I'm in a similar situation and have been hesitant to start any gig work because of all the conflicting information out there. Reading through everyone's experiences here is really helpful - it sounds like the key is being super accurate with reporting and keeping detailed records. One question I have is about the timing of reporting. If I work Uber Eats on a Sunday but don't get paid until the following Tuesday, do I report those earnings for the week I worked (the week with Sunday) or the week I got paid? I want to make sure I get this right from the start to avoid any flags on my account. Also, has anyone had experience with ESD asking for additional documentation about gig work income beyond just the weekly reporting? I'm wondering if I should be prepared to provide screenshots or other proof upfront.

I've been doing Uber Eats while on unemployment for about 6 months now and wanted to share what's worked for me. The most important thing is consistency in your reporting - I report my earnings every single week even if it's just $15 from a couple deliveries. What helped me avoid any flags was being very clear in my job search documentation that the Uber work is temporary supplemental income while I search for full-time employment. I still apply to 3+ regular jobs every week and document everything properly. One tip that saved me time: I take a screenshot of my Uber earnings summary every Sunday night before filing my weekly claim on Monday. That way I have the exact gross amount right there and don't have to dig through the app later. Also, don't stress too much about the earnings deduction formula - the ESD system calculates it automatically when you input your gross earnings. You'll see exactly how it affects your benefit amount before you submit your weekly claim. The key is just being completely transparent about what you're doing. I've never had any issues because I treat the Uber work exactly like I would any other part-time job - report it honestly and keep doing my required job search activities.

Just wanted to add that Washington state actually has pretty clear guidelines for seasonal workers - you're definitely eligible as long as you meet the basic requirements. I've been doing seasonal work (summer camp counselor and winter retail) for three years now and file for benefits during my gap periods without any issues. The $18k you earned should easily qualify you for benefits. One tip: when you file online, there's a section where you can explain your work pattern - mention that you do seasonal work but are actively seeking temporary employment during the off-season. This helps establish that you're genuinely available for work and not just waiting around for your next seasonal position. Also, don't stress too much about the phone system - the online filing process is actually pretty straightforward and you can usually get everything done without having to call.

I work seasonal jobs too and can confirm that Washington ESD is actually pretty accommodating for seasonal workers. One thing that really helped me was registering with WorkSource immediately after filing my claim - they have job search resources specifically for seasonal and temporary workers. Also, if you're worried about the wage requirements, you can check your quarterly wage statements online once you create your ESD account to see exactly what wages they have on file. With $18k from two different employers, you should be well above the minimum threshold. The whole process took about 2-3 weeks for my first payment to come through, but it was worth it to have that income bridge during the gap between seasons.

Good luck with your submission! 12 pages sounds thorough - that's exactly the kind of comprehensive documentation ESD likes to see. The fact that you included the WorkSource training certificate is smart too, as it shows you're actively working to improve your employability. I went through a similar verification last year and the waiting period is definitely nerve-wracking, but it sounds like you've covered all the bases. Keep us posted on the outcome - your experience could really help other folks who get hit with these requests!

I just went through this exact same verification request a few months ago and totally understand the panic! Here's what worked for me: I created a chronological timeline showing my job search activities week by week, including screenshots of job applications, any networking events I attended (even virtual ones), and most importantly - I included a simple spreadsheet tracking all my applications with company names, positions, dates applied, and outcomes (no response, rejection, etc.). What really seemed to help was that I also included a brief cover letter explaining that while I hadn't received interviews yet, I remained actively engaged in my job search and was immediately available for work. I mentioned specific steps I was taking to improve my chances like updating my resume, expanding my search radius, and considering related positions in my field. The whole process took about 10 days to review once I submitted everything. Don't stress too much - if you've been legitimately doing your job searches and are truly available for work, the documentation will support that. Just be thorough and honest in your submission!

Washington state, no question. The rule is simple - file where you work, and you work from your home in Washington. Don't overthink it!

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago - worked for a company in Colorado while living in Seattle. Filed with Washington ESD and it was totally straightforward. The key thing that helped me was having a clear separation notice from my employer that specifically mentioned I was a remote worker based in Washington. ESD processed everything normally and I started receiving benefits within about 2-3 weeks. Don't stress too much about it - remote work unemployment claims are pretty routine for them now!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now! Applied for PFML 10 days ago to care for my newborn and I'm getting anxious about the wait time. Reading through all these responses is really helpful - sounds like employer verification delays are super common. I'm going to check with my HR department tomorrow to make sure they've completed their part. Thanks for sharing your experience and the update that you got it resolved!

Just went through this exact same process a few months ago for my mom's hip replacement! The waiting is absolutely nerve-wracking, especially when you're already stressed about your family member's health. From my experience and what I've learned from others, here are a few key things to check: 1. Log into your PFML account and go to the "Documents" section - make sure nothing shows as "Under Review" or has a red status indicator 2. Check your Secure Message Center daily (not just email) - they communicate mostly through there 3. Verify with HR that they've completed their employment verification 4. Make sure your dad's doctor filled out the medical certification completely with their license number The employer verification delay seems to be super common based on everyone's comments here. My claim was held up for almost 2 weeks because HR didn't realize they had received something from ESD that needed to be completed. Once they did their part, I was approved within 3 days. Hang in there - the stress is real but it sounds like you're still well within normal processing times!