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.

When I got my new job last month I kept filing until I got my first paycheck. Made sure to report all my hours worked even though I wasn't paid yet. I think my last benefit payment was reduced because of the hours, but I still got something since I wasn't full time right away. Just be super honest about the hours - they crosscheck with employers eventually.

For context on adjudication timing: ESD currently has a significant backlog of claims requiring adjudication. The standard timeframe is 4-6 weeks, but can extend to 8-10 weeks during periods of high volume. The adjudicator reviews issues that could affect your eligibility, such as job separation circumstances, availability for work, or potential earnings discrepancies. Regarding your new employment: Continue filing weekly claims until you are working full-time hours (35+ per week). Report all hours worked in the week they are worked, regardless of when payment is received. Your benefits will be reduced according to your reported hours using a specific formula. Once you're working full-time, you can simply stop filing weekly claims - no need to formally close your claim. If you need to verify exactly what issue is being adjudicated, you'll need to speak with an ESD representative. Written correspondence about adjudication issues should appear in your eServices account under Notices/Letters.

My sister had this problem and she just brought her kid to interviews anyway. Some employers were actually impressed by her dedication lol. But I get that's not always possible depending on your kid's age and temperament.

I work for a non-profit that helps with employment barriers, and childcare is definitely one of the biggest issues we see. Here's what I recommend: 1. Apply for Working Connections Child Care through DSHS immediately 2. Contact your local Early Learning Coalition for emergency assistance 3. Ask about the Childcare Aware referral network for temporary options 4. Check if you qualify for Head Start/Early Head Start (if your child is the right age) 5. Document all childcare barriers in your ESD weekly claims - be specific about how it's affecting your job search 6. Attend WorkSource workshops that offer childcare (as someone mentioned) 7. Some churches and community organizations offer free childcare for job seekers - call 211 to find these Most importantly, make sure you're documenting all your efforts to find childcare solutions in your ESD weekly claim notes. This protects you if they question your availability for work.

hey i just got thru to esd this morning! try this: call the main number but then press 2 for spanish (even if u dont speak it) then 0 right away. got me to a person in like 15 mins and they spoke english anyway lol

UPDATE: I tried the Spanish line trick and it actually worked!!! Got through to someone after about 20 minutes on hold. They said my adjudication was waiting on employer verification and they sent a follow-up request. Should be resolved within 7-10 days. THANK YOU everyone for all the suggestions!!!

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.