UPDATE: You all were right! I finally got through to ESD this morning after trying for days. The agent explained that my claim is being reviewed by two different specialists - one handling an employment verification issue and another reviewing my availability for work. The different dates were showing depending on which part of my case was being updated. She said I should expect a decision within 7-10 business days! Such a relief to finally understand what's happening. Thanks everyone for your help and sharing your experiences!

So glad you got through and got real answers! This is exactly why calling ESD directly (even though it's a pain) is so important. Your experience perfectly illustrates what many of us have been saying - those date changes usually DO mean progress is happening, even when it doesn't feel like it. Having two specialists working on different parts of your claim actually sounds like they're being thorough. Hoping you get good news in those 7-10 days! Keep us posted on how it goes.

I was in a similar situation last year working seasonal jobs. One thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of my work search activities from day one - Washington ESD can ask for this information at any time during your claim. Also, don't be discouraged if your first payment takes a few weeks. There's usually a waiting period for the first week, and processing can be slow during peak filing times. With your $18k in earnings, you should definitely qualify. Good luck with everything!

Just wanted to add that Washington state actually has pretty clear guidelines for seasonal workers - you're definitely eligible as long as you meet the basic requirements. I've been doing seasonal work (summer camp counselor and winter retail) for three years now and file for benefits during my gap periods without any issues. The $18k you earned should easily qualify you for benefits. One tip: when you file online, there's a section where you can explain your work pattern - mention that you do seasonal work but are actively seeking temporary employment during the off-season. This helps establish that you're genuinely available for work and not just waiting around for your next seasonal position. Also, don't stress too much about the phone system - the online filing process is actually pretty straightforward and you can usually get everything done without having to call.

This thread has been incredibly helpful! I was in the exact same boat as you - just got approved and was totally confused about the work registration requirement. Reading through everyone's experiences here, it sounds like the WorkSource registration at worksourcewa.com really is the main thing Washington ESD is looking for. I'm planning to set aside an hour this evening to get it done properly. It's reassuring to know that even if you're a few days late, they're usually understanding as long as you're making the effort. Thanks to everyone who shared their knowledge here - you probably saved a bunch of us from stressing out unnecessarily!

Just want to echo what everyone else is saying - this thread is a lifesaver! I was in the same exact position a few weeks ago, completely lost about the work registration thing. The WorkSource registration at worksourcewa.com really is straightforward once you know what you're doing. One thing I'd add is don't stress too much about making your profile perfect right away - you can always go back and update your resume and skills later. The important thing is just getting registered within that 7-day window so you stay compliant with the requirements. Good luck everyone!

I'm also dealing with a similar international unemployment situation right now! Got laid off from my Seattle-based remote job while visiting family in the UK (I have British citizenship through my parents). Filed my claim about 4 weeks ago and it's been in adjudication ever since. What's been most helpful for me is staying super organized with documentation. I created a folder with my British passport, a detailed letter explaining my work authorization and availability for US employment, screenshots of job applications to both US and UK companies, and even flight search results showing I could return to the US within 48 hours if needed for an in-person interview. The financial stress during this waiting period is brutal, but I keep reminding myself that the 2023 rule change was specifically designed to help people in situations like ours. I've been focusing heavily on US remote job applications since that seems to be what ESD wants to see for "availability" purposes. One thing I learned from calling the general ESD line (after many attempts) is that they can see when you upload documents to your account, and it does get flagged for the adjudicator. So definitely keep adding anything that supports your case! Hang in there - sounds like you're doing everything right and the rule should be on your side. This process is just painfully slow unfortunately.

I'm dealing with almost the exact same situation! Got laid off from my remote job at a Vancouver, WA company while visiting my girlfriend's family in Japan (I have a Japanese work visa). Filed my claim about 2 weeks ago and it went straight into adjudication when they detected my overseas IP address. The uncertainty is really getting to me, especially reading about 6-8 week wait times. I've been religiously documenting my job search activities and uploaded my work visa documentation, but the financial stress while waiting is intense. What's interesting is that I've actually had more interview opportunities applying to US-based remote positions than I did when I was physically in Washington. Makes me feel more confident about proving my "availability" for US work, even from abroad. I've been following this thread closely and really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences. It's comforting to know I'm not alone in this situation, even though the waiting game is brutal. The 2023 rule change gives me hope, but man, the processing times are rough when you're already dealing with job loss stress. Keep us posted on how your case progresses - I think we're all rooting for each other here!

Don't give up hope! I was in your exact situation about 8 months ago. Here's what saved me: I immediately enrolled in a medical coding certification program through my local community college that was approved for Worker Retraining benefits. Not only did I get to continue receiving unemployment payments while training, but the program was completely free except for textbooks (about $200 total). The certification took 6 months and I found a remote job within 2 weeks of completing it. The key is acting fast - you need to get enrolled and get your Training Benefits approved BEFORE your regular UI runs out. Contact both WorkSource and your community college's financial aid office this week. They can walk you through which programs qualify and help you apply for everything at once. Even if you're not sure what field you want to train in, they have career counselors who can help match your skills to in-demand jobs in your area. Also, while you're getting that sorted out, definitely apply for SNAP benefits now. The application process can take a few weeks and you'll want that safety net in place. You've got this!

I just went through this exact situation 6 months ago! Here's what worked for me: First, definitely keep filing your weekly claims even after exhaustion - this is crucial. Second, contact WorkSource immediately about Training Benefits. I got approved for a cybersecurity bootcamp that was fully funded through Worker Retraining, and it extended my unemployment for the entire 9-month program. The trick is to start the application process NOW, not after your benefits run out. I visited my local WorkSource office in person (way more effective than calling) and they helped me apply for both the training program and Training Benefits on the same day. Within 3 weeks I was enrolled and my unemployment continued seamlessly. Also check if Extended Benefits are currently triggered in WA - the state unemployment rate has to hit certain thresholds, so availability changes. But even if EB isn't available, the training route can be a game-changer. Don't wait - get to WorkSource this week!