Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! Sounds like I should just go ahead and file a new claim online and not overthink it. Appreciate all the advice about keeping good records and being thorough with employment history.

Just wanted to add that when you file your new claim, make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and banking info for direct deposit ready. The application will ask for all of that upfront. Also, if you worked in multiple states since your last claim, you might need to file an interstate claim instead - the system will guide you through that if it applies. Good luck with your new application!

Just want to echo what everyone else has said - this is such a common problem! I went through the exact same frustration a couple months back. The ESD email links are completely broken and their website integration with WorkSource is terrible. One thing I'd add to all the great advice here: if you're doing a phone/virtual appointment, make sure you test your phone or computer setup beforehand. My first appointment got marked as a no-show because I couldn't get the virtual meeting link to work properly and by the time I figured it out, the appointment window had passed. Had to reschedule and it delayed everything. Also, during the actual appointment, they'll walk you through setting up your WorkSource profile properly and show you how to use their job search tools. It's actually not as useless as I expected - some of the resources are genuinely helpful for finding jobs in WA state. Just make sure to take notes because there's a lot of information and you'll want to remember it for your ongoing job search requirements. Good luck everyone dealing with this mess of a system!

I'm dealing with this exact same issue right now! Got the ESD email yesterday about scheduling a WorkSource appointment and have been clicking that broken link for hours. So relieved to find this thread and learn that I need to go to WorkSourceWA.com instead - no wonder I couldn't find anything on the ESD site! Quick question for those who've been through this: do I need to bring any specific documents to the appointment, or is it more of an informational session? My deadline is next week and I want to make sure I'm fully prepared. Thanks so much for all the helpful info everyone has shared here!

Thanks everyone for all the detailed responses! This has cleared up a lot of confusion for me. I feel much more prepared to handle the tax side when I officially start my business.

This has been such an informative thread! I'm in a similar situation - currently on unemployment but planning to start freelancing more seriously next year. One thing I'm still unclear on: when you transition from being an unemployment claimant to being an employer who pays these taxes, is there any overlap period I need to worry about? Like if I'm still collecting benefits while building up my client base, then eventually hire someone - do I need to notify ESD about the change in my status somehow?

Final update from my experience: yes it's possible, yes it's complicated, but don't let that stop you from pursuing benefits you're legally entitled to. Just be prepared for extra scrutiny during the application process and keep detailed records of everything.

I'm actually going through a similar situation right now, though I'm on SSDI for a different condition. One thing I learned from my caseworker is that Washington ESD will likely ask for a detailed explanation of your work capacity during the adjudication process. They might even request documentation from your doctor about what types of work you can perform and for how many hours. The key is being able to demonstrate that while you have limitations, you're still capable of and actively seeking suitable employment within those limitations. My advice would be to gather any documentation about your previous work accommodations and be prepared to explain exactly what type of part-time work you can realistically do. It sounds like you have a good case since you were already working before the layoff.

This thread is super helpful! I was also confused about some unemployment terminology. Glad to know I'm not the only one who gets mixed up by all the different terms people use.

I'm new to unemployment benefits and this whole thread has been really educational! I was also hearing confusing terminology at my local WorkSource office. It sounds like the key takeaway is that Washington ESD doesn't officially use "sub pay" - it's probably just informal language people use. I'm glad to see there are resources like that Claimyr service for when you need to actually speak with someone, since I've heard the phone lines are nearly impossible to get through on. Thanks everyone for clarifying all the official benefit types vs. the slang terms!