Where do I upload my ID verification documents for ESD unemployment? Just filed first weekly claim

Don't panic! ESD doesn't require everyone to submit ID verification upfront. They'll specifically request it if they need to verify your identity. You'll get a notification in your eServices account under 'Pending Issues' and also an alert via email if this happens. Just keep checking your account dashboard regularly. If you do get an ID verification request, you'll upload documents through the Secure Message Center in your eServices account - there will be a specific upload option that appears when they request it.

they only ask for ID if the system flags ur account for some reason. i never had to send mine and got paid after my first weekly claim no problem

I had this same issue back in January! Waited 3 weeks with no payment then realized they needed my ID verification. Turns out they sent the request but I missed the notification because it went to my spam folder. Double check ALL your emails including junk folder!!!

ESD system is GARBAGE!! They'll make you wait WEEKS before telling you there's a problem, then make you jump through hoops to fix it. I submitted my ID verification THREE TIMES and they kept saying they didn't receive it. Finally had to call them directly after waiting forever on hold. The whole system is designed to discourage people from collecting benefits they're entitled to!!!

just make sure your phone # and email are correct in your account settings. thats how they send notifications if they need anything from you

To answer your question about timing - if no identity verification is required, most claimants receive their first payment within 7-10 days after submitting their first weekly claim. But if they do request ID verification, it can add 2-3 weeks to the process. Just be sure to respond immediately if they request documents. Also, make sure you're completing your three required job search activities each week and documenting them properly. That's another common reason payments get held up for new claimants.

I went through this exact same situation last month! The waiting and uncertainty is definitely nerve-wracking. One thing that helped me was setting up text notifications in my eServices account - go to "Communication Preferences" and enable SMS alerts. That way you'll get immediate notifications if ESD needs anything from you, instead of relying only on email which can get buried or go to spam. Also, I found it helpful to log into eServices every couple days just to check the status, even if there are no new messages. The system updates pretty regularly and you'll see any new "Pending Issues" or payment status changes right away. You're doing everything right by staying on top of your weekly claims and job search activities!