Update on what you shared about "failure to provide adequate work search documentation" - this is actually a common issue with pandemic claims. The work search requirements were waived during certain periods, then reinstated, then modified several times. It's possible ESD is retroactively reviewing claims and finding documentation gaps. When you appeal, focus specifically on: 1) Whether work search was required during your specific claim period, and 2) What documentation you provided at the time. You might also want to request all records ESD has on your claim through a public records request - this can sometimes reveal processing errors on their end.

I'm going through something similar right now - got an overpayment notice for $3,200 from early 2023 claims. What's really frustrating is that I kept meticulous records during the pandemic because I was so worried about this exact scenario happening! I have screenshots of my approved weekly certifications and all the work search logs I submitted through their system. The thing that bugs me most is how they can just decide years later that documentation they previously accepted is now "inadequate." Like, if there was a problem with my work search records, why didn't they flag it at the time instead of approving my benefits for months? I filed my appeal yesterday and also submitted a waiver request since it's marked as non-fraud. Definitely don't wait on the appeal deadline - I almost missed mine because I kept thinking I could resolve it over the phone first. Good luck getting through to them, but protect yourself with that appeal filing regardless!

UPDATE: You guys won't believe this! I finally got through to ESD this morning and the agent (who was actually super helpful) looked into my account. Turns out they actually OWE ME money! There was some recalculation of pandemic-era benefits and I was underpaid by about $1,200! The weird thing is their system still makes you answer all the overpayment waiver questions even when they're the ones who made a mistake in your favor. The letter was poorly worded and confusing. So for anyone else getting these random letters years later - definitely call and check! Could be good news!

That's amazing news Jamal! Thanks for updating us - this gives me hope for my own situation. I got a similar confusing letter last week and was dreading having to deal with it. Your experience shows it's definitely worth pushing through their terrible phone system. Did they say how long it will take to get your underpayment? And did you have to fill out any additional paperwork or is it automatic now that they've identified the error?

@profile5 Yes, statements from potential employers confirming interviews or application receipts would be very helpful evidence. Anything that corroborates your job search activities could strengthen your case. Email confirmations of applications submitted are particularly useful. What's most important is showing you were actively seeking work during each week you claimed benefits.

Good luck with your appeal! I went through something similar last year (though smaller amount) and the key thing that saved me was having documentation for EVERYTHING. Since you mentioned job search issues, make sure you also print out any job fair attendance records, networking event confirmations, or career counseling appointments if you had any. The ALJ in my case was really thorough and asked specific questions about activities during certain weeks. Also, if you used any job search websites like Indeed or LinkedIn, try to get screenshots of your search history or application history if possible. The more evidence you have that shows active job searching during every claimed week, the stronger your case will be. Keep us posted on how it goes!

Final thought - keep detailed records of everything moving forward. Document all your job search activities, save copies of all correspondence with Washington ESD, and keep receipts for any expenses related to your case. Organization is key to a successful appeal.

I went through a similar situation about 3 years ago. My employer claimed I was terminated for "insubordination" but what really happened was I questioned a safety procedure that I felt was dangerous. Washington ESD initially sided with my employer, but during the appeal hearing I was able to show that I was actually trying to protect myself and coworkers. The key is proving that your actions were reasonable under the circumstances. Based on what you've described - medical issues with documentation and no prior warnings - you definitely have grounds for a successful appeal. Don't let them intimidate you into not fighting this.

Quick update on my earlier comment - I forgot to mention that I called ESD twice during my 4-week adjudication period. The first time they just said it was in process, but the second time (around week 3) the agent added notes to my file about my hardship situation. Not sure if that helped speed things up or if I just got lucky with timing. Might be worth trying to get through to someone if you can!

I'm at week 2 of adjudication and already starting to panic about finances, so thank you for asking this question! Reading through these responses is actually giving me some hope. It sounds like there are definitely people getting approved before the 6-week mark, especially for simpler cases. I'm dealing with a layoff situation too - my whole department got eliminated but HR is taking forever to send ESD the proper documentation. I've been proactive about uploading everything I have (termination letter, final paystub, etc.) but I'm worried their delay will slow down my adjudication. @Ava Garcia - your advice about the hardship expedite is really valuable, I had no idea that was even an option. Going to try calling about that if I hit week 4 without resolution. @Miguel Silva - definitely going to look into that Claimyr service if I can't get through on my own. Seems like actually talking to someone makes a huge difference. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences, both good and bad. At least now I have some concrete steps to try instead of just sitting here refreshing eServices every hour!