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Just to add one important point that hasn't been mentioned: If you stop claiming UI because you found work, but then lose that job and need to reopen your claim within the same benefit year, you'll need to re-engage with WorkSource requirements. The benefit year typically lasts 52 weeks from when you first applied, even if you stop claiming for a while in between.
To summarize what everyone's said and add clarity (I'm an employment counselor): 1. WorkSource requirements ONLY apply when actively claiming UI benefits 2. Once you stop filing weekly claims, requirements end immediately 3. You may continue receiving automated emails/calls for a while (systems take time to update) 4. You can still voluntarily use WorkSource services even when not on UI 5. If you reopen your claim in the same benefit year, requirements resume Also worth noting - in 2025, all UI claimants must complete 3 documented job search activities each week. WorkSource participation counts toward these activities but isn't always required depending on your situation.
One thing that really helped my appeal was having a clear timeline of events. I'd recommend writing down exactly when these schedule changes happened, how much notice you were given, how it affected you (missed appointments, childcare issues, etc). Having specific examples rather than general complaints makes a huge difference to the judge. Also, if you had any conversations with your supervisor trying to resolve the issue before quitting, document those too.
UPDATE: I got through to ESD finally! The agent confirmed that yes, I can get backpay for the weeks I was waiting in adjudication IF my appeal is successful. She also said I should definitely keep filing weekly claims until the appeal is decided (even after I start working) and just report any new income accurately. She said the appeal is likely to take 6-8 weeks, which isn't great but at least I know now. Thanks everyone for your help!
my mom got laid off at 59 and ended up starting her own business with her severance money! now she makes more than she did at her old job lol. maybe instead of looking for someone to hire you, you could be your own boss?
That's amazing for your mom! I don't have much severance to work with unfortunately, and I'm not sure I have the risk tolerance to start something at this point in my life. But maybe there are some consulting opportunities in my field I could explore that wouldn't require much startup capital. Something to think about for sure.
Just an important update regarding what I mentioned earlier - definitely talk to someone at WorkSource about the Commissioner Approved Training/Training Benefits program. If approved, you could get up to 26 ADDITIONAL weeks of benefits while you train for a new occupation, and you wouldn't have to look for work during that period. The Training Benefits program is specifically designed for people in your situation - dislocated workers who need to gain new skills. There are deadlines for applying though, so don't wait too long. You need to submit your application within your current benefit year, ideally well before your regular benefits run out.
This is incredibly helpful information! I've made an appointment with WorkSource for next Tuesday to discuss training options. I'm going to research programs before then so I have a clear idea of what I want to pursue. Thank you so much for this guidance - it's giving me a much better direction than just continuing to apply for jobs that aren't calling me back.
THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO MAKE PEOPLE FAIL!!! I went through worker retraining in 2024 and they cut my benefits with 2 months left in my program. When I called they said I "should have known" about the TB program and that it was "too late" to apply. Had to take out loans to finish my training. Watch out for the fine print they don't tell you about!!!!!
I'm sorry you had that experience. You're right that the information isn't always clearly communicated. However, for others reading this thread, please know that if you apply for Training Benefits while you still have at least one week of regular benefits remaining, and your training program is approved, you should be eligible. The system has specific requirements, but it's not designed to make people fail - it's just poorly explained sometimes.
Update: We submitted the Training Benefits application today through eServices! Also uploaded his training plan and enrollment verification from the college. His WorkSource counselor called me back and confirmed the program is CAT-approved. Now we're just hoping there's not a big gap between benefits. Thanks everyone for your help - I'll update when we hear back from ESD.
Victoria Scott
THEY SUCK AT COMMUNICATION!! I never got any email or notification that my tax forms were ready. Had to figure it out on my own. Also if you changed your address during the year sometimes they mail it to your old address which is TOTALLY STUPID. And they don't even tell you about the 1099-G vs W-2 thing when you're filing claims!!!
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Benjamin Johnson
•Actually they do explain this in the handbook they send when you first file for benefits, but I agree they could make it more obvious. The tax implications section is buried pretty deep in that document.
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Katherine Harris
UPDATE: Found it! It was right where you all said - under the UI Claim tab there's a 1099G option. For anyone else looking, once you click on that, you need to select the tax year and then there's a button to view/download the PDF. Thanks everyone for your help!
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Madison Allen
•Glad you found it! Make sure to save a copy for your records. Also, double-check that the amount on the 1099-G matches what you actually received in benefits. ESD occasionally makes mistakes, and it's a hassle to get them corrected after you file taxes.
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