Final reminder - if Washington ESD does approve you for benefits while in school, they can always review your case later. Make sure you're completely honest about your availability and school schedule. Getting caught in a misrepresentation can lead to serious overpayment issues.

I'm in a somewhat similar situation - considering going back to school for a different program. From what I've read here and researched myself, it seems like the key is really whether you can demonstrate you're still "able and available" for work. Have you looked into whether your nursing program has any clinical rotations or externships that might count as job-related training? Sometimes those programs have different rules. Also, definitely document everything with your current employer about the schedule conflict - if they truly can't accommodate ANY flexibility for your education, that might strengthen your case. The constructive discharge angle mentioned earlier could be worth exploring too.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more confident about filing my weekly claims now. Going to set up a reminder and file my first one this Sunday. Really appreciate this community!

Just wanted to add that you should also keep track of your weekly benefit amount and make sure it's consistent from week to week. If you notice any sudden changes in your payment amount, that could indicate an issue with how you answered the weekly questions or a problem with your claim that needs attention. I caught an error once where they were deducting taxes differently than expected, and addressing it early saved me from a bigger headache later. Also, make sure your direct deposit information is correct in your account - nothing worse than filing on time but having payment issues because of outdated banking info!

Thanks everyone for all this information. As someone who might be facing this choice soon, it's really helpful to understand that these are mutually exclusive benefits in Washington state. Better to know now than find out the hard way later.

I've been following this thread and wanted to add some perspective as someone who works in benefits counseling. The frustration here is totally understandable - the system really does put people in impossible positions. One thing that might help is looking into local disability advocacy organizations or legal aid clinics. Many offer free consultations to help people understand their options and navigate the application process. They can also help you understand if there are any other safety net programs you might qualify for during gaps in coverage. The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) also has caseworkers who can do benefits planning - they can walk you through all available programs and help you strategize the best approach for your specific situation.

I'm currently going through this same process and wanted to share what I've learned. My Commissioner's Review has been pending for about 2 months now. One thing that's helped me mentally is setting up a realistic timeline - based on what everyone's shared here, I'm planning for 4-6 months minimum. A few practical tips that have helped me: - I set up automatic transfers to move any small amounts to savings when possible, even $10-20 - Applied for utility assistance programs before I got behind on bills - Started a simple spreadsheet tracking my appeal timeline and job search activities - Found local food banks and community resources as backup options The waiting is absolutely brutal, but try to use this time to build as many safety nets as possible. Also, if you haven't already, document EVERYTHING about your original job separation - dates, emails, witness contacts, etc. Sometimes people remember additional details during the long wait that could strengthen their case. Hang in there! The system is slow but don't give up hope.

I went through the Commissioner's Review process in early 2024 and it took exactly 19 weeks for my case. What really helped me during the wait was creating a "survival budget" - I cut everything non-essential and found every possible assistance program I qualified for. One thing I wish I'd known earlier: if you have any new evidence or documentation that wasn't submitted during your OAH hearing, you CAN still submit it to the Commissioner's Review Office. I found an old email from my supervisor that supported my case and submitted it 6 weeks into the review process. Also, try calling ESD early in the morning (right at 8 AM) or late in the afternoon after 4 PM - I had better luck getting through during those times. The wait times were still long but at least I didn't get disconnected as often. Keep filing those weekly claims no matter what, and if you're approved, you'll get backpay for every week you properly claimed. The lump sum was a lifesaver when it finally came through. Stay strong - I know how exhausting this process is!

The bottom line is Washington ESD has multiple ways to detect unreported work. Data matching, employer reports, audits, tips from other people, etc. The risk of getting caught is high and the penalties are severe. Always report all work on your weekly claims.

I went through something similar last year and made the mistake of not reporting some freelance work I was doing. Washington ESD found out during their quarterly wage matching process and I had to pay back about $2,800 plus a penalty. The stress wasn't worth it at all. My advice is to call them immediately (maybe use that Claimyr service others mentioned since their phone lines are impossible) and voluntarily disclose the unreported work. They're usually more lenient when you come forward yourself rather than them catching you. Also, even if the work seems "minor" or irregular, it ALL needs to be reported - there's no minimum threshold. Better to be overly cautious than face the penalties later.