Can truck drivers get Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

That's a relief! I was worried the multi-state thing would disqualify me. Do I need to report wages from all states when I file?

Washington ESD will automatically check with other states for your wage history when you file. Just make sure to list all employers from the past 18 months on your application.

Oh great, that's exactly what I was afraid of. How many times did you have to call?

Honestly lost count after 50+ attempts. The lines are always busy and when you do get through, you often get disconnected.

You might want to try Claimyr - it's a service that helps people get through to Washington ESD agents. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling when I needed to resolve my adjudication issue.

Good point. Do they accept applications to trucking companies through job boards like Indeed or do they want direct company applications?

Both count as long as you can document them. Screenshot the applications and keep track of dates and company names for your weekly claims.

You're right - owner-operators are considered self-employed so they don't qualify for regular unemployment. Company drivers who get W-2s and have taxes withheld are employees and do qualify.

That makes sense. Thanks for clarifying!

How long has your claim been in adjudication? That sounds really stressful.

Almost 6 weeks now. I've called probably 30 times and can never get through to find out what's taking so long.

Have you tried using Claimyr? I mentioned it earlier but it really does help get through to Washington ESD agents. Much better than calling repeatedly yourself.

Did you have any issues with your claim since you worked in other states?

Nope, they combined wages from Oregon and Idaho automatically. Just took a couple extra weeks to process initially.

Good catch! My medical card expires next month so I should probably renew it before filing.

Yeah definitely do that. Don't want any delays over something simple like an expired medical card.

I have my layoff notice from the company. Should that be enough documentation?

should be fine. just keep copies of everything

What if I do some local delivery work while searching for a long-haul position? Do I need to report that even if it's just temporary?

Yes, you must report all work and earnings on your weekly claims, even temporary or part-time work. They'll adjust your benefits accordingly.

I mostly did solo long-haul with pretty standard schedules. Hopefully that won't be an issue.

You should be fine then. It's mainly drivers with very specific schedules or restrictions who run into availability questions.

Thanks for the reminder. How long does it typically take to get the first payment after that?

If your claim is approved without issues, usually about a week after you file your first weekly claim. But with multi-state wages it might take longer.

That's good advice. I was thinking about waiting a week or two but you're right, better to file now.

Exactly. The sooner you file, the sooner your claim can be processed and you can start receiving benefits if you need them.

That's scary. How can I make sure my company reports it correctly?

Keep your layoff notice and any emails about the separation. If there's an issue, you'll have documentation for an appeal.

Definitely not planning to do that! I was legitimately laid off due to the company downsizing.

Good, just wanted to mention it because I've seen drivers get in trouble for that. Sounds like you're in a legitimate situation.

That's a great idea. I've been thinking about getting my HAZMAT endorsement.

HAZMAT definitely opens up more opportunities and usually pays better too. Worth the investment.

How much does Claimyr cost? Might be worth it if it saves all the calling hassle.

I don't remember the exact amount but it was reasonable considering how much time it saved me. Check their website for current pricing.

I'm mainly looking for OTR positions anyway, so being away from home is expected in trucking.

Right, that's normal for trucking. I was more referring to other types of work, but for drivers it's understood that the job requires travel.

Thanks for all the encouragement and advice everyone! Feeling much more confident about filing now.

You're welcome! This forum is great for helping each other navigate the unemployment system.