Based on your timeline, I'd suggest waiting until December 19th (4 weeks from filing) before escalating. However, there are two productive steps you can take now:\n\n1. Check if you have access to your former employer's response in your ESD account. Sometimes the system shows what information they've provided.\n\n2. Prepare documentation proving you never received formal warnings or performance improvement plans. This will be valuable if there's a discrepancy between your account and your employer's.\n\nIf you haven't heard anything by December 19th, that's when I'd recommend calling to request an update and possibly escalation. When you call, specifically ask if they're still waiting for employer information or if something else is causing the delay.

This is really helpful advice. I'll check my ESD account more thoroughly to see if I can find my employer's response. I don't think they've submitted anything yet or the status would have changed, right? \n\nI've already gathered my emails showing positive feedback from my boss just two weeks before firing me, so hopefully that helps my case.

My roomate had to call ESD about changing her career path like 7 times before she got someone who actually knew what they were talking about!! First person told her to just update her work search preferences but that was TOTALLY wrong advice.

Final piece of advice: When your daughter applies for Training Benefits, she should request the maximum training time available (26 weeks in 2025). Nursing programs often take longer than this, but she can potentially qualify for extensions if she maintains satisfactory progress. Also, make sure she understands that during approved training, she's exempt from job search requirements, but must submit school progress reports every 4 weeks instead.

i had a hearing too few months back it was cause i got sick not related to kids though but anyways mine took like 35 minutes or so they just asked basic stuff no need to be nervous they just wana hear your side of things my employer didnt even call in

Oh, one more thing I forgot to mention - make sure to dial in about 5-10 minutes early to the hearing. There's usually a virtual waiting room, and being punctual makes a good impression. Also, have a quiet place for the call if possible, and take notes during the hearing. If the judge uses any terminology you don't understand, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. Good luck with your hearing!

Glad you got through! One other thing to note - make sure you're still meeting the job search requirements while this is being resolved. The current requirement is 3 job search activities per week that you must document in your weekly claim. Missing these can result in disqualification regardless of what's happening with your wage dispute. Good luck!

Definitely doing that! I've been tracking everything in a spreadsheet - applications, interviews, resume submissions, WorkSource workshops, etc. Not taking any chances with my benefits, especially while I'm trying to get them increased.

heyy any update?? did u get ur money yet??

Yes! Finally got paid yesterday - took exactly 15 days from the appeal decision. Everything came in one lump sum payment, and my account status finally updated to

THIS is why the system is BROKEN! They show \

Identity verification holds are actually shown in your eServices account under

OP, did you get that payment plan form submitted yet? One thing to remember is to include ALL your expenses with documentation. Rent/mortgage, utilities, medical costs, car payment, insurance, groceries, childcare, etc. The more thoroughly you document your financial situation, the more likely they'll approve your request quickly. Also, you mentioned this was from an ESD miscalculation originally? Have you previously requested a waiver of the overpayment? If ESD made the error and it wasn't due to any false information from you, you might qualify for an overpayment waiver, especially if collection causes financial hardship.

Another tip for your new payment plan request: mention that you've been consistently making payments for 2 years and this was a one-time issue during the holidays. ESD does sometimes factor in good payment history. Also, while waiting for the new plan to be processed, you might qualify for emergency assistance through DSHS or local community action agencies if the reduced benefits are causing severe hardship. Many counties have rental assistance and utility payment help programs that can bridge the gap while you get this resolved with ESD.

You're absolutely right - that was my typo. The benefit year runs for 12 months from the date of filing, so in this case until August 2026. Thanks for the correction!

You're right, I made another error. The benefit year would run until August 2026, exactly 12 months from the filing date of August 3, 2025. Thank you for the correction.

Just following up - did your claim status ever update? I'm curious because I'm having a similar issue now.

For future reference, you can also check the "Payment History" tab on eServices. Sometimes that will show your claim as processed even when the main dashboard still shows you need to file. It's a good way to double-check without having to call. The ESD systems don't always communicate well with each other, so checking multiple places can give you peace of mind.

Wait I'm confused... can someone explain adjudication to me? Is that the same as an appeal? I got denied benefits and they told me to file an appeal but I'm not sure if that's the same thing you're talking about?

My claim was in adjudcation for 7 whole weeks last year, ESD is sooooo slow... I think ur smart to stop claiming until they decide. Also make sure u keep doing ur job search activities every week even if u dont claim!! I messed that up n had to start my whole claim over again it was a NIGHTMARE