Can I still claim ESD benefits after accepting a job with monthly pay starting Feb 10?

Once you start working, you need to report your hours worked on your weekly claim even if you haven't been paid yet. ESD calculates benefits based on hours worked, not when you get paid. If you work full-time hours (32+ hours/week), you'll be considered fully employed and won't qualify for benefits that week regardless of when your paycheck arrives. However, if you're working part-time, you might still qualify for partial benefits depending on your earnings. You'll need to report your hours worked and what you WILL earn for those hours (even if not paid yet). ESD will deduct a percentage from your weekly benefit amount.

congrats on the job! but yea thats a tough spot. maybe ask ur new employer for an advance? some places will give u at least partial pay if u explain ur situation. worth asking at least

I had almost the same thing happen to me last year! It was horrible waiting for that first paycheck. I ended up having to borrow money from family. Monthly pay should be illegal seriously.

You might want to look into whether your state has any emergency assistance programs. In Washington, there's the Emergency Cash Assistance program through DSHS that might help bridge the gap. Also check with local community action agencies and nonprofits - some offer one-time emergency rent assistance. Definitely talk to your WorkSource specialist as they might know about resources specifically for people transitioning from unemployment to employment. This is actually a common problem that many people face when starting new jobs with different pay schedules.

The system is SO BROKEN! They expect people to just magically survive for weeks with no income when transitioning from unemployment to a job. I went through this and ESD was absolutely no help. They don't care if you can't pay rent or buy food as long as their precious rules are followed. It's ridiculous!!

Have you tried calling ESD directly to explain your situation? I had to reach them when I had a similar issue last year, but it was impossible to get through on the phone for weeks. I finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an actual ESD agent in about 30 minutes. They have a video demo of how it works here: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 When I explained my situation, the agent was able to give me specific guidance for my case. It might be worth connecting with them directly to see if there's any way to continue partial benefits or if they can suggest other resources.

my cousin had this happen and he just didnt tell esd he started working until after he got his first check lol but thats probably fraud so dont do that just saying what some people do

Another option to consider: Some banks offer small short-term loans or advances for customers with direct deposit history. If you've had your unemployment benefits direct deposited, your bank might offer something to help bridge the gap. Credit unions especially tend to have more flexible options than big banks. Also, if you've been doing your job search activities through WorkSource, they sometimes have funds specifically to help with employment transition barriers - which could include the gap between starting work and first paycheck. Definitely ask about this specifically when you talk to your specialist.