How long does the unemployment appeal process take with Washington ESD?

That's way longer than I expected! Is there any way to speed it up or get priority scheduling?

Not really, they go in order of when appeals were filed. The only exception is if you can prove financial hardship but even then it's rare.

What kind of documentation did you need? I have my termination letter but not much else.

termination letter is good, also any emails about the layoff, company memos about budget cuts, anything showing it wasn't misconduct

Never heard of that service. Does it actually work for getting through to a real person?

Yeah, they handle all the calling and waiting for you. Got me connected to an adjudicator who could actually tell me where my appeal was in the queue.

Interesting, might try that myself. The Washington ESD phone lines are impossible to get through on.

10 weeks?! That's horrible. Did you try calling to check on it?

TRIED CALLING 50+ TIMES. Either busy signal or they hang up after 2 hours on hold. System is designed to make you give up.

I understand the frustration but 10 weeks is unusually long. There might be an issue with your appeal paperwork or it got lost in the system.

NO, appeals are not automatic! You have to file an appeal within 30 days of your denial notice. Check your denial letter for the appeal form or file online through your SecureAccess Washington account.

Oh no! I better do that today then. Thanks for the heads up!

Yeah don't wait, that 30 day deadline is strict. I almost missed mine because I didn't realize it wasn't automatic either.

That makes sense. Mine involves reviewing my entire employment history and the circumstances around my termination.

Exactly. The ALJ has to review all the evidence from both sides. More complex cases need more time for preparation and review.

Thanks for the encouragement! I really need to win this appeal.

Really? I stopped filing because I thought there was no point since I was denied.

Big mistake! You need to keep filing to preserve your right to those benefits. Start filing again immediately, even if you're not getting paid yet.

This is absolutely correct. Many people lose out on thousands in backpay because they stopped filing during appeals.

That's somewhat reassuring I guess. Do you recommend people get lawyers for these appeals?

For complex cases or if substantial money is involved, yes. But many people successfully represent themselves, especially for straightforward layoff situations.

That's good to hear. I'm nervous about the hearing but hopefully the judge will see my side.

Just be honest and stick to the facts. Don't get emotional even if your former employer lies or exaggerates.

Someone else mentioned that too. I might try it since I can't get through on the phone.

Yeah she said they actually got her connected to someone who could tell her exactly where her appeal stood in the process.

Good advice. I've been keeping a spreadsheet of all my interactions so far.

Smart! That kind of documentation can be really helpful if you need to escalate or if there are problems with your case.

Exactly! I'm burning through my emergency fund while waiting for this to get resolved.

I understand the frustration but there's also a lot of fraud in the system. The thorough review process protects the integrity of the program.

Thanks, I hope you're right. I have nothing to hide so hopefully that works in my favor.

That's a good idea. I hadn't thought about other programs. Do you know where to apply?

DSHS website has most of the programs listed. Also check with local food banks and utility companies for assistance programs.

Appeals are supposed to be decided solely on the merits of the case, not on hardship. While hardship might get you priority scheduling in rare cases, it won't change the outcome.

Good to know, thanks for the clarification. I guess I was thinking of expedited processing rather than the actual decision.

Trying to stay positive but it's hard when bills are piling up. Hopefully it gets resolved soon.

Good point. I've been checking it every few days but I should probably check more often.

Yeah, I'd check at least weekly. They don't always send email notifications for everything.

Well that's something I guess. Thanks everyone for all the advice and timeline info. Really helps to know what to expect.

Good luck with your appeal! Remember that Claimyr option if you need to get status updates. Really saved me a lot of frustration.

Of course there's more waiting even after winning! But good to know so I can plan accordingly.

Yeah, the bureaucracy never ends. But at least you'll get all your backpay in a lump sum when it does come through.