UPDATE: Just wanted to let everyone know what worked. I used Chrome browser and clicked on "Apply for unemployment benefits" instead of trying to restart my claim. Had to go through the whole application process again with all my employment history, but it went through! The system accepted my new claim and now I'm able to file weekly claims again. Thanks everyone for your help!

Quick tip that might help others with similar issues - I recently learned that ESD's system treats claims differently based on how they ended. If your previous claim ended because you returned to work (voluntary stop), it's handled differently than if your benefits were exhausted or if your benefit year expired. If anyone reading this is trying to restart after voluntarily stopping claims mid-year, you actually CAN use the restart button as long as you're still within your benefit year. Just another quirk of the system that's not clearly explained anywhere on their website.

I had to quit my job last year when my wife got sick (stroke). I applied for regular unemployment and got denied initially. The denial letter said I had "quit without good cause" even though I explained the medical situation. I filed an appeal and had to wait for a hearing with a judge from OAH. It was really stressful. At the hearing I showed all my wife's medical records and explained why I had to care for her. The judge reversed the decision and I got benefits, but it took almost 3 months from my initial claim to getting any money. If I had known about PFML back then I would've done that instead.

Just to follow up on the PFML suggestion, which I agree is likely your best option: When you apply, you'll need certification from your father's healthcare provider. The certification form is available on the PFML website. If you do end up going the unemployment route instead, make sure you continue filing weekly claims even while in adjudication. Many people don't realize they need to keep filing weekly claims during the adjudication process. If your claim is eventually approved, you'll receive back payments for those weeks - but only if you filed claims for them.

@haloqty87 Yes, I eventually got backpaid but had to fight for it after winning my appeal. They tried to say I "failed to properly file a new claim" even though I did everything by the book! The system is rigged against us!

Just to clarify some misinformation in this thread - your appeal and BYE date are two separate processes that unfortunately can overlap. The BYE date is simply the end of your 52-week benefit period, while an appeal addresses a specific determination on your claim. When you reach your BYE date: 1. File a new claim immediately 2. Continue to file weekly claims without interruption 3. Contact ESD to have them add a notation about your active appeal 4. Keep separate documentation for your appeal process vs. your new claim If you win your appeal after your BYE date, any benefits awarded from the appeal decision will still be processed and paid, even though they relate to your previous benefit year.

my friend had this exact thing happen in 2025 and he called esd and told them it was a hardship situation and they rushed it through in like 10 days. just say ur about to be evicted or something they sometimes have ways to speed it up

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! I've started documenting my job searches better and am going to try Claimyr to get someone on the phone tomorrow. I'll update when I know more about my claim status. Fingers crossed it doesn't take the full 6+ weeks again - I just can't afford that kind of gap right now.

Glad you got it resolved! This is unfortunately a common issue with ESD refunds - they get stuck in that limbo between approval and accounting. Thanks for updating us on what worked for you.

nice! so happy u got ur money back finally!