Thanks everyone for all the advice! I've created a detailed spreadsheet now with columns for date, activity type, title, URL, time spent, and what I learned. I'm also planning to mix in actual job applications with the online learning stuff. Better safe than sorry when it comes to ESD requirements!

Just wanted to add my experience from getting audited last month - ESD specifically asked for proof that I actually completed the online activities I logged. They wanted to see browser history, completion certificates, or screenshots showing I finished the videos/courses. For YouTube videos, I now save them to a playlist called "Job Search Activities" and take a screenshot when the video ends. For online courses or workshops, I make sure to complete any quizzes or get completion certificates when available. Also, @Miguel Diaz - regarding your question about mixing activities, I'd recommend no more than 1-2 online resources per week out of your 3 required activities. ESD prefers to see active job searching (applications, networking events, informational interviews) rather than just passive learning. The online stuff is great as a supplement, but don't rely on it entirely for your weekly requirements. One last tip: if you're using resources your WorkSource advisor recommended, mention that in your log entry. Something like "Completed resume workshop video recommended by WorkSource advisor [Name] during 3/28 appointment." This shows you're actively engaged with the reemployment services.

Update: I talked to my new employer's HR department and explained my situation. They actually have a program for new employees that allows a partial advance on the first month's pay! I'll get 40% of my expected monthly earnings next week, which will help me bridge the gap until the full payday. For anyone else facing this issue, definitely ask your employer if they have options - I didn't even know to ask until reading suggestions here. Thanks everyone for your help!

That's fantastic that you found a solution! Your experience really highlights how important it is to communicate with your new employer about financial challenges during the transition period. Many people don't realize that employers often have policies in place specifically for situations like this - whether it's payroll advances, emergency loans, or flexible pay schedules for new hires. It's great that you shared this update because it shows there are practical solutions beyond just the unemployment system. Congratulations on the new job and glad you were able to work out the financial bridge!

The bottom line is that true passive rental income - where you're just collecting rent and not actively managing the property - is fine and won't reduce your unemployment benefits. Keep reporting it for transparency, but it shouldn't affect your weekly benefit amount. If Washington ESD ever questions it, just explain that it's passive investment income, not earnings from work.

I work as a benefits counselor and see this confusion all the time. Just to reinforce what others have said - rental income is classified as "unearned income" by Washington ESD and won't reduce your weekly benefit amount. The fact that you've been reporting it correctly on your weekly claims shows you're doing everything right. The system distinguishes between income from employment/self-employment (which does get deducted) versus passive income like rentals, social security, pensions, etc. Keep doing exactly what you're doing and don't stress about it!

It's not too late to change your tax withholding preference. Log into your eServices account, go to your claim summary, and look for the option to update your tax withholding preference. The standard withholding is 10% for federal taxes (WA has no income tax). Making this change won't affect what you've already received, but it will help reduce your tax liability for future payments.

Just wanted to add a tip for anyone who might be in a similar situation - if you're still collecting benefits and want to avoid a big tax surprise, you can also make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS using Form 1040ES. This is especially helpful if you're in a higher tax bracket or have other income sources. I learned this the hard way my first year on unemployment! Also, keep all your 1099-G forms organized - you'll need them if you get audited down the road.

just want to add that PFML usually pays more than unemployment (like 90% of ur wage up to a cap) so if u qualify for both its usually better $$ to go with PFML. then u can save ur unemployment weeks for later if u need them

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! Based on your advice, I'm going to schedule an appointment with my doctor to get the proper documentation first, then make a decision. Since my condition might only need treatment for a couple months, it sounds like PFML might be the better option financially, and then I can switch back to unemployment if needed while job searching. Really appreciate all the insights!