Does owing unemployment affect credit score - Washington ESD overpayment concern

That's a relief to hear. How long do I typically have before they escalate it?

Usually 30-90 days depending on the situation. Check your notice for specific deadlines and don't miss the appeal window if you think it's wrong.

Same here! The phone system is a nightmare. I probably called 50 times before getting through to an actual person.

You might want to try Claimyr - it's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. I used it when I had adjudication issues and it saved me so much time.

Good to know. I definitely don't want to ignore it, just trying to understand my options.

Yeah don't ignore it whatever you do. My cousin did that with a different state and it eventually went to collections and wrecked her credit for years.

What other collection methods do they typically use before credit reporting?

Usually wage garnishment, tax refund offset, and asset seizure come before credit reporting. They want their money back through direct means first.

Wage garnishment sounds scary but at least it's predictable if you're working. Better than having your credit trashed.

How do I set up a payment plan with them? Do I need to call or can I do it online?

You'll need to call them. The payment plan options aren't available through the online portal. Be prepared for long hold times though.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr. The regular phone system is broken but they have a way to get you connected to actual agents. Worth checking out if you're stuck.

I've heard mixed things about third-party services. Do they actually work?

I was skeptical too but tried Claimyr last month when I couldn't get through about my adjudication. Got connected to an agent in like 20 minutes. Sometimes you just need to pay for convenience.

Is there a difference in how it affects your score between those two scenarios?

Collection accounts typically have a bigger negative impact than government liens, but both can hurt your score. The key is preventing it from getting to either point.

How did it affect your mortgage application?

Had to pay it off completely plus penalties before they would approve the loan. Cost me way more than the original amount.

That's rough. At least you got it sorted out eventually though.

What kind of documentation did you need for the appeal?

Pay stubs, bank statements, and copies of all my weekly claim certifications. The more documentation you have, the better.

Good advice. I should probably gather all my records just in case I need to appeal too.

Thanks, that's exactly what I needed to know. Sounds like I should focus on getting through to them to discuss options rather than panicking about my credit score.

Exactly. Handle it proactively and your credit should be fine. It's only when people ignore these things that they become credit problems.

Good point. I'll make sure to set up automatic payments if I go that route.

Smart thinking. Government agencies are usually pretty reasonable if you communicate and stick to agreements.

That's reassuring. How long did it take to get the payment plan set up?

Once I actually got through to someone, maybe 15 minutes. The hard part was getting connected to an agent in the first place.

The connection issue is real. I've been trying to reach them about my own situation for weeks now.

What's the typical timeline from initial notice to potential credit reporting?

Usually 6-12 months if you're completely non-responsive, but it can vary by state and agency. The key is engaging with them early.

This is exactly why services like Claimyr exist. Sometimes you just need to pay for the convenience of actually talking to someone.

I've been resistant to paying for something that should be free, but I'm starting to think it might be worth it.

I felt the same way but when you're dealing with thousands of dollars and potential credit damage, paying a service fee seems reasonable.

That's good to know. I was worried this could turn into something more serious.

Nope, it's just a matter of paying back money you weren't supposed to receive. Stressful but not criminal.

Great advice. I'll start keeping a file of everything related to this overpayment.

Yeah, documentation is key with any government issue. Always cover yourself with paperwork.

That's great news! Which callback service did you use?

Used Claimyr - worked exactly like they said it would. Got connected to an agent who was actually helpful and understanding about my situation.

Good to hear a success story. I might give them a try too since I'm still stuck trying to reach someone about my own overpayment.