Here's the official answer from ESD policy: You can't receive PFL and UI benefits for the same week, but you can apply for UI before your PFL ends if your last day of work has already occurred. Your UI claim effective date will be the Sunday of the week after your PFL benefits end. Make sure you answer "no" to "Were you physically able and available for work each day?" on your weekly UI claim for any days you were still on PFL. This prevents overlapping benefits while still getting your claim started early.

I'm sorry to hear about your situation, but it sounds like you're being proactive about the transition. Based on what others have shared, it looks like you can start the UI application process even while still on PFL, as long as your last day of work has already occurred (which it has since your position was eliminated). The key is making sure you don't claim benefits for overlapping weeks. I'd also recommend keeping detailed records of when your PFL ends and when you become available for work, since ESD will need those exact dates. The fact that your employer eliminated your position while you were on protected leave should work in your favor for eligibility. Good luck with everything!

One last thing - if you run into any issues with your claim after the move, document everything. Keep screenshots of your address updates and any correspondence with Washington ESD.

I went through the exact same thing when I moved from Bellingham to Vancouver! The most important thing is updating your address in your SecureAccess Washington account right away - don't wait. Also make sure to register with WorkSourceWA in your new area and update your job search preferences to reflect Spokane opportunities. I was worried it would be complicated but it was actually pretty straightforward once I got everything updated. The key is just being proactive about it. Good luck with your move and job search!

Just want to emphasize again - do NOT go without health insurance while on unemployment. Even if you think you can't afford it, check all your options first. The financial risk isn't worth it.

Also worth checking if your county has any local health programs or clinics that offer services on a sliding fee scale based on income. Even with marketplace coverage, you might find cheaper options for routine care and prescriptions while you're on unemployment. Some counties in Washington have really good programs that can supplement your insurance coverage.

Any updates? Were you able to get through to anyone? Curious if Claimyr worked for you.

That's awesome news about Claimyr working for you! Really glad to hear you got some answers about the employer verification issue. It's so frustrating that ESD doesn't proactively communicate these kinds of roadblocks - you shouldn't have to jump through hoops just to find out what's actually holding up your claim. Definitely smart to still contact your state rep as backup. Hope you see that movement in the next couple days and can finally get your benefits flowing. Thanks for updating us - this info will definitely help other folks in similar situations!

Pro tip: screenshot your weekly claim confirmation page every time you file. Helps if there are ever any disputes about timing or missed claims.

Hey Austin! I totally get the anxiety about waiting for that first payment. I've been there too and it's nerve-wracking when you're counting on the money. From my experience, Washington ESD is pretty consistent with their Tuesday/Wednesday payment schedule once you're in the system. Since your claim shows "paid" status, that's actually a really good sign - it means everything processed correctly on their end. The delay you're seeing is likely just the normal banking processing time. Most people I know with direct deposit see their payments hit Tuesday morning, but it can vary slightly depending on your bank. Hang in there - it should show up soon!