Former ESD employee here. The system is unfortunately designed to manage call volume by disconnecting when all agents are busy, rather than creating long hold queues. Here's what I recommend: 1. Call EXACTLY at 8:00:00 AM when the phone lines open 2. If disconnected, wait 2-3 minutes before trying again (consecutive immediate redials get flagged as spam) 3. Use a landline if possible (more stable connection) 4. Have all your information ready (claim ID, dates, specific questions) 5. Be extremely specific about your issue when you do reach an agent For your job search log issue: if you're getting an error when entering activities, try using different activity types. Some claimants have success with "job application" rather than "job search" activities as the system validates them differently.

I was finally able to get through to ESD last month about a similar issue! I noticed that calling on Wednesday around 3:15pm worked for me. The agent told me that's when their call volume typically dips a bit. Also, make sure you're calling the right number for your specific issue. The general claims line (800-318-6022) is different from the weekly claims line (800-318-6020). Good luck!

Also my hearing was done by phone, not in person. Make sure ur phone number is updated in the system and that you answer ALL calls during your scheduled hearing time even if the number looks weird. I almost missed mine cuz it came from a weird area code I didn't recognize!

While you're waiting for your hearing date, use this time to thoroughly prepare. Review the ESD Claimant Handbook section on appeals (pages 39-42), gather all documentation about your separation from employment, and consider if you need witnesses. OAH hearings are formal proceedings where both you and ESD will present your case to an Administrative Law Judge, so preparation makes a significant difference in outcomes. When you do receive your hearing notice, it will include important information about your rights, how to submit evidence, and deadlines for doing so. Read every page carefully.

Just to clarify one technical point about reopening claims: when you reopen, you're required to register for job search services through WorkSource again and resume your job search activities (3 per week). Even if you were exempt before (like on standby status), you need to check if that exemption still applies when reopening. This is a common issue people miss when reopening claims. The job search requirements are strictly enforced now compared to earlier years.

Let us know how it goes! I'm curious if there are any delays with reopening claims in 2025. When I did mine last year it was pretty quick, but I've heard ESD's systems have been updated since then.

Update: I spoke with an ESD agent yesterday who confirmed I should include ALL hours I was required to be at the workplace, including the unpaid time between clients. I've submitted my application with the corrected hours (adding all those 30-min breaks) and it puts me well above the 680 hour threshold! The agent said they might contact my former employer to verify, but as long as I can prove it was mandatory time (I found our employee handbook that states we must remain on premises between appointments), I should be good. Thanks everyone for your help!

One more thing to keep in mind - if your employer disputes the hours, don't panic. ESD will schedule a fact-finding interview where both sides can present their evidence. Just make sure to attend the interview and clearly explain the workplace policy. Having that employee handbook is perfect evidence. Also, if you have any emails or text messages about staying on premises between clients, save those too. Documentation is your best friend in these situations.

my friend did the WorkSource thing and said they helped him with resume writing and interview practice which was actually useful. maybe try that part even if their training isn't AI specific

To update on your question about online certifications: Online training CAN qualify for CAT if it's from an approved provider and is part of a structured program with defined start/end dates and course hours. Self-paced learning generally doesn't qualify. I'd recommend these steps: 1. Set up an appointment with a WorkSource career counselor (they're familiar with what ESD typically approves) 2. Bring a list of specific AI programs you're interested in 3. Ask them to help you determine which would likely qualify for CAT 4. Have them help you with the application paperwork In my experience, having a WorkSource counselor advocate for your application increases approval chances substantially. They know exactly what documentation ESD is looking for.