Update: It's been 3 days now and the status FINALLY changed from "IVR Processing" to "Pending" with a message saying they need to verify my identity. At least it's movement! Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions - especially about not filing a duplicate claim. I'll follow the identity verification instructions and hopefully things will progress from here.

For anyone else experiencing this issue who finds this thread later: The ESD IVR system was originally designed to handle about 2,000 calls per day, but since the 2024 aerospace industry layoffs, it's been processing upwards of 8,500 calls daily. This is why disconnections happen frequently during peak hours (10am-2pm). Best practices: 1. Call early (7:30-9am) or late (3:30-4:45pm) when volumes are lower 2. Have all your information prepared before calling 3. Use a landline if possible as cell connections can contribute to disconnections 4. If disconnected, wait 24 hours before calling again as your partial information may still be processing 5. Check your online account daily for status changes The system issues are scheduled for a major update in October 2025, which should improve these problems significantly.

anyone know if theyre still requiring the 3 job search activities per week? i heard they might have changed it but the ESD website is so confusing

Just be aware that sometimes when you reopen a claim they automatically put you back in adjudication even if nothing's wrong. Happened to me TWICE. First time took 4 weeks to resolve, second time took 6 WEEKS!!! The ESD system seems designed to make people give up.

One more thing to consider: Even if you win your appeal (which seems likely), there might be a delay before payments start. The employer has the right to petition for review of the ALJ's decision within 30 days. Some employers automatically file these petitions even when they didn't show up for the hearing. If they do file, it could add another 2-3 months before you receive benefits. However, if your financial situation is critical, once you receive a favorable decision, you can call ESD and request a hardship payment while waiting for the petition period to expire.

does anybody know how long it takes to get the decision after the hearing? mine took 4 weeks and i was going crazy checking the mail everyday!!

UGH the verification process is THE WORST! My claim was denied twice because I kept sending "insufficient" documentation even though I sent them my termination email. Turned out they needed to see the OFFICIAL HEADER of the company email with the date clearly visible. Make sure whatever you send has all that info visible!!! SO many stupid technical details they never tell you about upfront.

Just to follow up on the earlier comments - based on what you've said, I would recommend submitting: 1. Your COBRA notice (this is excellent verification) 2. The emails about returning equipment 3. A personal statement explaining the layoff situation Upload all three together and title the documents clearly like "Separation Verification - COBRA Notice" etc. If you haven't already, make sure you're regularly completing your weekly claims while waiting for the verification to be processed.

Have any of you tried contacting your state representatives? My cousin was stuck in adjudication for 7 weeks, then emailed her state rep and magically got approved 3 days later. Worth a shot if you're desperate.

UPDATE on wait times: I just attended a WorkSource webinar yesterday where an ESD representative said they're now prioritizing claims that have been in adjudication for more than 5 weeks. They've also added 15 new adjudicators this month who are completing training. The rep said we should start seeing processing times improve by late May, possibly getting back to 3-4 week timeframes by June. Just wanted to share this bit of hope!

UPDATE: I got through to ESD this morning! Used that Claimyr service someone mentioned here and it actually worked - got a call back with an agent in about 45 minutes. The adjudication is because they need to verify my identity (apparently routine for some new claims). The agent said I'll likely continue receiving payments during this process since it's just verification, not an eligibility issue. Such a relief! She said to just keep filing weekly claims as normal. Thank you everyone for your advice and support!

That's great news! Identity verification adjudications usually resolve fairly quickly. Just make sure you upload any documents they requested as soon as possible. Glad you got some peace of mind!

anybody know if u can do these hearings on phone instead of zoom? i dont have good internet at my place and have same issue with employer trying to postpone

Update: I called the judge's clerk this morning and explained my financial situation. I mentioned the specific hardships I'm facing (potential car repossession and already being behind on utilities). The clerk was actually pretty understanding and said the judge would take my objection into consideration. They said they'd let me know by tomorrow whether we're proceeding with the original date or if it will be rescheduled. I'll update again when I hear back. Thanks everyone for the helpful advice!

Thank you! I've uploaded the documents they requested and sent a message. Going to try calling at 8am sharp tomorrow, and if that doesn't work, I'll try Claimyr. Really appreciate everyone's help!

let us know if u get it fixed!!

UPDATE: I got through to ESD today using that Claimyr service someone mentioned above. It actually worked! My adjudication was because I had a small 401k withdrawal they thought was severance pay (it wasn't). The agent fixed it on the spot and said my payments should start processing within 48 hours. HUGE relief after weeks of stress!

Nope, once I got through I only waited about 5 minutes to talk to an actual agent. Way better than the busy signals I kept getting before. Just make sure you have all your claim info ready when they connect you.

did other ppl get laid off at the same time as ur dad? that would help prove it was restructuring and not something about just him

To summarize what everyone's said: 1. Your dad should qualify since this was a position elimination/restructuring 2. The 'other' code with rehire eligibility supports that this wasn't misconduct 3. He should continue filing weekly claims while waiting for a decision 4. If it goes to adjudication, he should gather documentation about the restructuring 5. Multiple people being laid off simultaneously strengthens his case One last tip: make sure he's meeting the job search requirements (3 job search activities weekly) and documenting them properly. ESD might audit his job search log later.