ESD adjudicator deadline today at 4PM - can't reach them about disability determination

call the main ESD number right now! tell them it's urgent and you need to reach an adjudicator before the 4pm deadline. sometimes they can transfer you directly. don't wait for her to call back.

Thanks! I'm on hold with the main line now but it says the wait time is 65+ minutes. I don't think I'll make it before the deadline 😩

Ugh this happens ALL THE TIME with ESD! They leave you one message with an impossible deadline then never answer when you call back. It's like they WANT us to fail. I had something similar happen last month - adjudicator called about my work separation issue, left message with 24hr deadline, then completely disappeared. I ended up getting denied because I \

That's exactly what I'm worried about! Did you appeal the decision? I can't afford to have my benefits denied right now.

Try emailing them too! The adjudicator's email should be firstname.lastname@esd.wa.gov if you know their name from the voicemail. Sometimes they respond faster to emails than calls, especially when they're bouncing between interviews all day.

Great idea! Her name was Julie Something (couldn't catch the last name clearly in the voicemail). I'll try emailing right now.

Take a deep breath - it's going to be okay. This happens frequently with adjudicators because they're handling hundreds of cases. Here's what you need to know:\n\n1. Document all your call attempts with timestamps\n2. Send an email to the adjudicator AND to the general ESD email\n3. The 4pm deadline is their internal processing cutoff, but they're required to make reasonable attempts to contact you\n4. Even if you miss connecting today, you can appeal any negative decision by showing you made multiple good-faith attempts to respond\n\nThe most important thing is documenting everything. Screenshot your call log showing all your attempts before 4pm. This will protect you if you need to appeal.

Thank you so much for the detailed advice. I've been taking screenshots of my call log and I sent an email to what I think is her address. I'll also email the general ESD address right now. This makes me feel a bit better.

Have you tried using Claimyr? It helped me get through to an ESD agent when I was in a similar situation with an adjudication deadline. They can call ESD for you and then connect you when they reach an agent. Saved me hours of frustration. Check out their video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 and their website claimyr.com - it might help you beat the 4pm deadline!

I was just about to suggest this too! Claimyr got me through to an agent in 20 minutes last week when the regular line had a 2+ hour wait.

Never heard of this before! Checking it out now, thanks!

This happened to me last year! The adjudicator was calling about my disability accommodation documentation. I missed the deadline but sent an email with all my documentation attached and explained I tried calling multiple times. They ended up accepting it the next day and my claim was approved. Just make sure you document EVERYTHING and follow up first thing tomorrow morning if you don't reach them today.

That's reassuring to hear! I'm glad it worked out for you. I'll definitely follow up first thing tomorrow if I don't reach anyone today.

I would suggest you also prepare for the conversation about your disability. From an adjudicator's perspective, they're likely trying to determine if your disability affects your ability and availability for work, which is a core requirement for unemployment eligibility. \n\nHave ready:\n1. Documentation of your disability\n2. Information about work restrictions or accommodations you need\n3. Explanation of how you're still able and available for suitable work despite limitations\n\nThis preparation will help when you do connect with them, whether today or through the appeal process if necessary. The substance of your response is just as important as making the deadline.

Thank you for this advice! I have my doctor's notes and accommodation paperwork from my previous job ready. My disability doesn't prevent me from working entirely - I just need certain accommodations. I'll make sure to emphasize that I'm still able and available for work.

any update??? did u get thru to someone???

UPDATE: I finally got through!!! Used that Claimyr service someone recommended and got connected to an ESD agent who transferred me directly to my adjudicator at 3:45pm! We had a quick 10-minute conversation about my disability accommodations, and she said everything looks good and she'll be approving my claim! Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help!