800-318-6022), but they sometimes use regional office numbers as well. The call might show as "Washington State" or just the number. Since they usually only try to call once or twice before putting your claim on hold, it's a good practice to answer calls from any Washington State numbers during business hours when you're waiting for ESD contact. Regarding your claim status - "processing" for 6+ weeks is longer than usual, even with current timelines. It might be worth checking if there are any unresolved issues or requested information in your online account that needs addressing.

My sister just went through this with her PFMLA claim. She ended up having to use some saved PTO to supplement her leave because the benefit amount was so much lower than expected. It really does feel like the system is designed to confuse people and pay out less. The same thing happened when I was on unemployment in 2024 - they used my 2023 wages even though I had a raise right before being laid off.

Thanks everyone for all the explanations. Still feels unfair but at least I understand why it's happening now. I've checked with my HR and they don't offer any supplemental benefits, so I'll use some of my PTO to help cover the gap. Really appreciate all the insights!

Something else to consider - make sure you're presenting evidence about the SPECIFIC weeks ESD is claiming were misreported. I've seen people bring lots of evidence but for the wrong time periods, which doesn't help your case. The overpayment notice should list exactly which weeks are in question. Also, during the hearing, be very clear and concise with your explanations. The judges hear many cases each day, so being organized makes a big difference. And don't get emotional or ramble about how unfair ESD is - just stick to the facts about hours worked and reported.

One last bit of advice - during the phone hearing, the judge will likely ask your husband's employer to explain their records first. TAKE NOTES about what they say! Often, employers make vague statements or can't explain discrepancies when questioned directly by the judge. When it's your turn to speak, you can then address any inconsistencies in their testimony. Be very specific: "The employer claims my husband worked 8 hours on January 15th, but as shown in Exhibit C, he was actually at a doctor's appointment that day..." The burden of proof is technically on ESD/the employer to prove you received benefits incorrectly. Your job is to create reasonable doubt about their evidence.

The phone system is frustrating by design. I've worked with hundreds of ESD claimants and the most effective approach actually isn't calling repeatedly. Try these alternatives: 1. Use the eServices secure message system - responses typically come within 4-7 business days 2. Visit a WorkSource center in person (bring ID) - they can't resolve adjudication issues but can often tell you what's holding up your claim 3. Contact your state representative's office - they have liaison channels 4. If your claim is in adjudication, understand that constant calling won't speed it up That said, if you absolutely must speak with someone by phone, the specialized services mentioned above (like Claimyr) do work for many people. The key is understanding that ESD is dealing with thousands of claims - persistence and patience are unfortunately necessary.

UPDATE: I finally got through! Used the 7:58am trick and pressed the number sequence mentioned above. Got placed in queue after my 7th attempt. Waited 55 minutes but finally spoke to a real person who fixed my claim issue. My adjudication was completed while I was on the phone and payments should process tonight. THANK YOU all for the advice!!!

One thing I forgot to mention - check if your former employer has responded to the ESD inquiry about your separation. You can call your old workplace HR department and ask if they've received and responded to the ESD claim notice. Sometimes employers miss these notices or delay responding, which holds up the whole process. If they haven't responded, kindly ask them to do so ASAP as it's affecting your benefits.

After reading through this thread again, I'd suggest taking up the recommendation to use Claimyr to get through to an agent. At this point, speaking with someone directly will be your fastest path to resolution. Just make sure you have all your information ready when you call - your SSN, claim ID number, employment history dates, and any correspondence you've received from ESD. The agent will need to verify your identity before discussing your claim details. Also, if your financial situation is becoming dire, you might want to look into hardship assistance programs while waiting for your unemployment to be approved. Most counties have emergency rental assistance and utility payment help available. Don't wait until you're completely out of funds to seek these resources.

ESD is the worst!!! i won my appeal in march and STILL havent gotten all my backpay!!! they sent me part of it after 3 weeks but are "still processing" the rest. every time i call they tell me something different. hope u have better luck than me!!!!

Does anyone know if having a debit card versus direct deposit makes a difference in how quickly you get paid after an appeal? I'm wondering if I should switch my payment method before my decision comes through.

One thing I want to clarify for everyone: When your benefit year ends while you're receiving benefits, ESD will automatically review your claim for a new benefit year. There are three possible outcomes: 1. You qualify for a new UI claim based on your work history - ESD establishes this automatically 2. You don't qualify for a new claim - you'll be notified and given appeal rights 3. Your claim goes into adjudication while they verify details - this sometimes happens and may require additional information The most important thing is to keep filing your weekly claims without interruption and respond promptly to any correspondence from ESD. This ensures you don't miss any benefits during the transition.

My neighbor went thru this and ESD messed up his claim when the benefit year changed. he lost like 2 weeks of benefits cuz of there mistake and they never fixed it. good luck getting anyone to help when they screw up!!

Quick update on my previous comment - I just remembered that if the overpayment you paid exceeds $10,000, the refund needs additional approval steps and typically takes longer (more like 60-75 days). Since you mentioned paying back $21,500, your refund will likely fall into this category and require additional review.

Anyone else notice that ESD seems to approve waivers AFTER people have already paid everything back? I've talked to 4 different people who all had the same experience - paid thousands, then suddenly got approved for a waiver they requested months/years earlier. Seems suspiciously convenient for ESD's budget...