ESD overpayment waivers still stuck in processing - anyone approved yet?

I'm in the same boat. Applied in July and nothing yet. Called twice in November and got told both times they're 'still processing' and 'working through them in order.' They wouldn't even tell me where mine was in the queue. The stress is killing me - they're threatening to garnish my wages for $6,800 that was THEIR mistake in the first place! Beyond frustrated.

It's so frustrating! Did they at least put your account on hold while they're processing? I got them to suspend collection actions but I'm worried that'll expire before they ever look at my application.

I actually got my waiver approved last week after waiting since September. The process is incredibly slow, but they are working through them. When I called in October, they told me they were still reviewing July applications. The approval came through suddenly with no warning - just got a letter in the mail saying my $4,275 overpayment had been fully waived.\n\nMake sure you've submitted ALL documentation they need showing financial hardship. In my case, I uploaded bank statements, bills, and a detailed letter explaining why repayment would cause significant hardship. The more documentation, the better your chances.

Thats really good to know thx! I forgot to add my utility bills to mine wonder if thats why its taking so long? Did u call them a bunch of times or just wait?

The ESD overpayment system is a DISASTER. These people have NO IDEA what they're doing half the time. They overpay because THEIR SYSTEM made a mistake, then expect us to pay it back or jump through 50 hoops to maybe, possibly get a waiver after waiting HALF A YEAR!!! I've been waiting since JUNE and they keep giving me the same garbage about \

I hear you! The whole thing feels designed to wear us down until we just give up and pay. Have you tried contacting your state representative? I'm thinking about doing that next week if I don't hear anything.

My sister got her overpayment waived but it took almost 7 months. ESD is super backed up with these. She had to keep calling them every few weeks to check on status.

7 months?! That's insane. Did she have to do anything special to finally get it approved? I'm wondering if I should be more proactive or just keep waiting.

I tried calling about my overpayment waiver for weeks and could never get through - always busy signals or getting disconnected after waiting on hold forever. Finally used Claimyr to connect with an agent (claimyr.com) and got through in about 20 mins. The agent was actually really helpful and told me exactly where my application was in the process and what to expect next. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3\n\nAt least I know my application wasn't lost and is actually in line for review. Supposedly they're working through August applications now, so you might hear something soon.

Thanks for the tip! I might try that service if I don't hear anything in the next couple weeks. I'm just worried about spending more money when I'm already struggling financially, but at least getting actual information would help with the anxiety.

To clarify some misinformation I'm seeing here: ESD is legally required to process waiver applications according to WAC 192-220-030. While there's no specific timeline requirement in the statute, they are obligated to review all applications. The delays are primarily due to staffing shortages and the high volume of applications following recent eligibility reviews.\n\nSome helpful information for those waiting:\n\n1. Make sure your application is complete with all financial documentation\n2. If you haven't received a confirmation that your application was received, follow up\n3. Request that collections be paused while your waiver is under review (they should do this automatically, but sometimes it requires a reminder)\n4. Document all communications with ESD (dates, names, what was discussed)\n5. If waiting more than 6 months, consider contacting the Office of the Unemployment Insurance Ombuds at 1-844-395-6697\n\nThe current average processing time appears to be 5-6 months based on recent reports.

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Just a quick update - I checked the ESD website today and noticed they've added a new section about overpayment waivers. It says they're currently processing applications from August-September 2025, so that aligns with what people are reporting here. It also says they've approved about 68% of applications reviewed so far, which is higher than I expected.\n\nHang in there - it sounds like they're getting to yours soon, OP!

Thank you so much for checking! That actually makes me feel a lot better knowing they're getting to August applications now. Really appreciate the update!

my freind got hers approved after 5 months but she kept calling them like twice a week and sending messages through the eservices portal. squeaky wheel gets the greese i guess lol

I've sent so many messages through eServices and half the time they don't even reply. Maybe I need to be even more persistent...

Has anybody been denied for a waiver? I'm curious what reasons they give.

From what I understand, the main reasons for denial are: 1) Not demonstrating financial hardship, 2) The overpayment was due to fraud or misrepresentation, or 3) Incomplete documentation. If you meet the hardship criteria and the overpayment wasn't your fault, you should have a good chance at approval.