ESD standby extension needed - approved until Jan 11 but work doesn't resume until Feb 10

Yes, you can request an extension of your standby status through your eServices account. Log in, go to your current claim, and look for the option to request a standby extension. You'll need to provide documentation from your employer stating the new return-to-work date (February 10). Do this BEFORE your current standby period expires on January 11. If approved, you can continue receiving benefits without job search requirements until your new end date.

i had this exact same thing happen last winter!!! if ur standby ends and u dont have an extension yet, u HAVE to do job searches while waiting for approval or theyll disqualify u. learned this the hard way lol

Here's what you need to do step by step: 1. Get a letter from your employer stating the new return to work date (Feb 10) 2. Submit your standby extension request through eServices at least 5 business days before Jan 11 3. Continue filing your weekly claims without interruption 4. If you don't receive approval by Jan 11, begin conducting and documenting your 3 job search activities per week 5. Once approved, you can return to answering "yes" to the standby question on weekly claims Standby extensions are typically granted when the delay is less than 4 weeks from the original return date, which yours is. Just make sure you have proper documentation.

The ESD system is so frustrating with these timing issues. I had a similar situation last year and even though my extension was EVENTUALLY approved, there was a 3-week gap where I had to do job searches and my payments were delayed while they "reviewed" my claim. Make sure you document EVERYTHING from your employer about the new date. The more proof you have, the better!

Since you're dealing with standby extension issues, I highly recommend using Claimyr if you need to actually talk to someone at ESD. I tried for 2 weeks to get through on my own with no luck. Claimyr connected me with an ESD agent in about 25 minutes instead of waiting hours or getting hung up on. They have a good video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. Definitely worth it for situations like this where you need to make sure everything is correct with your standby status.

It's legitimate - they basically navigate the phone system for you and call you back when they have an agent on the line. As for your original question, one more important thing: make sure your employer actually reports the new date to ESD as well. Sometimes extensions get denied because the employer and claimant information don't match up.

i think the job search requirements changed too??? isnt it 4 now not 3?? someone told me it changed

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! I talked to my supervisor and she's emailing me a letter today confirming the February 10 return date. I'm going to submit the extension request through eServices tomorrow and also make sure my employer reports the new date to ESD directly. If I don't hear back before January 11, I'll start doing the 3 job search activities just to be safe. Really appreciate all the guidance!