


Ask the community...
Just wondering - have you been doing your job search activities while on your current claim? I'm asking because I knew someone who got denied a new claim because they hadn't been keeping up with their job search requirements on their prior claim. ESD can be really picky about that stuff. Maybe double-check your WorkSource account to make sure everything's up to date before applying for the new claim.
Yes, I've been doing my 3 job search activities every week and logging them. I've actually had several interviews but haven't landed a position yet. The job market in my field has been really tough lately. Thanks for the reminder though - I'll double check my WorkSource account is all current before I apply for the new claim.
One additional thing to consider: Your weekly benefit amount on your new claim will be calculated based on your highest-earning quarters during the base year. Since you worked from September 2023 to March 2024, those quarters will determine your new benefit amount. If you were earning more at this recent job than you were before your first claim, your weekly benefit amount might actually increase. Conversely, if you were earning less, your new weekly amount might be lower. Also, start gathering documentation of your employment now - pay stubs, employment verification letter, contact info for HR at your last employer. Having these ready when you file your new claim on July 28th will help prevent delays in processing.
For responding to those ESD letters, I've found it helpful to both upload documents AND call in (if you can get through). The key is to make sure your responses are associated with the specific issue ID number on the notice. Each adjudication issue has a unique identifier, and if you don't reference it correctly, your response might not get matched up properly.
For what it's worth, I've compiled some of the most helpful information from various posts (including yours) into a document about navigating common ESD issues. Things like adjudication timelines, required documentation for identity verification, and the appeals process. Would you mind if I shared it here? I've made sure to remove any personally identifiable information. I think a resource like this could help reduce some of the repetitive questions and frustrations people experience.
btw does any1 know if we still have 2 do job search activities if were on standby status? my boss says ill be back in 4 weeks but ESD website is confusing me
If you have approved standby status, you don't need to complete job search activities during the standby period. However, you must still file your weekly claims and be able and available for work. Make sure your standby status is actually approved in your ESD account - don't just take your employer's word for it. Check your determination letters in your online account or call ESD to confirm.
oh i 4got to mention if ur using the GI Bill that doesnt count against ur unemployment. some ppl think it does but it dont. u can collect both at same time
This is correct. GI Bill benefits are for education and don't impact your unemployment eligibility or benefit amount. However, if you're attending school full-time, ESD might question your availability for work, so be prepared to explain how you're still able and available to accept full-time employment while attending school.
Marilyn Dixon
GOOD LUCK today!!!! Let us know how it goes. The ESD system is so frustrating sometimes but occasionally they get it right lol
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Isabel Vega
•Thank you!! I'm so nervous but trying to stay calm. Will definitely update after the hearing.
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Amun-Ra Azra
I JUST had a hearing last Thursday for a similar issue!!! Mine was reduction in hours too but different circumstances. The judge actually ruled in my favor ON THE SPOT which I wasn't expecting! Make sure you have your dates straight about when your hours were cut vs when you applied for school. My judge was super focused on the timeline of events. Judges know people need to support themselves so if you can show the hours cut made that impossible, you have a good chance!
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Isabel Vega
•Oh wow, that's encouraging! I definitely know my timeline - hours were cut in January, I stuck it out hoping for improvement until late February, quit on March 3rd, and then applied for school courses starting in April. I'll make sure to emphasize this clear sequence. Thanks for sharing your success story!
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