Update? Were you able to reach someone at ESD? If your claim is related to a construction management layoff, they might also be verifying your work hours across multiple projects. Construction claims can be more complex because they often review multiple employers during the base year.

That's fantastic news! I'm so glad you were able to get through and get some answers. It's really frustrating that employers sometimes try to contest legitimate layoffs, but it sounds like you have solid documentation to prove your case. Hopefully this gets resolved quickly and you can finally get those weeks of benefits you've been waiting for. Thanks for updating us - it gives hope to others dealing with similar issues!

btw another option nobody mentioned is deferring student loans while ur unemployed. helped me survive the gap between benefits. just saying

As someone who just went through the TB application process successfully (started in January 2025), I want to emphasize how important it is to get started IMMEDIATELY even with just one week left. Here's what saved me: 1. I applied online through eServices the same day I realized I was cutting it close 2. Called WorkSource first thing Monday morning - they were much easier to reach than ESD and helped me gather the labor market data I needed 3. Got a letter from my chosen training program (community college IT program) confirming enrollment dates and program details 4. Submitted everything within 3 days The key thing that worked in my favor was demonstrating "good cause" for the late application - I explained that I was unaware of the deadline requirement and had been actively job searching until I realized additional training was necessary. Even if your regular benefits end, DON'T PANIC. Keep filing your weekly claims and get that application submitted. The worst they can say is no, but if you don't try, you definitely won't get approved. IT Security is definitely considered in-demand, especially with all the cybersecurity issues lately. One last tip: when you call ESD (or use Claimyr), specifically ask to be transferred to the "Training Benefits unit" rather than general customer service. They're more knowledgeable about the specific requirements and deadlines.

Update for anyone still following - I finally got through to Washington ESD and confirmed that I have been paying voluntary contributions through my business. Going to start the application process this week.

Just wanted to add that if you're self-employed and considering applying, make sure you understand the base period requirements. Washington ESD looks at your earnings from 5 quarters ago, not your most recent income. So even if your business just failed recently, they'll be calculating benefits based on what you earned over a year ago. This caught me off guard when I applied - I thought they'd use my recent high-earning quarters, but the system doesn't work that way. It's worth checking what your base period earnings look like before you invest time in the application process.

So happy for you! It's such a relief when these things finally get sorted out. Thanks for updating us - gives me hope that the system does eventually work even if it takes way too long!

Congratulations on getting it resolved! This whole thread is such a perfect example of how broken the ESD system can be - approved claim but disqualified weeks, no clear communication about why, and having to jump through hoops just to talk to someone who can actually help. It's ridiculous that people have to go through weeks of financial stress because of technical glitches and poor system design. At least your story gives hope to others dealing with the same nightmare. The fact that it took one agent 5 minutes to manually fix what the automated system couldn't handle for 6 weeks really says everything about their priorities.

Welcome to the community! I'm new here but have been dealing with similar ESD issues. Reading through your entire journey from the initial hearing stress to the actual hearing experience has been incredibly helpful. It's amazing how much preparation and documentation is required, but it sounds like you really did everything right. The fact that you tried to work with your employer first, gathered all the medical evidence, and could clearly explain why your children needed your direct care shows you understand exactly what ESD looks for in these cases. As someone just starting to navigate this system, your detailed sharing about what Judge Ray was like and how the hearing process worked is invaluable. Really hoping your decision comes back positive - you clearly deserve approval based on everything you've shared. Thank you for being so open about your experience, it's helping other families like mine understand what we might be facing!

I'm new to this community but have been reading through all the advice and updates on your case - what an emotional rollercoaster! As someone who's also dealing with ESD issues (though different circumstances), I'm really impressed by how methodically you approached your hearing preparation. The timeline you created showing work conflicts, the medical documentation, and especially having those emails proving you tried to get accommodations first - that's exactly the kind of evidence ESD needs to see. Judge Ray's reputation seems mixed based on the comments here, but it sounds like being thoroughly prepared made all the difference. The waiting period for the decision must be agonizing, but from everything you've shared, you presented a textbook case for good cause under the disability caregiving provisions. Really hoping you get positive news soon and thank you for sharing your entire journey - it's incredibly helpful for other parents facing similar impossible choices between work and caring for our kids.