Thanks everyone for all this advice! I feel way more confident about managing my work search requirements now. Going to start a spreadsheet today and be more systematic about everything.

I just wanted to share what's been working for me - I created a simple template in Google Docs that I fill out each time I do a work search activity. It has fields for date, company name, position title, method of contact, and a notes section. Then I just copy and paste the info when I file my weekly claim. Having a consistent format makes it so much easier to stay organized and I never forget important details. Plus Google Docs saves everything automatically so I don't have to worry about losing my records.

One last tip from someone who's been through this - be patient with the process but persistent if something seems wrong. Per diem workers have valid claims, but sometimes you need to educate the system about your specific situation.

I'm also a per diem worker (CNA at a few different facilities) and just wanted to add that when you file, make sure you have all your employer information ready - names, addresses, dates you worked there, etc. The application asks for a lot of detail about each job. Also, don't be discouraged if your claim takes a while to process. Mine took about 4 weeks but I did get approved and received back pay for the waiting period. The key is showing that your hours dropped significantly due to circumstances beyond your control. Good luck with your application!

FWIW the official Washington ESD statistics page gets updated around the 15th of each month with the previous month's data. So right now you're looking at November 2024 numbers. December data should be out soon and will probably show the seasonal uptick from holiday layoffs.

I've been following Washington ESD data for a while and can confirm the current numbers are around 87,000-90,000 people receiving regular UI benefits. However, what's frustrating is that this doesn't include the thousands stuck in adjudication like yourself. From what I've observed, construction layoffs in winter often trigger additional review requirements, which explains your 5-week delay. The system treats seasonal layoffs differently than permanent job losses, requiring verification that it's truly temporary. Your wait time is longer than average but not unheard of for seasonal claims. Have you received any correspondence explaining what specific issue is under review?

Another thing - if they deny your waiver or only approve a partial waiver, you have the right to APPEAL! Don't just accept their decision. You have 30 days from the date on the determination letter to file an appeal with the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH). My first waiver request was completely denied, but I appealed and got 50% waived after the hearing. The judge was actually reasonable unlike the ESD bureaucrats. Make sure you have all your financial hardship evidence organized if you need to go this route.

I'm in a very similar situation - filed my overpayment waiver in March for $18,400 and still waiting for a decision. The stress is absolutely overwhelming, especially when you're already struggling financially. Based on what I'm reading here, it sounds like 3-4 months is pretty typical right now, so you're not alone in the long wait. I've been trying some of the suggestions from this thread: - Called that Collections number (855-829-9243) that Andre mentioned and actually got through! They confirmed my waiver is "under review" but couldn't give a timeline - Been checking my online ESD account weekly for any messages - Continuing to make small payments when I can ($50-75/month) even though it's tight The waiting is the worst part because you can't plan anything or move forward with your life. Hang in there - from what others are saying, it sounds like most people do get at least some relief, even if it's not 100%. And definitely keep that appeal option in mind if the initial decision isn't favorable. Sending you good vibes that you hear something soon! 🤞

Good luck with everything! This is a really common issue but it's definitely fixable. Don't let your employer's mistake prevent you from getting the benefits you're entitled to.

I'm a newcomer here but this thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm a domestic worker too (eldercare companion) and had no idea about the unemployment insurance requirements. My current employer has been treating me as a contractor but after reading all these responses, I'm pretty sure I should be classified as an employee - I work set hours, use their supplies, and they direct how I do my work. Does anyone know if the same rules apply to eldercare workers or is it just for nannies and housekeepers?