One thing that helped me was understanding that 'under review' can mean different things at different stages. Early on, it usually means they're verifying basic eligibility. Later in the process, it might mean they're reviewing specific separation details or job search compliance.

Bottom line: if you were laid off through no fault of your own, filed your claim correctly, and continue filing weekly claims, you should be approved eventually. The timeline varies, but the outcome is usually positive for straightforward layoffs. Try to be patient (easier said than done, I know).

After you've filed the police report and contacted ESD, be sure to also: 1. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) 2. Check your Social Security statement to ensure no one is reporting false wages 3. Contact the IRS Identity Protection Unit at 800-908-4490 The fact that you have clear documentation of your incarceration during the exact period of the claims is actually very helpful. It's unambiguous proof you couldn't have filed those claims yourself.

I'm really sorry this happened to you. Identity theft is awful enough without having to deal with it while you're getting back on your feet after incarceration. One thing to keep in mind - ESD actually has a specific process for situations like yours where benefits were fraudulently claimed while someone was incarcerated. They see this type of case regularly and understand that you're a victim, not a perpetrator. When you call the fraud line, specifically mention that you were incarcerated during the entire period the claims were filed - they have procedures to fast-track these cases. Also, don't worry about this affecting your future legitimate claims once it's resolved. ESD keeps a record that you reported the fraud, which actually protects you if any issues come up later. You're handling this exactly right by being proactive about it.

This hole system is garbage!! I had 2 do THREE of these stupid appointments last year. Complete waste of time. They just tell u the same basic stuff about resumes every time. But u gotta do it or they cut ur benefits. smh

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Got my first text 3 days ago saying I need to schedule by July 1st, but still no letter in my ESD account. This is so reassuring to hear it's a common system glitch and not just me. I'm definitely going to try visiting the WorkSource office in person like @Amara Okafor suggested - that seems way more reliable than trying to get through on their phone lines. And I'll make sure to bring my photo ID and ESD customer number. @Yuki Kobayashi - so glad your letter finally showed up! Gives me hope mine will appear soon too. I've been checking my portal obsessively multiple times a day. Did you get any confirmation email after scheduling your appointment? Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences. It's crazy that we all have to become experts in navigating their broken system just to keep our benefits!

This has been super educational! I work part-time and collect partial unemployment, and my status also shows eligible redetermined. Good to know it applies to partial claims too and doesn't mean anything scary.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! My status changed to 'eligible redetermined' yesterday and I was panicking thinking I did something wrong. Reading through all these responses is such a relief - sounds like it's actually a good thing that they reviewed everything and I'm still eligible. The Washington ESD website really needs to explain these status changes better instead of leaving people to guess what they mean. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences!

I remember when this happened to me last year! I just kept doing my job searches but mostly applied to positions that closed soon or had been open a while. Then when I certified each week I made sure to report that I had accepted a job with a future start date in the section where they ask if anything has changed. Never had any problems with it. Congrats on the new job!

Just want to add another perspective - I was in a similar situation a few months ago with a 5-week gap between accepting a job and starting. I called ESD and they told me that as long as I'm honest about having accepted a position when I certify weekly, and I continue doing my required job search activities, I wouldn't have any issues. The key is transparency. I ended up getting two interview requests during that period and I was upfront with both employers right at the beginning of the call/email that I had accepted another position but was required to maintain job search activities. One employer actually appreciated my honesty and said they'd keep me in mind for future openings. The other just thanked me for my time and ended the call. No drama, no wasted time for anyone. Good luck with your new job!