I went through something similar last year when my employer was being difficult about my workers' comp claim and then suddenly laid me off. Here's what I learned: ESD will absolutely make a decision without employer input if they don't respond within their timeframe. In my case, my employer waited until day 9 to submit a response full of lies, but ESD still approved me because their story didn't make sense and contradicted the documentation I provided. Since you mentioned the medical accommodations angle, I'd recommend keeping all your accommodation request emails/letters and your doctor's paperwork handy. Even if you can't prove retaliation directly, having that timeline documented could be helpful if your employer tries to appeal later with false claims about your performance or conduct. The fact that you have a termination letter stating "restructuring" as the reason works in your favor - that's pretty cut and dried for ESD's purposes. Also, don't stress too much about the appeal window. While employers CAN appeal within 30 days, most don't bother unless it's a large claim or they're trying to avoid higher unemployment taxes. Small grudges usually aren't worth the hassle for them.

I had a very similar situation where my employer was being sketchy about responding to ESD. What really helped me was keeping a detailed timeline of everything that happened leading up to my termination. I made a simple document with dates, what happened, and any witnesses or documentation for each event. When ESD makes their determination without employer input (which they will if your employer doesn't respond), having that organized timeline ready can be super helpful if you need to provide additional information. Plus, if your employer does decide to appeal later, you'll already have everything documented and won't be scrambling to remember details from weeks or months ago. The medical accommodation timing you mentioned definitely sounds suspicious. Even if you can't prove direct retaliation, that pattern of requesting accommodations followed immediately by "restructuring" is something ESD investigators are trained to recognize. Keep those accommodation request documents safe - they could be crucial evidence if this gets complicated later. Hang in there! The majority of unemployment claims get approved, especially when the employer can't be bothered to respond properly.

UPDATE: I finally got through to ESD today! For anyone with similar issues - yes, they do offer payment plans. I had to talk to the collections department (not regular UI). They asked about my income and expenses and approved me for a $200/month plan over 24 months. They're sending me paperwork to sign. They said if I miss payments they can cancel the plan, so I need to be super careful about that. I'm also going to appeal since I still have a week left in my appeal window. Thanks everyone for your help!

That's such great news! I'm so glad you were able to get through and set up a payment plan. $200/month sounds much more manageable than the full $4,850 all at once. I'm in a similar situation with a $3,400 overpayment and have been dreading calling them, but your experience gives me hope. Did they ask for a lot of documentation about your financial situation, or was it pretty straightforward once you got the right department? Also wondering if you used that Collections Unit number someone mentioned earlier (888-444-8531) or a different one?

This is so frustrating but unfortunately typical for ESD! I've been dealing with similar login issues for the past few days. What's really annoying is that they never communicate these system problems to users - we're all just left guessing whether it's our fault or theirs. For what it's worth, I've had some luck using a VPN to connect through a different location. Sometimes their servers respond differently depending on your IP address or location. Also, if you're on mobile data, try switching to WiFi or vice versa. The fact that you can't even get through to phone support is unacceptable. They really need to invest in better infrastructure and customer service. I hope you get through soon - keep trying those early morning hours that others mentioned!

I'm dealing with the exact same issue! Been locked out since Wednesday and it's driving me crazy. I tried most of the suggestions here but what finally got me in was clearing ALL my browser data (not just cookies/cache) and then waiting until around 6am to try logging in. One thing I discovered is that if you're using any browser extensions like ad blockers or password managers, try disabling them completely before attempting to log in. Sometimes they interfere with ESD's authentication process. Also, for anyone still struggling - I found that the mobile app version sometimes works when the website doesn't. It's called "ESD Services" in the app store. Not sure why there's a difference but worth a shot if you're desperate! Really appreciate everyone sharing their workarounds here. ESD needs to get their act together - we shouldn't have to become IT experts just to file our weekly claims!

UPDATE: Everything worked exactly as you all said! I waited until my filing day (Wednesday) and when I logged in, I was able to file for last week with no issues. The system recognized that I had reopened my claim and let me complete everything normally. Thank you all so much for the help and reassurance! One less thing to stress about this week.

Glad everything worked out for you! This is such a common source of confusion - the ESD system really should display a clear message after reopening that explains you need to wait for your regular filing day. Your experience will definitely help others who find themselves in the same situation. Thanks for updating us with the resolution!

One thing to keep in mind is that if you do owe the money legitimately, paying it back voluntarily looks better than having to be forced through garnishment. Might help if you need unemployment again in the future.

Daniel, I went through something similar last year with a $3,400 overpayment. The most important thing is to act fast - don't let fear paralyze you into inaction. I'd strongly recommend first checking if you have grounds for an appeal since you still have about a week left based on your timeline. Even if the appeal doesn't succeed, it buys you time and stops collection actions while it's pending. If you don't have grounds to appeal, definitely try that Claimyr service others mentioned to get through to set up a payment plan. I ended up with a $65/month plan that I could actually afford. The key is being proactive - they're much more willing to work with you if you contact them rather than them having to chase you down.