How long does it take to get unemployment appeal decision from Washington ESD?

Appeal decisions from Washington ESD typically take 4-8 weeks after the hearing date. The administrative law judge has to review all the evidence and testimony before issuing a written decision. Since you had your hearing 3 weeks ago, you're probably looking at another 1-5 weeks depending on their current caseload.

I went through the same thing last year - took exactly 7 weeks from my hearing date to get the decision. The waiting is brutal especially when you're not getting paid during the appeal process.

If you're having trouble getting updates on your appeal status, I had success using Claimyr to get through to an actual Washington ESD representative who could check on my case. It's at claimyr.com and they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Way better than spending hours on hold.

THE WHOLE APPEAL PROCESS IS RIDICULOUS!! I've been waiting 9 weeks for my decision and Washington ESD just keeps saying 'it's under review.' Meanwhile I can't pay rent or buy groceries. This system is broken!

Just got my appeal decision yesterday after 6 weeks exactly. Won my case! The key was having all my documentation organized and presenting a clear timeline during the hearing. Don't give up hope!

For what it's worth, Washington ESD has been running behind on appeal decisions since they're still dealing with higher than normal caseloads. The standard timeframe used to be 30-45 days but now it's commonly 6-10 weeks. Keep checking your eServices account for updates.

mine took 8 weeks but that was during covid so maybe things are faster now?? idk the whole system seems slow no matter what

I'm dealing with the same waiting game right now. Had my hearing 4 weeks ago and nothing yet. At least I know I'm not alone in this frustrating process. My employer contested saying I was fired for attendance but I have medical documentation for all my absences.

Quick question - do you have to keep filing your weekly claims during the appeal process? I wasn't sure if I should continue or wait for the decision.

My friend used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and actually got through to someone who could check the status of her appeal. Apparently the judge had already made a decision but it was stuck in processing. Worth a try if you're really anxious about the timing.

I waited 11 weeks for my appeal decision last year. ELEVEN WEEKS! By the time I got it (which I won, thankfully), I had already found a new job. The backpay was nice but the stress of waiting was terrible.

Pro tip: if you win your appeal, make sure to check that your backpay is calculated correctly. Washington ESD made an error on mine and I had to call to get it fixed. Count up all your weekly claim amounts and compare to what they deposit.

The uncertainty is the worst part. I keep checking my mail every day hoping to see that envelope from Washington ESD. At least when you're waiting for a regular claim decision there's usually some indication of progress.

Just remember that if you lose the appeal, you can appeal again to the Board of Appeals. But hopefully it won't come to that. The administrative law judge decisions are usually pretty thorough.

hang in there! i know the waiting sucks but most people who were truly laid off win their appeals. sounds like you have good documentation so that should help

My advice is to try to stay busy while you wait. I drove myself crazy checking eServices and the mail constantly. The decision will come when it comes, and worrying won't speed it up.

I tried using Claimyr after seeing it mentioned here and it really did help me get through to Washington ESD to check on my appeal. The agent told me my decision was actually ready and would be mailed out within a few days. Got it 3 days later!

Keep us posted on when you get your decision! I'm rooting for you. Sounds like you have a solid case if you were truly laid off due to budget cuts.

One more thing - when you do get your decision, read it carefully even if you win. Sometimes there are conditions or requirements mentioned that you need to follow going forward.

I'm in a similar boat - filed my appeal 5 weeks ago after being denied, and had my hearing 2 weeks ago. The waiting is absolutely nerve-wracking, especially when you're struggling financially. From what I'm reading here, it sounds like 4-8 weeks is pretty typical for Washington ESD appeal decisions. I've been checking eServices obsessively but it just keeps saying "Decision Pending." At least it's reassuring to know this timeline is normal and that many people here have won their appeals. Keeping my fingers crossed for both of us!