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wait so do we need to keep the actual job posting too? or just proof we applied? i deleted all that stuff ages ago
You don't need the full job posting, but you need enough information to prove the job was real and that you actually applied. At minimum: company name, position title, date of application, and some form of confirmation (email receipt, screenshot of confirmation page, contact info of person you spoke with). For in-person networking, you need date, contact info, and notes about what was discussed regarding employment.
For anyone dealing with this now, I recommend creating a spreadsheet with all the information you can remember about your job searches. List the company, position, date, application method, and any contact info you have. Then start gathering whatever documentation still exists. During my audit, having this organized information made a big difference, even for the few cases where I couldn't find the original confirmation. Also, don't panic if you get an audit notice - respond promptly and work with them. They're mainly looking for people who completely fabricated job searches, not honest mistakes in record-keeping.
Thanks everyone for the help! I'm going to try to get through to ESD tomorrow and ask specifically for the "Emergency Proclamation Job Search Suspension Notice" and reference the WAC emergency rule. If I can't get through I might try that Claimyr service since I really need this documentation quickly. My previous employer is claiming I didn't meet requirements during weeks when the requirements were actually suspended, so having the official documentation seems like the only way to resolve this. I'll update if I have any success!
Good plan. One more thing - make sure to also request any notices that were sent to your eServices inbox during that time period. ESD should have copies of all communications sent to you, even if you deleted them. Those notices often contained specific instructions about how to answer the job search question during the pandemic, which could help your case.
Wait isn't there like a time limit for employers to dispute unemployment claims??? It's been like 5 YEARS since the pandemic started, how can they even do this now??
There's typically a 30-day window for initial protests, but for fraud allegations or overpayment investigations, ESD can go back much further. It's unusual but not impossible, especially if the employer is claiming they just discovered information they didn't have before. The statute of limitations for unemployment fraud in Washington is longer than many people realize.
my sister works in healthcare and she said ALWAYS report training bc even if its not direct deposit ur employer reports the pay to IRS and ESD will crosscheck later
Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! I'm going to report the CE training hours for the week I complete them, save all documentation showing it was required certification training, and use the formula someone shared to estimate my reduced benefit. It sounds like this is pretty normal and won't disqualify me from benefits entirely that week. Really appreciate all the input!
THE ESD SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO DENY PEOPLE THEIR BENEFITS!!! I'm convinced they train their employees to find ANY reason to disqualify claims. I went through something similar last month and it took FIVE WEEKS to get it fixed. Had to call 87 TIMES before I got through (yes I counted). By the time I got my benefits I was already behind on rent and had my electricity shut off. They don't care AT ALL about our suffering!!! You need to DEMAND to speak to a supervisor. Don't let them transfer you to another regular agent. Say the words "escalate to supervisor" over and over until they do it. Regular agents won't fix anything!!! Also RECORD EVERY CALL with them if your state allows it. I wish I had done this because they kept giving me different information every time I called.
While I understand your frustration, I don't think the system is deliberately designed to deny benefits. It's just severely understaffed and the rules are complicated. Recording calls is good advice though - Washington is a two-party consent state, so just make sure to tell them you're recording at the beginning of the call.
Hey just wondering - did you try the Claimyr thing? Did it work? I'm in a similar situation now and considering trying it but wasn't sure if it's legit
Update for everyone: I was able to get through to ESD yesterday! I used a combination of calling at 7:59am exactly like someone suggested and also contacting my state rep's office. I'm not sure which one actually worked, but I finally spoke with a supervisor who reviewed my case. Turns out the first agent completely misunderstood my medication situation and incorrectly flagged me as unable to work. The supervisor reversed the disqualification on the spot and said my payments should process within 48 hours. I'm still going to submit the appeal just to be safe though. Thank you all for your help during this stressful time!
Victoria Jones
just wondering... does anyone know if we can change the tax withholding option after we've already started the claim? i selected it too but really need the full amount right now
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Nick Kravitz
•Yes, you can change your tax withholding preference. Go to your eServices account, select your current claim, and look for the option to update your payment preferences or tax withholding. The change should take effect on your next payment. Just remember you'll still owe those taxes when you file next year.
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Natalie Chen
Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! You all were right - it was the tax withholding plus a small health insurance premium. I found where it shows the breakdown in eServices after clicking on individual payments. I feel much better knowing there's no issue with my claim. Really appreciate this community!
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