How to pay back unemployment overpayment - Washington ESD payment plan options?

Thank you! Do you know if there's a minimum monthly payment amount they require?

It varies based on your income and expenses. They're usually reasonable if you're honest about your financial situation. I think the minimum is around $25-50/month but don't quote me on that.

How long did it take to get approved for the payment plan once you talked to someone?

They approved it during the phone call and sent me a confirmation letter within a week. Just make sure you get the agreement in writing.

For anyone struggling to get through to Washington ESD by phone, I recently discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com) - it's a service that helps you actually reach a live agent. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of redialing!

How do I know if it's an error? The notice doesn't explain exactly why they think I was overpaid.

You can request a detailed breakdown of the overpayment calculation. Compare it to your records of work hours and wages you reported. If something doesn't match up, that's grounds for an appeal.

This is important advice. I've seen people pay back money they didn't actually owe because they were too intimidated to question Washington ESD.

Did they ever explain why the overpayment happened in the first place?

something about me not reporting some part time work correctly but honestly I followed all the instructions they gave me so idk. I was too stressed to fight it

What time do they open? I've been calling in the afternoon and can never get through.

I believe it's 8 AM but check the Washington ESD website to confirm. Morning calls definitely have better success rates.

How do I apply for a hardship waiver? Is there a specific form?

You'll need to write a letter explaining your financial situation and provide documentation like bank statements, bills, etc. There isn't a standard form - you just explain why paying would cause hardship.

I tried this and they denied it even though I was basically broke at the time. Don't get your hopes up too much.

Can they garnish wages even if I'm currently unemployed?

They can garnish future wages when you do find work, and they can definitely take your tax refunds. Better to stick to the payment plan.

Good advice. I had to do this when I lost my job again and they were understanding about lowering my monthly payment.

That's reassuring to know they're flexible if circumstances change.

I agree the system is confusing, but they do have the right to audit claims and recover overpayments. It's in the fine print when you file.

yeah I know they CAN do it legally but it still feels unfair when people are just trying to survive

Yes, they definitely make errors! I mentioned this earlier - always request a detailed breakdown and compare it to your records.

My friend successfully got his overpayment reduced by about $800 because they had wrong wage information. It's worth checking.

I'm definitely going to look into that service. I can't keep missing work to make these calls.

Same here. I've probably spent 15+ hours trying to get through to them over the past month.

That's convenient! Do they charge fees for online payments?

I don't think so, but double-check when you set up the plan. Much easier than mailing payments though.

Oh wow, I didn't know they could do that. That could really hurt if I need those benefits.

Yeah, it's called offset. Another reason to try to pay it off as quickly as you can manage.

Thanks for the encouragement. It's good to hear from someone who's actually getting through it.

You'll get through it too. Just take it one month at a time.

Good strategy. I'll keep that in mind when I call them.

Exactly. Be honest about your budget but don't agree to more than you can consistently afford.

Will do! I'm going to try calling tomorrow morning and see if I can get through. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice.

Good luck! Remember to get everything in writing once you reach an agreement.