ESD Training Benefits denied for union apprenticeship - confused about qualification rules

yeah i heard something similar when i was looking at a carpentry program. the way they explained it to me is that training benefits are meant for ppl who need to completely change careers cuz their industry is gone, not for moving up within the same general field. its stupid tho cuz you'd think they'd want to help ppl get better paying jobs

The rules for Commissioner Approved Training (CAT) and Training Benefits (TB) are complicated but specific. For union apprenticeships, the issue is often that they're considered employer-attached training rather than independent retraining. To qualify for TB, you generally need to be: 1. Dislocated from your industry (not just changing unions in the same sector) 2. Unlikely to return to your previous occupation 3. Enrolled in training that leads to demand occupations The fact that you're moving from laborers to operators union might be seen as lateral movement within construction, not retraining for a new career path. I'd recommend requesting a formal determination in writing so you can appeal if necessary. Sometimes different ESD agents interpret the rules differently.

I went through something similar last year when trying to get TraBen (that's what the reps call Training Benefits lol) for commercial driving school. What worked for me was reaching out to my union rep first to see if they have any documentation about how the operator skills are completely different from laborer skills. They might have something that shows it's actually retraining, not just an upgrade. Then I submitted that with my application and got approved. Btw have you been able to actually talk to a claims specialist about this? The frontline reps often don't know the full details about training programs.

omg esd is just the worst sometimes!!! i had to call like 50 times before i got someone who knew what they were talking about. most of them just read off a script and don't understand how trades actually work! my boyfriend had the same problem with his electrical apprenticeship

I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to finally get through to an actual claims specialist who knew the training benefit rules. Regular agents gave me conflicting info for weeks. The specialist explained that you need to apply for Commissioner Approved Training first, then separately for Training Benefits if you qualify. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 For me, the key was getting to someone who could actually look at the specific WAC rules that applied to my situation rather than just giving general info. Worth the time saved after weeks of busy signals and disconnects.

I'm a Training Benefits specialist with a workforce development agency (not ESD). Here's what I can tell you: 1. Union apprenticeships CAN qualify for Commissioner Approved Training in some circumstances, but it depends on multiple factors. 2. The key distinction is whether you're entering a "demand occupation" that's substantially different from your previous work. Moving from general labor to operating specialized equipment might qualify if you can document the skill difference. 3. You need to apply for Commissioner Approved Training (CAT) approval BEFORE your UI runs out. This is critical! 4. For Training Benefits (the extension beyond regular UI), you'll need to demonstrate that the training is necessary for you to become employable in your new occupation. I recommend getting documentation from both unions showing the difference in skill sets and pay scales. Submit this with your CAT application. Don't just take a phone rep's word for it - the regulations are complex and often misunderstood even by ESD staff.

ESD is so inconsistent! my friend got approved for training ben. for her CDL training but i got denied for almost the same thing. it depends entirely on which worker reviews ur case and what mood their in that day. some of them don't know their own rules!!!! keep calling back til u get someone who will actually help u instead of just saying no.

UPDATE on Training Benefits rules for 2025: ESD has slightly broadened their interpretation of what qualifies as "substantially different occupation" for Commissioner Approved Training. The key factors now include: 1. Wage difference (10%+ potential increase helps your case) 2. Different skill set requirements (documented by DOT codes) 3. Different working conditions or environment 4. Industry demand (higher demand occupations get priority) For union apprenticeships specifically, you need to emphasize that this is a completely different career path requiring specialized training that wasn't part of your previous work. Don't frame it as advancement or career development - frame it as necessary retraining for employment. Also, be aware that even if you're denied Training Benefits (the extension), you can still get Commissioner Approved Training status which waives job search requirements while you train.