Can I get Washington ESD unemployment if my job is too far away?

Thanks! What kind of documentation should I gather? I have the email about the office move but not much else.

Keep that email for sure. Also document your commute time with Google Maps screenshots, calculate your gas costs, and if you discussed the situation with your supervisor, note those conversations too.

How long did it take for them to approve your claim? I'm worried about the adjudication process taking forever.

Mine took about 3 weeks to get through adjudication. They had to verify the job location change with my employer. I'd recommend filing as soon as possible since it can take time.

I've never heard of that service. Is it legit? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days with no luck.

Yeah it's real. Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent picks up. Saved me hours of sitting on hold.

I did ask about working from home but they said our department has to be in office. I should have gotten that in writing though.

Even if you don't have it in writing, document when you asked and who you spoke with. Include that information when you file your claim.

Where can I find that handbook? I want to read the exact requirements before I file.

It's on the Washington ESD website under employment security laws. Look for the section on voluntary quit determinations.

Oh no, what happened with your appeal? I really can't afford to be without income for months.

eventually won the appeal but it took like 6 weeks total. make sure you document EVERYTHING from the start

Good point about vehicle wear. I'm putting an extra 200 miles on my car every day now. That adds up fast.

Exactly. At current gas prices and maintenance costs, you're probably looking at $400-500 extra per month just for the commute.

I was planning to give two weeks notice. Should I mention the commute issue in my resignation letter?

Absolutely. State clearly that the office relocation created an unreasonable commute that you cannot sustain. Keep a copy of everything.

I asked about that but they said since it's still within Washington state they don't offer relocation help. Pretty frustrating.

That actually strengthens your case with Washington ESD. Shows you explored all options before deciding to quit.

How long did your adjudication take? I keep seeing people say it varies a lot.

mine was about 4 weeks but i think it depends on how backed up they are. file as soon as you quit though

How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money.

They focus on the value of getting through rather than the cost. When you're dealing with unemployment eligibility, getting accurate information quickly is worth it.

Right, I forgot about that part. Do I need to look for jobs in the same area as my old job or can I focus on positions closer to home?

You can focus your search on reasonable commute distances from your home. Washington ESD expects you to look for suitable work, not just any work.

Yeah, I'm leaving home at 5 AM and getting back after 8 PM. It's killing me and I barely see my family.

Include that impact on your personal life in your documentation. Washington ESD considers the overall reasonableness of continuing employment.

That's what I'm worried about. Seems like there's no consistency in how they handle these situations.

That's why documentation is so important. The more evidence you have, the harder it is for them to deny your claim arbitrarily.

Good to know. I really hope it doesn't come to that but it's reassuring that there are options if the initial decision is wrong.

Just make sure you file the appeal within the deadline if needed. Don't wait around hoping they'll change their mind.

Smart idea. I've been paying with my card so I should be able to pull up the transaction history too.

Perfect. Bank statements showing the increase in gas expenses will be great supporting evidence.

I already asked about transferring but they said there aren't any openings at other locations. Should I get that in writing somehow?

If possible, yes. Even just an email confirming no transfer options are available would help your case.

That's actually really helpful to know. I'd rather get it right the first time than have to go through appeals.

Agreed. I wasted weeks trying to get through on my own before someone mentioned services like that. Wish I'd known about it earlier.

Thanks for the heads up. I'm already stressed about the whole situation so I'll try to prepare myself mentally for the process.

You've got this! Your situation sounds like it clearly meets the criteria for good cause. Just stay organized and be patient with the system.

That's a good point I hadn't considered. I was just focused on getting out of this impossible commute situation.

Totally understandable! Just something to think about if you have any flexibility in your timeline.

Actually, that's really smart advice. I'm in tech and I know hiring tends to slow down around the holidays. Maybe I should time this for early in the year when more positions open up. Thanks for thinking of that angle!