If all else fails and you can't figure it out from the website, that Claimyr thing really does work. My sister used it when she couldn't reach anyone at Washington ESD and got her questions answered same day.

Isabella, based on what you've described, it sounds like you're approved! The key indicators are: 1) Your claim status shows "Valid" 2) You can see your weekly benefit amount ($385) 3) You're able to file weekly claims without issues. The fact that you haven't received payment yet is totally normal - first payments typically take 2-3 weeks after approval. Since you filed 10 days ago and can see your benefit amount, you should expect your first payment within the next week or so. Just make sure to keep filing your weekly claims on time and check that your direct deposit info is correct. The Washington ESD system definitely doesn't make it obvious when you're approved, but you've got all the right signs!

Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble understanding your paystub deductions, you can also request a detailed breakdown from your HR or payroll department. They're required to explain what each deduction is for. I had to do this when I started my current job because the codes were confusing. Also, keep in mind that if you're a seasonal worker or have gaps in employment, the unemployment insurance you're paying into now could really help you later - I've had to use it twice and was grateful I had been contributing to the system.

One thing worth mentioning is that Washington is one of the few states where employees actually pay into unemployment insurance - in most other states it's just employers who pay. So if you move here from another state, this deduction might be new to you. Also, the 0.58% rate and $68,500 wage base for 2025 are set by the state legislature and can change based on the health of the unemployment trust fund. During economic downturns when more people claim benefits, these rates might go up to keep the system funded.

Quick update for those following this thread - ESD has actually created a specific Identity Theft form to streamline these reports. Go to esd.wa.gov, search for "Unemployment benefits fraud" and look for the secure form upload option. You'll need to provide ID documentation, but it creates a direct case in their system rather than relying on phone calls.

I went through this exact same situation about 8 months ago and it was definitely stressful at first, but I wanted to reassure you that it does get resolved! A few additional tips from my experience: 1) When you call, try to call right at 8am when they open - you'll have the best chance of getting through quickly. 2) Take screenshots of your online ESD account if you can access it (or if one was created without your knowledge) as evidence. 3) Ask them to send you written confirmation via email that they've received your fraud report - this helps if you need to provide proof to your employer or bank later. The whole process took about 6 weeks for me from start to finish, and they were actually pretty good about keeping me updated once I got the initial report filed. You've got this!

Just to follow up on my earlier comment - make sure you mention these specific things in your explanation: 1. It was explicitly a "work trial" or "evaluation period" 2. The excessive hours requirement (60+ vs standard 40) 3. The hostile work environment (screaming/verbal abuse) These factors clearly establish that this was unsuitable work under RCW 50.20.100, which protects your benefits eligibility. Also be sure to answer any ESD messages promptly as delayed responses can further delay your claim processing.

Just wanted to add my experience as someone who went through something similar - I did a 5-day trial at a marketing firm that turned out to be a nightmare (unpaid overtime expectations, no clear job description, toxic management). I reported the earnings honestly and explained it was a trial period that didn't work out. My claim did go into pending for about 10 days while they reviewed it, but I got approved and received backpay for those pending weeks. The key is being completely honest and thorough in your explanation. Document everything about the working conditions now while it's fresh - the 60+ hour expectation and hostile environment you described would definitely qualify as unsuitable work conditions under Washington state law. Don't let the horror stories scare you too much - most legitimate work trial situations get resolved fairly quickly if you provide clear documentation. Good luck with your upcoming interviews!

this happened to me last quarter too.. they do this sometimes but dont tell anyone in advance which is super annoying. my cousin works at a call center and said they get FLOODED with calls whenever this happens because everyone panics lol. definitely just keep doing ur job searches even tho they arent asking for them right now!!!

Just for everyone's future reference, here's what you need to know about these job search suspension weeks: 1. They typically happen 1-2 times per quarter 2. The system will not ask for job search details during these weeks 3. You are still required to perform your 3 job search activities each week 4. Keep your job search log updated even during suspension weeks 5. ESD can audit your job search records for up to a year 6. Notifications about suspension weeks are posted in your ESD message center Hope this helps clear up any confusion!