For anyone who still needs to reach Washington ESD about their claim closure or has other questions, I'll mention Claimyr one more time since it's been such a game-changer for actually getting through to speak with agents. Way less stressful than the traditional calling approach.

Just wanted to add one more important tip - make sure to take a screenshot of your final weekly claim submission showing that you reported your return to work. It's good backup documentation in case there are ever any questions about when and how you properly closed your claim. I always save screenshots of important ESD submissions just in case their system has issues or records get mixed up somehow.

This thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm new to unemployment benefits and was really overwhelmed by all the job search requirements. Reading everyone's experiences has made me feel so much more confident about what I need to do. I especially appreciate learning that each individual application counts as a separate contact - I was worried that applying to multiple jobs at the same company might only count as one contact. One thing I'm still curious about - does anyone know if follow-up calls or emails after submitting an application count as additional job search activities? Like if I apply online and then call a week later to check on my application status, would that be two separate contacts or just one? I want to make sure I'm maximizing my legitimate activities while still being professional with employers. Also, the tip about using a spreadsheet to track everything is gold! I'm definitely setting that up today. Better to be over-prepared than scrambling if I get audited.

An AI answer to the question "Does receipt of a company's job denial email count as a job search activity?" led me to this site, suggesting the answer is here. Ctrl+F for the word 'denial' does not find it on this page. Also, esd.wa.gov doesn't state either way. If a job seeker receives a job denial email from a company, does it count as an authorized weekly job search activity?

This is such valuable information! I've been running a small graphic design business and had my main contract end abruptly two months ago. I've been scrambling to find new clients but the market is really tough right now. I set up my business as an S-Corp and have been paying myself through payroll, so it sounds like I might actually qualify. Going to dig through my tax documents tonight and see if I can find those unemployment tax payments everyone mentioned. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences here - makes this whole process seem less intimidating.

I've been through a similar situation with my web development business last year. The key thing that helped me was understanding that Washington ESD treats business owners who pay themselves through payroll just like any other employee for unemployment purposes. Since you mentioned you have an LLC and your accountant handles things, definitely check if you've been classified as an employee of your LLC for tax purposes. If you've been paying unemployment taxes on your wages, you should be eligible. Also, start documenting your job search efforts now - networking events, client proposals, even informal conversations about potential work. The adjudication process can be lengthy, but having everything organized upfront really speeds things up. Don't let the complexity discourage you from applying if you've been paying into the system!

As someone who recently moved to Washington state for work, this thread has been incredibly eye-opening about the unemployment system here. I had no idea that you could file multiple claims without restrictions - that's actually pretty progressive compared to some other states I've lived in. The detailed breakdown of requirements and the step-by-step advice from people who've actually been through the process multiple times is invaluable. I'm bookmarking this entire discussion for future reference, especially the tips about document preparation and the Claimyr service for getting through to ESD. It's refreshing to see a community where people share practical, real-world advice rather than just regurgitating government website info. Thanks to everyone who contributed their experiences!

This has been such a helpful discussion to read through! I'm currently employed but work in a pretty volatile industry, so it's really reassuring to know that Washington doesn't put arbitrary limits on unemployment filings. The collective wisdom here about keeping detailed employment records, preparing for identity verification, and having backup contact methods like Claimyr is exactly the kind of practical advice that makes all the difference when you're actually dealing with these situations. It's also encouraging to see how supportive this community is - people sharing their real experiences, both good and frustrating, gives such a better picture than just reading the official ESD website. Really appreciate everyone taking the time to share their knowledge!

Don't forget to check if your employer offers COBRA for health insurance continuation - you'll have 60 days from your separation date to elect coverage, but it can be expensive (often $500-800/month). If COBRA is too costly, start researching Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) or marketplace plans through wahealthplanfinder.org now. You don't want to be scrambling for health coverage while also dealing with unemployment paperwork. Some people qualify for special enrollment periods due to job loss, which can get you covered faster than waiting for open enrollment. Having health insurance sorted out is one less thing to stress about while you're between jobs!

Just wanted to add something that really helped me when I was in a similar situation - start gathering all your employment documents NOW while you still have access to your work systems. Make copies of your employment contract, any performance reviews, and especially any documentation about the layoff decision (emails, meeting notes, official announcements). Sometimes ESD asks for additional verification, and it's much easier to provide this stuff when you still have your work email and computer access rather than trying to get it from HR after you're gone. Also, if you have direct deposit set up with your employer, double-check that your bank account info is correct since you'll want to use the same account for unemployment benefits. One small typo in your routing number can delay your first payment by weeks while they mail you a paper check instead.