Generally there's minimal downside to having a professional conversation. Frame it as "this role isn't the right fit for either of us" rather than "I want to quit but need unemployment." Many employers understand it's better for everyone if an employee who isn't a good fit moves on, and coding it as a layoff can be a win-win. If they seem receptive, you could even offer a transition period where you help train your replacement.

UPDATE: I called ESD this morning to ask about a similar situation and the agent confirmed that job elimination followed by unsuitable work CAN qualify for benefits. She said they look at these on a case-by-case basis and that documenting the differences between positions is critical. She also mentioned that if your pay was reduced by more than 25% OR your skills aren't transferable to the new role, those are strong factors in your favor. Hope this helps someone!

Update: I went ahead and submitted the change to direct deposit yesterday. The system accepted my bank info without any errors, so that's a good sign. I'll report back next week to let everyone know if my payment arrives on time and which method it used. Thanks for all the advice!

Final update: My payment this week still went to my debit card as many of you predicted. I checked my ESD account and it shows the direct deposit is now active, so next week's payment should go to my bank account. No delays at all with the payment, which was a relief!

According to ESD regulations, you must report any educational activities while claiming benefits. For your situation, here's what matters: 1) Your availability during normal business hours (8am-5pm, M-F) 2) Your continued ability to conduct 3 job search activities per week 3) Your willingness to accept suitable full-time work if offered Evening certificate programs typically don't interfere with these requirements, so your benefits should continue uninterrupted as long as you properly report your educational activities on your weekly claim. When you report, ESD will likely send you a questionnaire (usually through your eServices account) asking for more details about your training. Be prepared to provide your class schedule and a statement about your continued availability for work.

One more important detail - if you're taking these classes to get into a new career field, you might want to look into the official Training Benefits program through ESD instead of just taking regular classes. The Training Benefits program can extend your unemployment while you complete approved training programs, but you have to apply and get approved. Deadline is usually within first 16 weeks of your claim.

For her unemployment application, make sure she uses these exact terms when explaining the situation: 1. "Administrative furlough due to background check processing" 2. "Temporary work stoppage not due to misconduct" 3. "Unable to perform work duties solely due to required administrative processing" These specific phrases will help trigger the right classification in the ESD system. Also, when she applies, she should select "laid off" rather than "quit" or "fired" when asked about her separation reason. Background check processing delays are considered administrative furloughs in most cases, which fall under the laid off category. If she gets denied (which happens to many first-time applications), definitely appeal right away. The appeal form will give her more space to fully explain the situation.

sorta off topic but this happened to my neighbor who is also a caregiver and she ended up applying for emergency assistance through DSHS for that month instead of dealing with unemployment. might be another option if the ESD route doesn't work out.

btw did u try the online message center thing? sometimes they actually respond to those

UPDATE: I just learned that ESD recently changed their phone system. Try option 2, then 1, then 3 in the menu to bypass some of the general queues. Also, if you're willing to drive to a WorkSource center in person, they sometimes have direct lines to ESD representatives that can help with payment issues. Bring ID and your claim information if you go that route.