Can I get ESD backpay for delaying my unemployment application by several months?

Unfortunately, the answer is probably no. ESD is VERY strict about this. I went through something similar last year—waited about 6 weeks to file because I thought I had a job lined up that fell through. When I finally applied, they only paid from the week I actually filed, not when I became unemployed. The agent told me they almost never backdate claims unless it was specifically THEIR error that prevented you from filing.

Actually, there are some limited circumstances where ESD might approve retroactive benefits, but they're pretty rare. You would need to prove you had "good cause" for not filing earlier. Things that might qualify: - You were physically or mentally unable to file (hospitalization, severe illness) - You received incorrect information from an ESD representative - Natural disaster prevented filing - You were approved for backdating under certain special programs If any of these apply to you, you'd need to call ESD and specifically request backdating with a detailed explanation. But be prepared for them to say no - they're really strict about this rule.

i waited like a month to file my claim last yr and they didnt give me nothing for those weeks. said something bout how ur claim starts the week u file not when u lost ur job. its dumb imo

After trying for WEEKS to reach ESD by phone about my retroactive benefits question (different situation but similar issue), I finally used this service called Claimyr that got me through to an actual agent in about 20 minutes. Cost money but saved me days of frustration. The agent confirmed that backdating is possible but only in specific circumstances like others mentioned. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 or go to claimyr.com Even if they can't backdate your claim, at least you'll get a definitive answer from an actual ESD rep rather than wondering.

This exact thing happened to me in 2023! I waited 3 months to file because I was dealing with a death in the family and just couldn't handle the paperwork. When I finally applied, I actually did get 2 weeks of backdated benefits, but only because I had documentation showing I was the primary caregiver for my terminally ill parent during that time. They initially denied my request, but I submitted a formal appeal with medical documentation and they partially approved it. So it is POSSIBLE but you need extremely compelling circumstances and documentation.

The official ESD rule is that benefits begin the week you file your application, not when you became unemployed. It's right on their website. It's one of those rules that seems unfair but they're really strict about it. My advice - file your weekly claims consistently from now on and focus on the benefits you CAN get rather than the ones you missed. Also make sure you're doing the required 3 job search activities each week and documenting them properly. Don't risk your current benefits by missing any requirements!

This is why the unemployment system is so broken! They make the rules complicated on purpose so people miss out on benefits they deserve. I bet if you contacted your state representative and made a big enough fuss, you could get someone to override this stupid rule. The money is there - they just don't want to give it to you!

Not directly related but make sure youre setting aside money for taxes next year!! I didnt realize unemployment benefits were taxable my first time and got hit with a huge bill. Just a heads up since you mentioned youre new to this.

So what ended up happening? Were you able to get any backdated benefits or did they deny you?

Sorry to hear they denied your request, but honestly that's what I expected based on my own experience. The silver lining is that you're getting benefits now and you've learned how strict they are about following the rules. Make sure you're documenting everything carefully - I keep a spreadsheet with all my job applications, contact info, dates, etc. It's saved me a couple times when they've asked for proof of my job search activities. Also don't forget to report any part-time work or odd jobs you might pick up while collecting - they're really picky about that stuff too. Good luck with your job search!