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I had this same exact question last month! So frustrating right? The job search log will magically appear after your first weekly claim processes. Just make sure you're keeping track of everything - employer name, address, phone number, website, position, how you applied, etc. When I finally got to enter mine, it wanted WAY more info than I expected!
Here's the complete breakdown of when and how the job search log functions: 1. File initial claim (phone or online) 2. Wait for claim to process (typically 1-3 business days) 3. File your first weekly claim (answer YES to completing job searches) 4. After weekly claim processes, job search log appears in eServices 5. Enter all previous job searches retroactively For ALL job search activities, you need: - Date of activity - Type of activity (application, interview, etc.) - Company/organization name - Complete address including zip code - Phone number or email of contact person - Position applied for - Method of contact (online, in-person, etc.) - Results/status Keep all documentation such as confirmation emails as ESD conducts random audits. Failing an audit can result in benefit disqualification and repayment requirements.
UPDATE: Just had my hearing and wanted to let everyone know what happened! My employer actually DID show up - it was someone from HR I've never even met before. But the good news is the judge ruled in my favor right on the call! The HR person couldn't provide any evidence that I quit voluntarily, and I had those emails showing the restructuring that I mentioned. The judge said I should see the decision letter in 7-10 days and then my payments should start processing if nothing else comes up. Thanks everyone for your help and advice!
Congratulations! Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims while you wait for the payments to start. It can sometimes take an extra week or two for them to process all the back payments after the decision is issued.
After you try reaching ESD, if you still don't have an answer, you might want to contact your state representative's office. They often have liaisons who work directly with ESD and can sometimes get answers when individuals can't. Just search for "[your district] state representative" and call their office. I've seen this work for several people with stubborn claims.
Just following up - did you get any resolution to your claim? I was thinking about your situation and remembered that sometimes the first payment can be delayed if your former employer contests your unemployment claim. Did you leave your job under any questionable circumstances? If your employer disputed your eligibility, that would definitely cause delays while ESD investigates.
I used that Claimyr service someone suggested and FINALLY got through to ESD yesterday! Turns out my former employer did contest my claim (even though I was laid off due to budget cuts). The agent said my claim is in adjudication and could take another 3-4 weeks to resolve. She added a note about my financial hardship, but couldn't promise it would speed things up. I'm going to try contacting my state rep too. Thanks for checking back!
To answer your question about prioritization - ESD generally processes claims in the order received, but certain factors can affect prioritization: 1. Hardship cases (imminent eviction, utilities shutoff) may be expedited if you've submitted a hardship request 2. Simple issues are often resolved faster than complex ones 3. Employer response times can significantly impact resolution speed 4. Certain industries or claim types may be grouped together for efficiency Since you've been waiting since January, I'd actually recommend trying to reach them directly. At this point, a quick call could potentially identify if there's a specific issue holding up your claim that could be easily resolved.
UPDATE: You guys were right! I just checked my account this morning and my status has changed from "Adjudication" to "Paid"!!! All my weeks that were pending are now processing for payment. The date change DID mean something was happening. Thank you all for your help and suggestions. For anyone else stuck in adjudication - hang in there and watch for these system changes, they might be good signs!
Jade O'Malley
There's actually a specific situation called a "shared claim" that might apply here, though it's not common. If you are receiving partial L&I benefits and are able to work part-time or with specific restrictions, you might qualify for partial unemployment benefits to supplement your income. However, this requires very specific documentation from both your healthcare provider and employer confirming that: 1) You can work with specific restrictions 2) Your employer cannot accommodate those restrictions 3) You are actively seeking work that meets your restrictions When you apply, make sure to accurately report your L&I benefits as this will affect your UI benefit calculation. I recommend having detailed documentation of your driving restriction from your doctor and confirmation from your employer that they cannot provide suitable work within that restriction before applying.
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Lucas Bey
•Thank you so much for this detailed information! I didn't know about the "shared claim" option. I'll gather all that documentation and try applying. Really appreciate the specific steps to follow.
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Hunter Edmunds
Just checking back - were you able to get through to ESD or L&I? Any updates on your situation?
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Lucas Bey
•I finally got through to L&I yesterday and had a long talk with my case manager. They're going to reassess my benefits since my employer confirmed they don't have any positions within my 15-minute driving restriction. Also talked to my doctor who's going to try me on a different medication that might have fewer side effects. Thanks everyone for the advice - it really helped me figure out what questions to ask!
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