One final tip - make a copy of everything before you send it and keep detailed records of when and how you sent the appeal. You'll need this information if there are any questions later.

I went through this exact situation about 8 months ago and successfully got my denial overturned. Here's what worked for me: Start your letter with a clear header including your full name, SSN, claim number, and contact info. Then state exactly what you're appealing - reference the specific denial decision and date. The key is to organize your argument into clear sections: 1) Why you disagree with their decision, 2) Facts that support your eligibility, 3) Any documentation you're including as evidence. Keep it professional and factual - no emotional language. I also recommend typing it rather than handwriting, and definitely send it certified mail with return receipt. The whole process took about 6 weeks from appeal to hearing, but I got my benefits approved retroactively. Don't give up - many initial denials get overturned on appeal if you present your case clearly!

I just wanted to follow up since several people mentioned Commissioner Review. This process typically takes 4-8 weeks, so it's not a quick solution to your immediate problem. However, it might be worth pursuing alongside your other options. Regarding the Claimyr suggestion, while I can't personally vouch for third-party services, getting through to an actual ESD representative is critical right now. They can check your specific claim details and give you personalized guidance based on your exact situation. Finally, if you do end up applying for regular UI after TB, be aware that your weekly benefit amount might be different than what you're receiving now under TB.

I went through something similar with my medical assistant program last year. The 26-week TB limit is unfortunately very rigid, but here's what worked for me: 1. I immediately applied for regular UI the week my TB ended (like Emma mentioned) and got approved since I had enough work history 2. I then applied for Commissioner Approved Training (CAT) to waive job search requirements while finishing my last month of school 3. My school's financial aid office had an emergency fund that covered about $1,500 of unexpected expenses The key thing is timing - don't wait until the last minute to file your regular UI claim. Also document EVERYTHING about the program delays (emails, announcements, etc.) in case you need it for appeals or Commissioner Review. One more tip: when you do get through to ESD (whether through Claimyr or regular channels), ask them to calculate your potential regular UI benefit amount so you can plan your budget. It might be lower than your TB amount but at least you'll know what to expect. Good luck! You're so close to finishing - don't give up now!

Anyone else notice how the ESD website gives ZERO clear information about this specific situation?? It's like they deliberately make everything confusing so they can deny claims later! I spent HOURS searching for an official policy about pausing training and found NOTHING!

I went through something very similar last year with my training benefits! I had to pause for a quarter due to a family emergency and was terrified they'd cancel everything. Here's what worked for me: 1. I called ESD directly (took forever to get through) and spoke with a training specialist who walked me through the "training interruption" process 2. They had me submit a formal request through eServices explaining my situation and expected return date 3. I provided documentation from my school showing my planned course sequence 4. They put a note in my file that I was on an approved temporary interruption The key thing the specialist told me was that as long as you're still within your overall training timeframe (sounds like you have plenty of time left in your 2-year period) and you have valid reasons, they'd rather work with you than have you drop out completely. I'd definitely recommend calling rather than just sending a message - the phone agents seemed more knowledgeable about the training interruption process than whoever handles the eServices messages. Good luck with your mental health journey too - taking care of yourself is the most important thing!

Last thought - if you do well with Uber and start making significant money, just remember you might reach a point where it makes more sense to focus on that full-time rather than continuing unemployment. Good problem to have though!

Just wanted to add that you should also keep track of your vehicle expenses like gas, maintenance, and mileage when doing Uber. While you can't deduct these from your unemployment reporting (you still report gross earnings), you'll need them for tax purposes at the end of the year. I use a mileage tracking app that automatically logs my trips which makes tax season much easier. Good luck with the gig work!

Congrats on getting approved! The relief when that adjudication finally ends is incredible. Your back pay should definitely come through automatically - just keep an eye on your account over the next few days.

Awesome news that it got approved! I went through something similar last year - 7 weeks in adjudication and was panicking about money the whole time. The back pay does come automatically, usually within 3-5 business days like others mentioned. One thing I learned though is to screenshot your weekly claim summaries showing all those weeks you filed during adjudication, just in case there's ever a question later about what you're owed. The system usually works correctly but having that backup documentation gave me peace of mind. Hope you get your money soon!