Denied benefits - need employer's separation info from ESD for appeal

You need to submit a public records request to get that information. Go to the ESD website and search for 'public records request' - there's a specific form for it. Be very specific that you want all separation information and fact-finding documents related to your claim. As for appeals, in my experience, they almost always schedule a hearing even with documentation. The judge wants to hear both sides directly. Start preparing now - write down exact dates of incidents, gather any supporting emails or messages, and review the ESD handbook on appeals (it's on their website). Don't worry too much about the big company. The Administrative Law Judges are generally fair and focused on facts, not influenced by company size. Just be organized and stick to relevant points during your hearing.

omg I went through this EXACT thing with them last year!! that company is notorious for fighting unemployment claims even when they have no case. they told ESD i was fired for theft when actually i just gave my roommate a free refill which was 100% allowed by policy. such BS. anyway ya the hearing is pretty much guaranteed. they sent me a notice like 3 weeks after i appealed with the hearing date. make sure u submit ALL ur evidence before the hearing deadline they give u!!

I went through the appeal process last year, and here's what you need to know: 1. File your appeal ASAP - don't wait. You have 30 days from the date of the denial letter. 2. In your appeal statement, clearly state that you disagree with your employer's characterization of the separation and explain why their account is factually incorrect. Be specific about dates and policies. 3. Yes, you'll almost certainly get a hearing scheduled. They rarely reverse decisions based solely on the appeal paperwork. 4. The hearing is typically scheduled 4-6 weeks after you file the appeal. 5. To get your employer's statements, submit a public records request to ESD immediately. However, don't wait for those records to file your appeal. 6. During the hearing, you'll have the chance to question your employer's representative about their statements. The judge will also ask questions to both parties. 7. Stick to facts and stay calm. Emotional arguments don't work well in these hearings. Good luck!

Have you tried using Claimyr to get through to an ESD agent? I was in the same boat last month - couldn't get through no matter how many times I called. Someone here recommended Claimyr (claimyr.com), and they got me through to an ESD agent in about 20 minutes. You can see how it works in their video: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The agent I spoke with was able to give me some basic info about what my employer said. It wasn't super detailed, but it helped me understand what I was dealing with for my appeal. Definitely worth it when you're desperately trying to reach someone at ESD.

Listen, DOCUMENT EVERYTHING from now on!! These big corporations have departments dedicated to fighting unemployment claims. It's all about saving money for them. I've been through TWO appeals against my former employer (not the coffee place, but a big retail chain). First hearing I lost because I wasn't prepared enough. Second one I WON because I came with a stack of evidence. Bring printed copies of EVERYTHING to your hearing - attendance records, doctor's notes, employee handbook policies about sick time, witness statements if possible, EVERYTHING!!! The judge can only rule based on what's presented at the hearing. And yes, you'll definitely get a hearing. I've never heard of anyone getting a reversal without a hearing. The system is designed for both sides to present their case directly to the judge.

Public records request is definitely the way to go! But just know that it can take 2-3 weeks to get those records back from ESD. Their records department is really backed up right now. One thing to know about the hearing - they're done by phone now (post-COVID they never went back to in-person). Make sure you have good phone reception wherever you plan to take the call. My hearing got messed up because I kept cutting out and the judge got annoyed. Also, big companies usually send an HR person plus maybe your direct manager. They'll have their story straight, so be ready for that. Don't let them talk over you - the judge will give each person time to speak.

wat do u do if u miss the appeal deadline? i got denied 2 months ago but didnt appeal cause i didnt know how. can i still do it now??

One more important thing - when you do get your hearing scheduled, make sure to submit all your evidence before the deadline they give you (usually 1 week before the hearing). If you try to introduce new evidence during the hearing that you didn't submit ahead of time, the judge might not accept it. Also, prepare a short opening statement (2-3 minutes) that summarizes your case clearly. Practice it so you don't ramble - hearings usually only last 30-45 minutes total, and you want to make sure you cover all your important points. Finally, in my experience, the judge will usually mail the decision within 1-2 weeks after the hearing. If it's taking longer, you can call OAH (Office of Administrative Hearings) to check on the status.