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This whole conversation makes me glad I'm just focusing on my job search instead of trying to juggle gig work too. Seems like a lot of extra complications.
One last thing - make sure your gig work doesn't put you over the maximum earnings threshold for the week. If you earn too much, you might lose your entire UI benefit for that week.
Generally if your earnings exceed your weekly benefit amount, you won't receive any UI for that week. But there might be some allowances built in.
I've been doing some research on this and from what I can find on the Washington ESD website, there's actually a partial earnings disregard. It's not a simple dollar-for-dollar reduction. I believe you can earn up to 25% of your weekly benefit amount before any deduction, then they subtract the remaining earnings from your benefit. But the exact calculation is complex and I'd recommend calling to confirm your specific situation.
One last tip - keep detailed records of everything. All your medical clearance paperwork, disability end dates, job search activities, everything. Washington ESD loves documentation.
Just wanted to add that when you do file your claim, make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready. Washington ESD will ask for specific details about your last employer including dates of employment, reason for separation, and wages earned. Since your job was eliminated while you were on disability, that should actually work in your favor - involuntary job loss is typically straightforward for unemployment eligibility. The fact that you're medically cleared to return to work is the key piece that will help your case.
The anxiety around job search documentation is real but try not to let it consume you. Focus your energy on actually finding work rather than stressing about perfect record keeping. Document what you can and keep applying for jobs.
I completely understand the anxiety around documentation - I went through the same thing when I first started claiming. Here's what has worked for me: I created a simple Google Sheet with columns for date, company name, position title, how I applied (Indeed, company website, etc.), and any confirmation info. For applications without confirmation emails, I take a screenshot of the "application submitted" page or the job posting itself. I also save job postings as PDFs in case they get removed later. The key is consistency - do it right after each application while it's fresh in your mind. You're already doing great by being proactive about this!
This is such a helpful system! I love the idea of using Google Sheets - that way I can access it from anywhere and it's automatically backed up. The PDF saving tip is brilliant too, I never thought about job postings getting removed. I'm definitely going to set this up today. Thanks for sharing what works for you!
Just want to add that I did something similar in 2024 and my experience was actually pretty smooth. I think it depends a lot on which field you're going into and whether ESD considers it "in demand." I got approved for retraining in healthcare IT after about 4 weeks. Make sure ALL your documentation is perfect - I included labor market info from WorkSource showing the job growth in my new field compared to my old one. Also found it helpful to meet with a WorkSource counselor first who helped me prepare my application. They know exactly what ESD is looking for!
As someone who just went through this process last year, I'd strongly recommend getting your application in ASAP! I was in a similar situation - laid off from manufacturing and wanted to switch to cybersecurity. The whole process took about 5 weeks for approval, but it was totally worth it. One tip that really helped me: when you fill out the application, be super specific about why warehouse jobs are declining in your area. I included actual statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing job losses in my old field vs. projected growth in IT. Also, make sure your chosen program leads to industry-recognized certifications - ESD loves that because it shows clear employability. Once approved, you're golden - no more job searches while in training, and you can focus 100% on your studies. The relief was incredible! IT is definitely considered "in demand" so you should have a good shot at approval. Best of luck!
Dylan Mitchell
Just remember to check your SecureAccess Washington account regularly for updates on your claim status. Washington ESD will post their determination there first, and you'll get a written notice in the mail with the full explanation of their decision.
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Fatima Al-Suwaidi
•I've been checking daily! Hopefully I'll see good news soon. Thanks again everyone for all the support and information.
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Olivia Harris
I went through a similar misconduct review with Washington ESD about 8 months ago. My employer claimed I was fired for poor attitude and insubordination, but it was really just disagreements about unrealistic deadlines and understaffing issues. Washington ESD approved my benefits after about 3 weeks of review. They seemed to understand that workplace conflict doesn't automatically equal misconduct. The key thing that helped my case was showing that I tried to resolve issues through proper channels first - like emailing HR about my concerns. Do you have any documentation of trying to address the childcare/scheduling issues with your employer before they escalated?
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CosmicCruiser
•That's really helpful to know! I do have some text messages with my supervisor about the childcare situation affecting my schedule, and I sent an email to HR once asking about flexible start times. I didn't think to save those but I might still have them in my phone. Should I gather all that documentation in case Washington ESD asks for it during their review?
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