Washington ESD unemployment claim complications with ADA accommodations - HR manager seeking guidance

Thanks, that's exactly what I was worried about. Our separation notice does mention layoffs but I'm wondering if we should have been more explicit about it not being accommodation-related.

You can always send additional clarification to Washington ESD if needed. Document everything clearly to avoid any misconceptions about the termination reason.

Same here, the phone system is completely broken. I've tried calling first thing in the morning, during lunch, doesn't matter.

Have you tried using Claimyr? It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. I found it at claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me weeks of frustration trying to reach them.

Never heard of that, is it legit? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point.

I understand that completely - the termination was absolutely not related to their accommodation request. It was part of a company-wide layoff affecting 30% of our workforce due to budget constraints.

That makes sense then. Washington ESD probably just needs to verify the layoff was legitimate and not targeted. Should resolve once they review the documentation.

Adjudication delays are unfortunately common, especially when there are any complications with the separation circumstances. Washington ESD has to investigate to ensure eligibility requirements are met.

well its not like i quit or got fired for cause. just got laid off like everyone else

How much does that cost though? I'm already broke waiting for unemployment benefits.

It's way cheaper than missing weeks of benefits while your claim sits in limbo. The peace of mind alone was worth it for me.

Good point. We've been responsive so far but I'll make sure we have comprehensive documentation ready if they ask for more details about the layoff process.

Yeah, Washington ESD will want to see that the layoff was based on business necessity and not discriminatory. Sounds like you're handling it right though.

Absolutely. Unresponsive employers are one of the biggest causes of adjudication delays. Washington ESD can't process claims without proper employer verification.

That explains a lot. My claim has been stuck for 2 months and my former employer is terrible with paperwork.

You might want to try reaching Washington ESD directly about that. They can sometimes expedite when they know the employer is being unresponsive.

I feel you on the phone issues. Someone earlier mentioned Claimyr and I actually tried it last week - got through to someone at Washington ESD within an hour instead of calling for days myself.

Is that the one with the video demo? I saw someone mention that earlier. Might have to check it out because this is insane.

That's really helpful insight. How long do these types of cases typically take to resolve? The employee is understandably anxious about their benefits.

In my experience, anywhere from 4-8 weeks when accommodations are in the employment history. Washington ESD has to be thorough to protect against discrimination claims.

Thank you. This employee was with us for 4 years and was a valued team member. The layoffs were really difficult but we want to make sure they get the support they're entitled to.

That's how it should be. Too many employers try to fight legitimate unemployment claims just to keep their UI tax rates low.

That's definitely worth appealing if you believe the termination was discriminatory. You might also want to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Already did that. Just frustrated that my unemployment claim is stuck while I fight this battle.

They'll typically send a fact-finding questionnaire asking specifically about the circumstances of termination, including any accommodation requests or disability-related issues.

We haven't received anything like that yet, but I'll keep an eye out. Good to know what to expect.

That's terrible. Employers who don't cooperate with Washington ESD just make everything harder for everyone.

Tell me about it. Been waiting 2 months for my claim to process because they won't return calls or submit paperwork.

That's a good point I hadn't considered. Their accommodation needs were pretty minimal - just ergonomic equipment and flexible scheduling - so shouldn't impact their general job search ability.

Yeah, Washington ESD has to verify that claimants can perform suitable work. Minor accommodations usually aren't an issue but they might ask questions about it.

Employers can't check claim status directly, but Washington ESD should provide context when they contact you about a claim. You can always ask for clarification about what information they need.

Thanks, that's helpful. Sometimes the requests come through different departments and there's no coordination.