To directly answer your original questions: 1. Yes, Washington does deduct pensions from unemployment benefits when the pension is from a base year employer 2. No, they don't deduct pensions if they're from a completely different employer outside your base year 3. No, it's not just the week you receive the payment - they prorate it across all weeks When you report your pension, ESD will ask for documentation showing the monthly amount and may ask for information about contribution percentages. They'll calculate the reduction and apply it automatically to future payments. One more thing - if your pension amount changes at any point, you need to report that change to ESD right away.

I went through something similar when I got laid off from my state job in 2022. One thing that might help reduce the financial impact - if you haven't already, check if your pension allows for any temporary suspension or deferment options while you're unemployed. Some pension plans (especially government ones) have provisions that let you delay payments for a few months if you're actively job searching. It won't eliminate the deduction issue entirely, but it could give you some breathing room while you find new employment. Also, make sure when you do report the pension to ESD that you emphasize the employee contribution percentage - that 35% you mentioned could save you about $150 per week in deductions. Good luck with the job search!

Update us on how it goes! There are probably other people in similar situations who could benefit from hearing about your experience with the process.

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through a similar situation last year. I was fired from my retail job for missing too many shifts due to childcare issues when my babysitter kept canceling last minute. I was terrified I wouldn't qualify since it was technically attendance-related, but I filed immediately anyway. Washington ESD approved my claim after about 5 weeks of review because I could show I was trying to find alternative childcare and had legitimate reasons for the absences. The key is having documentation and being completely honest during the adjudication interview. Don't give up hope - even attendance-related terminations can qualify if the circumstances show you weren't being willfully negligent. Good luck with your claim!

Make sure to update us on how this gets resolved! These situations are unfortunately common and it helps others to know what worked for you.

This is absolutely infuriating! I went through something similar last year and it's like they design these systems to be as confusing and stressful as possible. The fact that you have to hunt through old notices to figure out why they're taking your money is ridiculous. When I had my intercept issue, I found that going to the local DSHS office in person was way more effective than trying to call. The phone system is a nightmare, but the in-person staff actually seemed to care and could pull up your case immediately. Bring literally every piece of paperwork you have - custody orders, school enrollment records, medical records showing the kids on your insurance, anything that proves they live with you. Also document everything - take photos of all the paperwork you bring and get names of who you talk to. Good luck and don't let them wear you down!

i think u should just keep claiming and not tell them about ur job till u get paid lol thats what my roomate did

Congratulations on landing the job! Just want to add one more tip that really helped me - when you file your weekly claims during those two weeks before starting, make sure to keep detailed records of everything you report. Screenshot your weekly claim confirmations and save any correspondence from ESD. This saved me when there was confusion later about my benefit period. Also, once you start working, be very precise about reporting your work hours - round to the nearest quarter hour if needed, but don't guess. ESD can be pretty strict about accuracy, so it's better to be overly detailed than to leave anything unclear. Good luck with the new position!

Another option to consider: Some banks offer small short-term loans or advances for customers with direct deposit history. If you've had your unemployment benefits direct deposited, your bank might offer something to help bridge the gap. Credit unions especially tend to have more flexible options than big banks. Also, if you've been doing your job search activities through WorkSource, they sometimes have funds specifically to help with employment transition barriers - which could include the gap between starting work and first paycheck. Definitely ask about this specifically when you talk to your specialist.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago when I started a state job that paid monthly. It's incredibly stressful! Here's what I found out: once you start working full-time, your UI benefits stop immediately regardless of when you get paid. But there are some things that helped me survive that gap: 1) Many food banks don't require proof of income and can help stretch your grocery budget, 2) Some utility companies have hardship programs that can defer payments, and 3) If you're renting, talk to your landlord ASAP - many are willing to work with you if you're honest about starting a new job and when you'll get paid. Also, see if your new employer has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - some offer emergency financial assistance or can connect you with resources. The first month is tough but you'll get through it!