One last tip - if you're serious about training benefits, don't wait too long to apply. Some programs have limited spots and fill up quickly. Also, the approval process can take time, so plan ahead.

Just wanted to add that you should also check if your program qualifies for additional financial aid like Pell Grants or state grants. Even though you're getting training benefits, you might be eligible for extra help with tuition, books, and supplies. I combined TB with a Pell Grant for my nursing program and it made a huge difference financially. The financial aid office at your school can help you figure out what you qualify for.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! This thread has been really informative. I feel much more confident about the timing and process now. Will definitely file that Sunday after my last day and have all my documents ready.

Just wanted to echo what others have said about filing promptly - I waited almost a month after my layoff because I was embarrassed about being unemployed and thought I'd find something quickly. Big mistake! Not only did I miss out on several weeks of benefits, but the job search took way longer than expected. The system is there to help you during tough times, so don't let pride get in the way like I did. File as soon as you're eligible and focus your energy on finding your next opportunity.

Oh that's a relief! I have my W-2 from last year that shows my SSN. I'll upload that right now. Thanks!

This is such helpful information, thank you for sharing! I'm currently on day 12 of identity verification after submitting documents for a similar name change issue (divorce in my case). Reading that you got through in 18 days instead of 5 weeks gives me hope. I called the regular ESD line yesterday and got the usual "several weeks" response, so I'm definitely going to try that Special Investigations Office number tomorrow morning. The fact that they can actually tell you they have your documents and give you a realistic timeline sounds so much better than the vague responses from the main line. Quick question - when you called the Special Investigations Office, did they ask for any specific information beyond your claim number? I want to make sure I have everything ready when I call. Also wanted to mention for others reading this - make sure you keep claiming your weekly benefits even while in adjudication! I almost forgot to do mine this week because I was so focused on the ID verification issue.

One additional important note: Make sure you're still meeting the job search requirements while doing gig work. You need to complete and document 3 job search activities each week, and those activities must be for suitable employment related to your skills and experience, not just any job. If you get selected for a job search review and don't have proper documentation of your activities, you could be disqualified and have to repay benefits. The WorkSource workshops can count as job search activities too, and they offer some good resources for finding employment in your field.

Just wanted to add my experience as someone who's been doing this for about 6 months now. I do Instacart and DoorDash while on unemployment and here's what I've learned: Keep a simple spreadsheet with date, platform, hours worked, and gross earnings for each day. This makes weekly reporting so much easier and gives you backup documentation if needed. Also be aware that gig work earnings can vary wildly week to week - some weeks I make $200, others $400+ depending on demand and my availability. Since you're at the max benefit amount, even small earnings over that 1/3 threshold ($343) will reduce your unemployment dollar-for-dollar, so it's worth tracking your earnings mid-week to see if you should stop working to maximize your total income. One last tip: if you're doing multiple apps in one week, add up ALL the gross earnings across all platforms when reporting to ESD. Don't report them separately or you might confuse their system. Good luck with the job search! The gig work definitely helps bridge the gap financially while you're looking for something permanent.

Bottom line for the original poster - file your claim. There's absolutely no age limit in Washington state for unemployment benefits. You paid into the system while working, you're entitled to benefits if you meet the eligibility requirements.

I went through this same situation at 69 when my warehouse job ended due to company restructuring. Filed online without any issues - Washington ESD never questioned my age, only whether I met the standard requirements. The hardest part was actually the job search component since many employers don't even respond to applications from older workers. But as long as you document your search efforts properly and stay available for work, age is not a factor in your eligibility. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise - you earned these benefits through years of working and paying into the system.