Two ESD appeals pending since Nov/Dec - typical wait times?

I went through an appeal process that wrapped up in January. Filed my appeal in mid-October and didn't get my hearing until the second week of January - so about 12-13 weeks total. The OAH is extremely backed up right now. I received an acknowledgment letter about 3 weeks after filing, then nothing until they scheduled my hearing with only 10 days notice. You should have at least received acknowledgment letters though - have you checked your spam folder? Also, did you file through eServices or by mail/fax?

i appealed in sept and got hearing in feburary so like 5 months? they sent me a letter in mail not in eservices check ur mailbox

The appeals process through OAH (Office of Administrative Hearings) is unfortunately experiencing significant delays right now. Based on my recent experience helping multiple claimants with their appeals: 1) The current average wait time is 12-16 weeks from appeal filing to hearing date 2) You should receive an acknowledgment letter (usually mailed, not in eServices) within 3-4 weeks of filing 3) If you haven't received acknowledgment letters yet, you should call OAH directly at 360-407-2700 to confirm they received your appeals 4) Once your hearing is scheduled, you'll typically get 10-14 days notice 5) Having multiple appeals may actually be helpful - they sometimes combine related appeals into a single hearing Also, make sure you're continuing to file your weekly claims during this entire process, even if you're being denied. If you win your appeal, you can only receive back benefits for weeks you properly filed claims.

I had an appeal last year and thought I'd never hear back... then out of nowhere got a letter giving me just 7 days notice for my hearing. Start preparing your evidence NOW because you might not have much time once they finally contact you! Gather all your pay stubs, communication with employer, separation documents, etc. Good luck!

If you need to actually speak with an ESD agent to check on your appeal status, I'd recommend trying Claimyr (claimyr.com). I was in a similar situation with an appeal last month - couldn't get through on the phones for weeks. I found this service that got me connected to an ESD agent in about 15 minutes instead of spending hours on hold or getting hung up on. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The agent I spoke with was able to confirm my appeal was in the system and gave me the approximate timeframe for when I might expect a hearing. Saved me tons of anxiety wondering if my appeal had been lost or something.

The ESD appeals process is COMPLETELY BROKEN!!! I filed an appeal in August and didn't get a hearing until January, then waited ANOTHER month for the decision which was WRONG so now I have to appeal AGAIN!!! They're doing this on purpose to discourage people from appealing at all. It's criminal how they treat people who are already struggling financially. My advice: call your state representatives and file a complaint - it's the only way anything will ever change with this system.

Just to follow up on your question about multiple appeals - I checked with a colleague who specializes in OAH processes. When you have two separate appeals, OAH will typically process them based on filing date. However, if they're related issues (like a disqualification and subsequent overpayment), they may consolidate them into a single hearing. One thing that might help speed up the process: if your appeal involves financial hardship (which it sounds like it does), you can request an expedited hearing. This isn't guaranteed, but sometimes helps. Call OAH directly and explain your financial situation - they may be able to prioritize your case.

Once your hearing is finally scheduled, make sure you're fully prepared. The judge will give each side time to present their case. Have all your documentation organized chronologically and be ready to clearly explain your side. If your employer shows up (they often don't), don't interrupt them even if they say things you disagree with - you'll get your chance to respond. And stick to the facts related to your separation/eligibility issues rather than getting emotional or going off on tangents about unrelated workplace problems.