My advice is don't stress too much about it. I know easier said than done when you need the money, but fact finding is pretty routine and most people get approved. Just keep filing your weekly claims and it'll work out.

I went through fact finding last year and it was nerve-wracking, but here's what I learned: the status usually means they're verifying information with your employer or checking wage records. The frustrating part is they don't always tell you upfront what they're investigating. In my case, it took about 4 weeks before I got a determination letter saying my benefits were approved. The key things are: keep filing your weekly claims (you'll get backpay if approved), check both your online account AND physical mail daily for any requests, and try not to panic - most legitimate claims do get approved eventually. I know the financial stress is real, but hang in there!

Final update: Got my determination letter today and I'm approved! Thanks everyone for the explanations and support. The whole process took exactly 3 weeks from filing to approval.

For those still waiting on their determination, I found it helpful to check my account online regularly through the Washington ESD website. Sometimes the status updates there before you get the letter in the mail. Also, make sure you respond quickly if they request any additional documents - that can speed up the process significantly.

Keep us posted on how the meeting goes! Situations like this happen more often than people realize.

I went through something similar when my company was acquired two years ago. The waiting period is definitely the hardest part - not knowing if you'll have a job or what the terms will be. In my case, the new owners actually improved our benefits package, but I know that's not always how it goes. One thing I learned is that Washington ESD considers each situation individually, so having good documentation of your current job terms really matters if you do need to file a claim. The fact that you've been there 3 years and never collected UI before should work in your favor. Try to stay calm during next week's meeting and ask specific questions about salary, hours, and responsibilities if they do make you an offer.

Perfect summary. Documentation and consistency will keep you in compliance with Washington ESD requirements. Good luck with your job search!

I've been in a similar situation and learned the hard way that Washington ESD takes the "actively seeking work" requirement very seriously. The 3 weekly activities rule is non-negotiable, but the good news is that activities are broader than just job applications. I've found success mixing applications with LinkedIn outreach, attending virtual career events, and even informational interviews. The key is keeping detailed records - I use a simple Excel sheet with date, company/contact, activity type, and any follow-up actions. One tip: if you're in a specialized field, don't be afraid to reach out directly to companies that might not have current openings but could be interested in your skills later.

Yeah, I know people who missed weeks and couldn't get paid for them later. Better to file every week just in case.

Based on your $52k salary, you're likely looking at around $650-750 per week in unemployment benefits, depending on how your wages were distributed across quarters in your base period. Washington ESD uses your highest earning quarter from the base period (typically the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters) and divides that by 26 to calculate your weekly benefit amount. Since you mentioned working overtime, that should help boost your calculation since all reported wages count. Just make sure to file as soon as possible since there's a waiting week and benefits don't start until you actually file your claim. Good luck with your job search!