How to get recordings of initial ESD claim for unemployment hearing - need evidence fast

Yes, you can request the recording or transcript of your husband's initial claim by submitting a records request to ESD. Go to the ESD website and look for the "Public Records Request" form - you'll need your husband's claim ID number and SSN. Make sure to specifically request the "initial claim interview recording" and mention it's for an upcoming appeal hearing. This should expedite the process. For the hearing itself, focus on gathering any evidence that proves your husband was able and available for work during the period in question. This might include job search logs, application confirmations, emails with potential employers, etc. The "able and available" requirement means he must have been physically capable of working and ready to accept suitable work if offered.

I went thru something similar last yr. The paperwork is CRAZY confusing!! What helped me was calling ESD directly and asking them to explain the specific reason for disqualification. Sometimes what's in the official notice isn't clear at all. Once you understand EXACTLY why they disqualified him, it's easier to gather the right evidence. Btw those hearings are super formal with a real judge and everything. Def prepare what you're going to say ahead of time.

I used to work for ESD, and I can tell you that getting the recordings might take longer than 3 weeks through the normal public records process. Your best bet is to contact the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) directly - they have more direct access to claim information than you can get through regular channels. Ask them specifically what evidence they need regarding the "able and available" issue. Typically, for able and available disputes, you need to prove: 1. Your husband was physically and mentally capable of working (doctor's note if relevant) 2. He was actively seeking suitable work (job search logs) 3. He didn't impose unreasonable restrictions on acceptable work 4. He was available during standard working hours Focus your evidence on these points rather than disputing the recording itself, as that might not arrive in time.

i had my hearing last month and WON!! the judge was actually really nice and let me explain my situation even tho i didn't have all the "evidence" they wanted. just be honest and explain why your husband was actually available for work. also bring PRINTED copies of everything - they don't let you show stuff from your phone during the hearing (learned that the hard way lol

If you're still struggling to reach ESD by phone, you might want to try using Claimyr (claimyr.com). I was in the same boat - couldn't get through for weeks and needed information for my appeal hearing. Claimyr got me connected to an actual ESD agent within about 30 minutes instead of fighting busy signals all day. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 Once I got through to ESD, I was able to get very specific information about what statements in my original claim were being disputed, which helped me prepare better for my hearing. Definitely worth it when you're on a deadline for something this important.

THE SYSTEM IS RIGGED!!!! They make these hearings IMPOSSIBLE to win for regular people. I had all my evidence and they still denied me because I "didn't meet the burden of proof" which is total BS. They're denying everyone they can to save money. Watch out for the judge asking tricky questions trying to get your husband to contradict himself. They're not on your side!!!!!

Make sure u find out EXACTLY what week(s) they're questioning for the "able and available" issue. My husband's case was only about a specific 2-week period when he had limited his hours due to childcare, not his whole claim. If u know the specific dates it makes preparing way easier. btw do u have a copy of his weekly claim certifications? Those are super important since that's what they're usually comparing to the initial application to find "inconsistencies

One more thing - if you're preparing for an "able and available" hearing, get familiar with WAC 192-170-010 through 192-170-070. These are the Washington Administrative Code sections that define what "able and available" actually means. Judges reference these specific codes during hearings. You can find them online by searching "WAC unemployment able and available". Also, hearings are typically held by phone right now. Make sure you're in a quiet place with good reception, have all your documents organized and labeled, and take notes during the proceeding.