ESD claim backdating problem - how to change wait week after filing?

Ugh, the ESD system makes this SO confusing! I had almost the exact same issue in February. You need to call them directly to get the claim backdated - there's no way to fix it online once you've submitted. Good luck actually reaching anyone though... I spent DAYS trying to get through before I finally talked to someone who could help.

yea this happens alot u gotta call them but the phone lines r impossible. took me like 28 calls before i got thru 2 someone. try early morning like 8am sharp

I work as a career counselor and help people with these issues frequently. Here's what you need to do: 1. You need to specifically request "backdate adjustment" when you speak with an agent. 2. You'll need to explain the reason for not filing immediately (being unaware of the process is actually a valid reason) 3. Have documentation of your last day worked ready (final paystub, layoff notice, etc.) Be aware that ESD may or may not approve the backdate request - it's at their discretion, but they're usually reasonable if you have a legitimate explanation. The key is actually reaching someone, which is the hardest part of the process.

When this happened to me I used Claimyr to get through to ESD quickly. It's a service that basically waits on hold for you and then calls you when an actual agent is on the line. Saved me hours of frustration. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 It was totally worth it because I got my backdating issue resolved in one day instead of spending weeks trying to get through.

I'm gonna go against what everyone else is saying here. Don't waste your time trying to backdate. The first week is a waiting week anyway where you don't get paid. So even if you backdate your claim to May 5th, that becomes your waiting week and you still only get paid starting May 12th. The system is designed to always make you wait one week before benefits kick in. The only exception is if the governor has waived the waiting week, which they did during COVID but I'm pretty sure they're back to enforcing it now in 2025.

I had same thing happen!!! My claim started April 3 but I needed March 27. I called for TWO WEEKS straight and couldn't get anyone. I finally sent a message through the eServices portal (go to your claim dashboard, click on "send a message" at the bottom). Include all details - your last day worked, why you need backdating, etc. They actually responded in about 4 days and fixed it for me without having to call! Try that if you can't get through on the phone.

everyone keeps saying to call but honestly their number is USELESS. i got disconnected 9 times yesterday trying to fix my claim issue. the whole system is designed to prevent us from getting the money we deserve. they don't want to help us!!!

UPDATE FOR EVERYONE: As of March 2025, there's a new "Request Claim Adjustment" form in the eServices portal under the "More Services" tab. You can use this to request backdating without calling. It wasn't publicized much but it's part of their system modernization. The form asks for your last day worked and reason for delayed filing. Still takes about 5-7 business days to process, but much easier than calling repeatedly.

UPDATE: My backdating was approved! Used that new form in the eServices portal that @profile2 mentioned, and got an approval email after 6 days. My waiting week is now correctly showing as May 5-11, and I'm getting paid for May 12-18. For anyone else with this issue, definitely check for that form under More Services before spending hours on the phone!