Can you get unemployment if you move out of Washington state?

That's a relief! Do I need to notify Washington ESD about the move or can I just keep filing normally?

You should update your address in your eServices account. They don't require advance notice for moves, but keeping your info current is always smart.

Did you have to look for jobs in Washington or were you allowed to search in your new state?

You can search anywhere! I was looking for remote work mostly, but also applied to jobs in both states.

That's frustrating! Were you eventually able to resolve it?

Yeah, but it took forever. I ended up using Claimyr to actually get through to a real person at Washington ESD. They have this system that calls you back when an agent is available - found it at claimyr.com. There's even a demo video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

Never heard of that service before, does it actually work?

It worked for me! I was able to talk to someone within a few hours instead of spending days trying to call.

What would make them think I'm not available? I'm definitely still looking for work.

As long as you're applying to jobs and can start work if offered, you should be fine. Just document everything in your job search activities.

Nope! UI benefits follow you wherever you go. You earned those benefits working in Washington, so you keep them even if you move.

that's actually really good to know, thanks!

Moving during adjudication shouldn't affect the process, but definitely update your address so they can reach you if needed.

Good point, I'll make sure to update everything before I go.

I'll keep that in mind, thanks! Hopefully I won't need it but good to know it's there.

Oh I hadn't thought about that. I'll have to look into Oregon's tax rules.

Yeah, each state handles unemployment taxes differently. Definitely worth researching before you move.

That's awesome! Did you have to do anything special with WorkSource or just keep doing the regular job search stuff?

Just the regular stuff. I used WorkSource online to track my searches, same as always.

Totally agree! So much important info is buried or hard to find.

This is why forums like this are so helpful - real people sharing real experiences.

Good advice. I'm mostly looking at remote work anyway so hopefully that won't be an issue.

Remote work definitely makes it easier! Just make sure you're still meeting the minimum job search requirements.

That's exactly why I asked! I didn't want to risk it without knowing for sure.

Better to ask than assume and miss out on opportunities!

Seems like a few people have had good luck with it. I'll bookmark it just in case.

Yeah I saw that mentioned earlier too. Might be worth trying if the regular phone system doesn't work.

Absolutely! I never miss those. Too important to risk.

Smart! Consistency with weekly filings is key to keeping benefits flowing.

Glad it helped you too! That's why I love this community - everyone helps each other out.

Definitely! So much better than trying to figure this stuff out alone.