Congrats again! You've got good advice here. Just file your weekly claim, report your return to work accurately, and you should be all set. The system usually handles the rest automatically.

One more tip that hasn't been mentioned - if your new job is part-time or you're not sure about the hours yet, you might still be eligible for partial unemployment benefits. Don't automatically assume you need to close your claim completely if you're not working full-time hours. Washington ESD has provisions for people who are working reduced hours and can still receive some benefits to supplement their income. Just make sure to report all wages accurately on your weekly claims.

Bottom line - file your claim today. Performance issues rarely count as disqualifying misconduct in Washington state. You paid into the system and you deserve benefits if you're eligible.

Just wanted to add that Washington ESD also has an online appeal process if your initial claim gets denied. Don't give up if you get a rejection letter - many performance-related terminations get overturned on appeal when you can provide more context about the situation. The appeals process gives you a chance to explain your side in detail and provide any documentation showing you were making good faith efforts to meet expectations. I've seen several cases where people won on appeal even after being initially denied.

Exactly! Always report any work and wages accurately. Washington ESD will figure out if you're still eligible for partial benefits based on what you report.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet - make sure you understand what constitutes "suitable work" while on standby status. Even though you don't have to actively search for jobs, if Washington ESD refers you to other work that's deemed suitable, you might still be required to consider it. This usually only happens if your standby period extends beyond the expected recall timeframe, but it's worth knowing about upfront.

Final reminder - even though your benefits are ending, stay engaged with WorkSource and keep your resume updated. The job market changes and new opportunities come up all the time.

I'm in a similar situation - my benefits end in about a month and I've been worried sick about it. Reading through all these responses has been really eye-opening. I had no idea there were so many different programs and resources available. I'm definitely going to reach out to WorkSource this week and see what training programs might be available. It's reassuring to know that even when regular UI ends, there are still pathways forward if you know where to look and aren't too proud to ask for help.

Bottom line: expect to wait an extra week for your first payment no matter what. Plan your finances accordingly because that waiting week catches a lot of people off guard.

Just want to add that the waiting week is required by state law in Washington - it's not just something Washington ESD made up to be difficult. RCW 50.20.010 specifically requires this unpaid waiting period. I know it's frustrating when you're already struggling financially, but understanding that it's a legal requirement helps explain why there aren't exceptions or workarounds. The law was designed this way to reduce the state's unemployment costs and encourage quick job searching, though I agree it feels harsh when you're the one dealing with it.