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Hiroshi Nakamura

ESD application mistake - wrong job starting date - how to correct?

I just reapplied for unemployment benefits since my benefit year expired last week. In my rush to complete the application, I accidentally put 2019 instead of 2020 as my starting date for my most recent job. Now I'm freaking out that my claim will be denied or delayed because of this mistake. Is there a way to fix this without starting a whole new application? Has anyone else made errors on their application and been able to correct them after submitting? I really can't afford any delays in my benefits right now.

dont worry too much they'll probably just call u to verify ur work history anyway. i put the wrong end date on mine and they just fixed it during the fact-finding interview

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Thanks, that's a relief to hear. Did you have to wait long for them to call you? I'm worried about my payments being delayed.

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Malik Jenkins

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You should call ESD directly to correct this information. An incorrect employment date could affect your base year calculation and potentially the amount of benefits you're eligible for. When you call, explain that you made an error on your application and need to correct your employment dates. They can update this in their system without you having to file a new application. Be prepared with your correct employment information when you call.

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I've been trying to call for 2 days but keep getting the message about high call volume and to try again later. Is there maybe an online form where I can submit corrections?

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THIS HAPPENS TO EVERYONE!! ESD's system is SO confusing! When I reapplied I messed up THREE different things and had to wait SIX WEEKS to get it resolved!!! They should make the stupid form more clear!!

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Eduardo Silva

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The form is actually quite straightforward if you read each question carefully. I do agree that the consequences of small errors shouldn't be so severe though. The system could definitely use some improvements in the error correction process.

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Leila Haddad

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I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to ESD when I had a similar issue with incorrect info on my application. They got me connected to an agent within about 30 minutes when I had been trying for days on my own. You can see how it works in their video demo: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The agent was able to update my information on the spot and it prevented weeks of delay on my claim. Since you're dealing with employment dates that affect your benefit calculation, speaking directly with an agent is definitely the way to go.

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Emma Johnson

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is that service legit? seems weird to pay someone just to call for you

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Leila Haddad

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It's definitely legit - they don't call for you, they just get you in the ESD phone queue. You still talk to ESD directly yourself. It saved me a ton of stress and time.

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Ravi Patel

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You can also try sending a message through your eServices account. Go to your dashboard, click on "Send a message" and select "I made a mistake on my application" as the category. Explain exactly what information was incorrect and provide the correct dates. I did this for a different issue and they responded within 3 business days. This method doesn't always work for everyone, but it's worth trying while you're also attempting to reach them by phone.

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Thank you! I just sent a message through eServices explaining the error. Hopefully they'll see it soon. I'll keep trying to call too.

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Emma Johnson

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maybe check if theres an option to upload documents? u could send paystubs or w2 showing correct dates

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Eduardo Silva

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To add to what others have said, if you receive any communications from ESD about this discrepancy, be sure to respond immediately. ESD often sends fact-finding questionnaires when they identify inconsistencies in your application. If you receive one, complete it thoroughly with the correct information. If your claim goes into adjudication because of this error, you can also call the Office of Special Investigations at 800-246-9763 to explain the situation. They sometimes can help expedite corrections to honest mistakes. And most importantly - continue filing your weekly claims even while this is being resolved! Many people stop filing while waiting for issues to be resolved, but you should keep filing each week to receive backdated payments once the issue is fixed.

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I didn't know about continuing to file weekly claims during this time - that's really helpful information. Thank you! I'll definitely keep filing.

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Ravi Patel

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Just wanted to check in - were you able to get this resolved? Did you end up getting through to ESD?

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Yes! I finally got through to ESD yesterday. The agent was able to update my employment dates right away. She said it might delay my first payment by a few days but not by much. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!

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That's great news! I'm glad you were able to get it resolved quickly once you reached an agent. It's reassuring to hear that a simple date error like this can be fixed without major delays. This thread will be really helpful for others who make similar mistakes on their applications. Thanks for updating us on the outcome!

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Malia Ponder

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So glad to hear it worked out for you! I made a similar mistake when I first applied - put down the wrong employer name and was panicking for days. It's such a relief when you finally get through to someone who can actually help. Your experience gives me hope that these honest mistakes aren't as catastrophic as they seem at first. Thanks for sharing the update!

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