How long for first ESD payment after filing weekly claim? UI status just showing 'pending'

In my experience, the first payment usually takes 2-3 weeks if everything goes smoothly with the claim. The key word being "if" - because the system needs to verify his eligibility first. Make sure all these things are completed: 1. Initial application submitted correctly 2. First weekly claim filed (sounds like you did this) 3. Verify his identity is confirmed (check the messages/alerts section) 4. Job search requirements are being met and documented The 'pending' status is normal during this verification period. As long as there are no issues flagged in the system, the payment should process soon. If it goes beyond 3 weeks without changing from pending, that's when you might want to reach out to ESD.

Direct deposit usually takes 2 business days after approval, while the debit card can take 7-10 days to arrive in the mail. So you definitely made the right choice there! One important thing to note: the very first payment might take longer because they're establishing the claim. But once it's set up, future weekly payments should process much faster as long as the weekly claims are filed on time. If your husband worked for the same employer for a while before the layoff, his claim should be pretty straightforward. It's when people have multiple employers or unusual work situations that things tend to get delayed with more verification needed.

has he gotten the ID verification thing in his acct yet? sometimes that holds stuff up. also check for anything about 'fact finding' or 'adjudication' in his messages or alerts. sometimes they dont make it obvious that theres something he needs to respond to

When I got laid off last year, I swear it took FOREVER to get my first payment. The website said 1-2 weeks but it was actually closer to 4 weeks for me! And there was ZERO communication from ESD about why it was taking so long. No alerts, no messages, just that stupid "pending" status. I was pulling my hair out trying to figure out what was going on. Calling their regular number was a complete joke - it would just disconnect me after 2 hours on hold. COMPLETE WASTE OF TIME! I finally got through to an actual person by using Claimyr (claimyr.com). It's a service that basically holds your place in the ESD phone line and calls you when an agent is available. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The ESD agent told me there was a small discrepancy with my employer's reported wages that was holding things up, but it wasn't showing in my online account for some reason. After the call, my payment was processed within 48 hours.

just FYI esd seems extra slow right now, my neighbor applied around same time as ur husband and is still waiting too. i think theres a bunch of layoffs happening cuz i know 3 ppl who got let go this month. probably backlogged system or something

Another thing to check: make sure your husband answered the "able and available for work" questions correctly on his weekly claim. If he indicated any limitations on his availability (like only willing to work certain hours or days), that can trigger a review process that delays payment. Also, verify that he didn't accidentally select "no" to the question about actively seeking work. These seemingly small details can cause unexpected delays. If you're approaching three weeks with no change in status and no clear issues in the account, then definitely try to speak with an ESD representative. The system isn't perfect at alerting you to all potential problems.

hey! just checking back - did ur husband get his payment yet? mine finally came through this morning and it took exactly 16 days from when i filed the initial claim. fingers crossed urs comes soon!!