Once your claim is approved, check if you're eligible for the waiting week waiver. Normally there's a one-week waiting period before benefits begin, but depending on your circumstances and when you filed, that waiting week might be waived. Also, make sure you understand the job search requirements going forward - currently it's 3 job search activities per week that you need to document. The WorkSource workshops count as activities and can be done online. Staying on top of these requirements will prevent any interruptions once your benefits start flowing.

I've been dutifully reporting my 3 job search activities every week even though no payments were coming through. Didn't want to fall behind on that requirement in case they eventually approved my claim. I've been doing a mix of applications and WorkSource workshops. Just hoping they approve me and release all those back payments soon - I'm down to my last $43 and rent is due next week.

Can I ask what your claim was stuck on for those 6 weeks? Mine's been in adjudication for almost 5 weeks now and I'm losing my mind. Did you do anything special to get it moving?

Mine was stuck in adjudication too! They were verifying my reason for separation since my employer contested it initially. I called about 20 times over those 6 weeks but only got through twice. Second time I spoke with someone who actually escalated it properly and it was resolved within 3 days after that. Persistence was key in my case. Good luck with yours!

my brother got his contractor license while on unemployment last year and he said it was fine because he was still applying to jobs. but when he started his first project he told esd and they reduced his weekly amount. i think its all about being honest with them

One other important consideration: if you're planning to use the Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) through WorkSource, you need to apply for that specifically. It allows you to work full-time on your business while receiving unemployment, but you must be accepted into the program first. Not everyone qualifies, but it's worth looking into if you're serious about starting your construction business. The program includes training and resources for new business owners as well.

has anyone noticed that ESD notifications show up in spam folders sometimes??? might be worth checking there too. happened to my cousin last month

Based on what you've found out about the child support deduction, I wanted to add that you should make sure to print or save screenshots of your payment details from eServices. These will be important documentation if you need to request a modification from DCS. Also, when you do connect with DCS, ask them about the "need-based formula" - there's a calculation they use that might allow for a lower withholding percentage based on your basic living expenses.

I successfully appealed an $8,300 overpayment last year. The key was proving that I made a reasonable effort to comply with ESD's instructions. I brought printouts of all my weekly claim confirmations and highlighted the confusing language that led to my mistake. One suggestion that really helped me: request your complete claim file through a public records request before your hearing. This will show all the notes and communications in your case. I found that an ESD agent had actually noted my confusion about reporting requirements in their system, which supported my case that the error wasn't my fault.

whatever you do dont wait until the last minute!! my freind thought he had more time and his deadline passed and then they started taking money from his tax returns