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.

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!

Just wanted to follow up: did you manage to file your weekly claim? If you're still having issues, make sure you're calling during the correct timeframe (Sunday-Friday, 8am-4pm) and that you haven't missed your filing deadline. Each week has a specific window when you can file.

So glad you got it sorted out! For anyone else reading this thread - I work at a local workforce center and we've been getting a lot of calls about this exact issue. The ESD phone system changes seem to be causing confusion for a lot of people. If you're still having trouble after trying all the suggestions here, you can also visit your local WorkSource office and they can help you file your weekly claim in person. Most offices are open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. Just bring your SSN and any documents related to your claim.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more confident about taking this contract work now. I'll report everything properly and keep good records. Sounds like as long as I'm honest about it, I should be fine.

Just wanted to add my experience - I've been doing occasional freelance web development while on unemployment for the past few months. The key thing I learned is to be super precise about the dates when you actually performed the work vs when you got paid. I had one project where I worked 3 days in one week and 2 days the following week, but got paid in a lump sum later. I reported the earnings proportionally across those specific days I worked ($300 for week 1, $200 for week 2) and it went smoothly. Also keep detailed time logs if possible - Washington ESD appreciates when you can show exactly how you calculated your weekly earnings breakdown.

Don't forget to check if your hearing is scheduled during regular business hours or if they offer evening/weekend slots. I had to request a different time because of work conflicts, and they were accommodating. Also, make sure you have a backup phone number in case they can't reach you on your primary line - missing the call means you automatically lose. Write down the hearing number and keep it handy during the call so you can reference it if needed.

I've been through the Washington ESD appeal process and wanted to add a few more tips that really helped me. First, if you're feeling overwhelmed by the legal aspects, many local legal aid organizations offer free consultations for unemployment cases - even just 30 minutes can help you understand your rights better. Second, practice staying calm if your former employer says things that aren't true during their testimony. You'll get your chance to respond, so don't interrupt. Third, if you have any documentation showing you looked for other solutions before quitting (like requesting a transfer, asking for mediation, etc.), make sure to include that. It strengthens your case that quitting was truly your last resort. The judges really want to see that you tried everything possible before leaving. You've got this - having evidence of hostile behavior and complaints to HR puts you in a good position!