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ESD doesn't track unsuccessful call attempts, which is why documentation on your end is important. For escalation purposes, I generally recommend:\n\n- At least 8-10 documented call attempts over 2+ weeks\n- 2-3 messages sent through eServices with no response after 7+ days\n- Waiting at least 3-4 weeks in adjudication before seeking outside assistance\n\nHowever, if you're facing immediate financial crisis (eviction, utilities shutoff, inability to afford medication), you shouldn't wait that long before seeking escalation help.
This gives me hope! I've been stuck in adjudication for 6 weeks and my case seems to have just disappeared into the void. I keep getting told "it's under review" with no timeline. My rent is due in 10 days and I'm down to my last $200. Quick question - when you called the Governor's office, did you need to provide your claim number or any specific details beyond just explaining your situation? And did they give you any kind of reference number or confirmation that they submitted your case for escalation? I'm definitely going to try this approach tomorrow morning. Thanks for sharing your success story - sometimes you need to hear that it's actually possible to get through this nightmare!
same here. between the advice in this thread and getting through to washington esd via that claimyr service, everything is working smoothly now
This is such a comprehensive thread! I'm new to unemployment benefits and was completely overwhelmed by all the requirements. Reading through everyone's experiences really helps clarify what I need to do. I had no idea about the WorkSource registration deadline or how detailed the job search documentation needs to be. Going to start keeping better records right away and make sure my WorkSource profile is properly set up. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this saved me from making a lot of mistakes!
Welcome to the community! You're definitely in the right place to get help with Washington ESD requirements. It really is overwhelming at first, but once you get the system down it becomes much more manageable. Make sure to start that detailed job search log immediately - even if you've already been applying for jobs, go back and document what you can remember. The WorkSource registration is crucial too, so definitely prioritize getting that set up properly. Don't hesitate to ask if you have specific questions as you work through the process!
Thanks everyone for all the information. This thread has been more helpful than anything I found on the Washington ESD website. At least now I know what my options are and aren't.
I'm in a really similar situation - my graphic design business completely dried up after losing my biggest client. Reading through all these comments has been eye-opening. I had no idea about the voluntary unemployment insurance program either, and like most of you, I'm definitely not eligible since I never paid into it. It's frustrating that as self-employed people we're kind of left out in the cold when things go wrong. I'm going to look into some of the other resources mentioned here like WorkSource and DSHS programs. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - at least now I know I'm not alone in this situation and there might be some other options out there.
The whole process seems overwhelming at first but it's really not that bad once you get started. Just take it step by step and don't stress too much about making everything perfect. Washington ESD will let you know if they need additional information.
I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago when my company laid off our entire department. Yes, you absolutely qualify for unemployment benefits in Washington since you were laid off through no fault of your own. The key thing is to file your claim online at esd.wa.gov TODAY - don't wait even another day. I made the mistake of waiting a few days thinking I might hear back from job applications, but you can't backdate claims. The process is actually pretty straightforward for layoffs compared to other types of job separations. You'll need your Social Security number, employment history for the past 18 months, and wage information. Since you worked full-time for 2 years, you should easily meet the wage requirements. Hang in there - the benefits will help bridge the gap while you look for your next opportunity!
Ethan Taylor
DONT GET YOUR HOPES UP!!! I went thru this whole process and they DENIED my waiver even though it was THEIR MISTAKE not mine!!1! I spent 14 weeks waiting just to get denied. Now they're garnishing my tax returns. The whole system is designed to screw over regular people. The appeals process is a joke too.
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Luca Romano
•sorry that happened to you! did u try contacting your state representative? my friend had to do that when ESD wasn't responding and it actually worked
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Ethan Taylor
•No I didn't think of that. How do you even do that? At this point I've just given up hope with ESD. They're impossible.
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Zara Rashid
Just an update on processing times - I checked with a colleague who works with ESD cases, and she mentioned that they've been prioritizing pandemic-era overpayment waivers recently. Some are being processed in as little as 4-5 weeks now. The key factors that help get approval are: 1. Clear documentation that the overpayment wasn't due to fraud 2. Evidence that repaying would cause financial hardship 3. Proof that you reported information as accurately as you understood at the time For those waiting, it's also good to know that collections activities are supposed to be paused while your waiver request is under review.
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StarStrider
•That's really helpful information, thank you! That gives me some hope. I definitely reported everything as accurately as I understood it - the whole pandemic UI system was confusing, especially with the changing rules around part-time work.
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Finley Garrett
•@Zara Rashid This is super helpful info! Do you know if there s'a specific way we should document the financial hardship piece? I m'working part-time now but still struggling to make ends meet, and that $4,900 would definitely cause hardship if I had to pay it back. Should I include bank statements or something like that?
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