How long does Washington ESD unemployment appeal take - been waiting 2 months

That's longer than I hoped but at least gives me a timeframe. Did you win your appeal?

Yes I did, but it took about 10 weeks total. The hearing was via phone and lasted maybe 20 minutes.

I check SAW every few days but it still just shows 'appeal pending' with no hearing date yet.

That's normal. The hearing scheduling can take 4-8 weeks depending on their backlog.

I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Might be worth checking out if you need to speak with someone about your appeal status.

Thanks, I'll look into that. At this point I'm willing to try anything to get some answers.

Wait, you have to pay someone just to make a phone call? That seems ridiculous.

I understand the frustration but appeals do take time to review properly. At least Washington has a relatively fair appeals process compared to some states.

Fair? I've been waiting 3 months for my hearing. Nothing fair about that.

Good point. I've been collecting everything but wasn't sure what would be most important.

Focus on proving you had good cause for leaving or that you were actually terminated. The burden of proof varies depending on your situation.

Also write down a timeline of events before the hearing. It helps you stay organized when explaining what happened.

Did they charge you much? I'm pretty broke right now but desperate to get some information.

It was worth it for the peace of mind. Much better than spending hours trying to call myself.

That's really discouraging. Is there any way to expedite the process?

Not really, unless you have extreme hardship circumstances. The appeals office is just backed up.

Can you request an expedited hearing for financial hardship? I thought that was an option.

That's great news! I might have to try that service too. Still no hearing date for me.

Glad it worked for you. Still think it's crazy we have to pay a third party service just to make a phone call.

I agree it shouldn't be necessary, but at least I finally have answers instead of sitting in limbo.

That's encouraging to hear. I was worried I was fighting a losing battle.

Just make sure you have your facts straight and can clearly explain what happened. The hearing officer wants to get to the truth.

How did you prepare for the hearing? I'm nervous about what they'll ask.

I wrote out a timeline of events and practiced explaining the situation clearly. Also had emails from my supervisor that showed the problems.

Documentation is key. The more evidence you have to support your case, the better.

September? That's over 3 months. You should definitely call to check on the status.

tried calling hundreds of times, never get through

This is exactly why services like Claimyr exist. Sometimes you need help getting through the phone system.

Good reminder. I did update my address recently so hopefully that won't cause any delays.

Address changes can sometimes slow things down, but as long as you updated it in the system you should be fine.

I understand your frustration. The system isn't perfect but it does eventually work. Hang in there.

Easy to say when you're not the one living on food stamps waiting for a hearing.

What kind of questions did they ask? I want to be prepared.

Mostly about the specific incidents that led to me quitting, whether I tried to resolve issues with management, and if I considered other options before leaving.

My employer said they would participate. Hopefully they don't try to delay things further.

Most employers do show up since they have a vested interest in the outcome. It affects their UI tax rate.

That gives me hope. I filed in October too so maybe I'll hear something soon.

Keep checking your mail. The hearing notice came with about 3 weeks advance notice.

Yes, you can have representation but you have to notify Washington ESD in advance. Most people represent themselves though.

Thanks. I was thinking about it since my case involves some complex employment law issues.

Legal aid offices sometimes help with unemployment appeals if you qualify based on income.

That's what I'm hoping for. Just need to get through this waiting period.

Use the time to organize your evidence and practice explaining your situation clearly and concisely.

Did you win your case? What was the main factor in the decision?

Yes, I won. The key was showing that I had no reasonable alternative but to quit due to unsafe working conditions.

Good cause cases often succeed if you can document the problems and show you tried to resolve them first.

How do you request that? I definitely qualify based on my financial situation.

You need to contact the appeals office directly and explain your circumstances. They'll review it on a case by case basis.

This is another situation where Claimyr could help you get through to make that request.