When I had my standby issue I couldn't get through to ESD on the phone for nearly a week... every morning I'd call right when they opened and still couldn't get through. If you're having trouble, try that Claimyr service I mentioned - it saved me so much frustration and time. What I learned is that it's super important to deal with these issues fast before they turn into bigger problems with your claim!

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I was able to get through to ESD this morning (after many attempts) and explained the situation. They were actually understanding about the confusion. I have to retroactively submit job search activities for the past weeks, but they're giving me time to do it. And I've started the proper standby request process now. Lesson learned - always verify everything in the ESD system and don't just take your employer's word for it!

UPDATE: Just wanted to share that I received my determination letter today - exactly 8 days after speaking with the adjudicator. My claim was approved! The letter says I should see payments within 48 hours for all my back weeks. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help and advice during the wait.

Congratulations on getting your claim approved! 8 days is actually a pretty quick turnaround. Your update gives me hope - I'm in a similar situation waiting for adjudication on my claim. It's so stressful not knowing when (or if) the money will come through, especially when bills keep piling up. Did you get the full backpay for all 5 weeks you were waiting, or did they only approve certain weeks? Thanks for sharing your experience!

MAKE SURE you keep doing your job search activities even while waiting for everything to update!!! I know someone who thought winning their appeal meant they didn't have to do job search for a while (no idea why they thought that) and they got disqualified all over again for a completely different reason. Don't give ESD any excuse!

I went through something similar last year! The system lag is frustrating but totally normal. One thing I'd add to the great advice already given - if you haven't already, I'd recommend requesting a copy of the written appeal decision for your records. Sometimes it takes a few weeks to arrive by mail, but having that official document can be really helpful if any questions come up later about your eligibility. You can usually request it by calling the appeals office directly (they're easier to reach than the main ESD line). Congrats on winning your appeal!

One more thing - if you're getting other benefits like workers comp or disability, it can affect your unemployment eligibility. They don't want you 'double dipping' even if the situations are different.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is that they can also deny you if you're receiving severance pay or other separation payments. Washington ESD considers this as wages for the period it covers, which can delay when your benefits start or affect your weekly benefit amount. If you got a severance package, make sure to report it accurately when you file - they'll find out anyway when they verify your wages with your employer. Better to be upfront about it than have them discover it later and potentially hit you with an overpayment.

Exactly! Just make sure you're still meeting all the job search requirements while you're doing it.

This thread has been super informative! I'm in a similar boat - got offered some consulting work but was terrified to take it because of my unemployment benefits. Now I understand that signing the W9 is just paperwork, and the key is accurate reporting once I actually start working. The distinction between reporting when work is performed vs when paid for 1099 work is crucial - I had no idea about that difference. Going to bookmark this thread for reference when I start my freelance gig!