Good luck with your submission! 12 pages sounds thorough - that's exactly the kind of comprehensive documentation ESD likes to see. The fact that you included the WorkSource training certificate is smart too, as it shows you're actively working to improve your employability. I went through a similar verification last year and the waiting period is definitely nerve-wracking, but it sounds like you've covered all the bases. Keep us posted on the outcome - your experience could really help other folks who get hit with these requests!

I just went through this exact same verification request a few months ago and totally understand the panic! Here's what worked for me: I created a chronological timeline showing my job search activities week by week, including screenshots of job applications, any networking events I attended (even virtual ones), and most importantly - I included a simple spreadsheet tracking all my applications with company names, positions, dates applied, and outcomes (no response, rejection, etc.). What really seemed to help was that I also included a brief cover letter explaining that while I hadn't received interviews yet, I remained actively engaged in my job search and was immediately available for work. I mentioned specific steps I was taking to improve my chances like updating my resume, expanding my search radius, and considering related positions in my field. The whole process took about 10 days to review once I submitted everything. Don't stress too much - if you've been legitimately doing your job searches and are truly available for work, the documentation will support that. Just be thorough and honest in your submission!

Great discussion here. The key takeaway is that unemployment insurance costs are spread out over time and across multiple factors. Your individual claim is unlikely to have a dramatic impact on any employer's bottom line, despite what they might tell you.

As someone who's been on both sides of this (filed unemployment and now work in benefits administration), I can confirm what others have said - your former employer is likely exaggerating the impact. Washington ESD's experience rating system is designed to be predictable and fair. A single claim from someone who was legitimately separated typically has minimal effect on an employer's tax rate. The system looks at patterns over multiple years, not individual claims. Don't let them guilt you out of benefits you've earned - that's exactly why the unemployment insurance system exists in the first place.

Update: I just got a letter from OAH with my appeal date! It's scheduled for July 12th, so about 5 weeks from when I filed the appeal. Now I'm super nervous and trying to gather all my documentation. Really appreciate all the advice everyone has shared - I feel much more prepared now. I'm still filing my weekly claims and doing job searches as recommended. Fingers crossed this works out.

Just wanted to add something that really helped me during my appeal - when documenting your case, don't just focus on what changed about your job duties. Also document how these changes affected your ability to do your work successfully. For example, if they suddenly required sales skills you didn't have, note that in your timeline. The judge wants to see that the changes made it unreasonable for you to continue in the position. Also, if you have any written communication where you tried to discuss these concerns with management before quitting, that's gold. It shows you made good faith efforts to resolve the situation first. One more thing - when you get your hearing notice, it should include instructions on how to submit documents in advance. Do this if possible! It makes the hearing go much smoother when everyone has the paperwork already.

Update us on how your claim goes! I'm always curious to hear how smooth the Washington ESD process is for different people.

I went through this exact same worry when I lost my job last year! The anxiety about immigration consequences really got to me, but everyone here is absolutely right - unemployment insurance is completely separate from public charge considerations. The fact that you've been paying into the system through your payroll taxes means you've literally earned these benefits. I ended up filing my Washington ESD claim and had no issues whatsoever. The hardest part was actually getting through their phone system, but the online application worked fine for me. Don't let the fear keep you from getting the financial support you need while job hunting!

anyone know what happens if u just dont pay it back? asking for a friend lol

I'm in a similar situation but with a smaller amount ($3,200). Got my notice in January and have been putting off dealing with it because I'm terrified. Reading through all these responses is actually giving me hope that there might still be options. I was definitely eligible when I applied - lost my job at a hotel during the lockdowns and genuinely needed the help. Now they're saying something about "incorrect wage base period" which makes no sense to me. Has anyone here had success with overpayments related to wage base period issues specifically? I'm going to start the waiver process this week but want to know if this type of issue is even waiverable. Also, for those who got approved - how long did the whole process take from start to finish? I'm trying to plan financially in case this drags on for months. Thanks to everyone sharing their experiences here. It's scary going through this alone and not knowing what to expect.