ESD application after almost quitting due to illness - how do I cancel my claim?

your fine if you didnt file any weekly claims nothing happens. the initial app just sits there dormant

Speaking from experience, you don't need to worry. Your initial application just establishes your potential eligibility, but without weekly claims being filed, no benefits will be paid and the claim essentially becomes inactive. ESD doesn't notify your employer just because you filed an initial application - employers are only contacted during the eligibility verification process which happens after you start filing weekly claims. If you're concerned, you can always log into your eServices account and check the status, but there's really no action needed on your part since you're continuing employment.

The previous comments have some good information but let me clarify a few things: 1. Your initial application does create a claim in the ESD system, but without weekly claims, no benefits are processed or paid 2. Yes, employers typically receive an automated notice when an initial claim is filed - this is part of ESD's verification process 3. The best approach is to call ESD directly to explain the situation and formally withdraw your application. This creates a clear record in their system that you're not seeking benefits To reach ESD, call 833-572-8400, but be prepared for long wait times. You might want to try calling right when they open at 8:00 AM for the shortest wait.

I had this EXACT same situation happen last year. Filed when I thought I was getting laid off, then ended up keeping my job. I tried calling ESD for WEEKS with no luck - constant disconnects or hours-long wait times. Finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual ESD agent. They have this system that holds your place in line and calls you back when an agent is available. Saved me literally hours of waiting. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 When I finally got through, the agent told me I could formally withdraw my claim by sending a secure message through the eServices portal. Much easier than I thought it would be!

Everyone's overthinking this. I've been on unemployment 3 different times in Washington. If you haven't filed any weekly claims, there's literally nothing to worry about. Your employer might have gotten an automated notice, but without weekly claims, the whole thing is moot. I'd just ignore it and move on with your life. Save yourself the headache of dealing with ESD bureaucracy.

Let me share what I learned the hard way last year... DOCUMENT EVERYTHING!!! Even if you're not going to pursue the claim, send a message through eServices stating you're withdrawing your application because you remained employed. Screenshot that message for your records!! A friend of mine had a similar situation and 6 months later got hit with an "overpayment notice" for benefits she never even received!!! It was a NIGHTMARE to fix. ESD isn't exactly known for their great record keeping lol. Cover your butt and create that paper trail now!!!!

Just to follow up on the employer notification question - yes, employers do receive an initial notification when an application is filed, but this is very routine. Many HR departments receive these regularly and it doesn't automatically trigger any negative action. If you're concerned about your employer's perception, you could simply mention to your manager that you briefly considered leaving due to your health issues but decided to stay, and that you may have prematurely started an unemployment application during that stressful time. Most managers would appreciate your transparency and commitment to continuing with the job. As for formally withdrawing, sending a secure message through eServices (as others suggested) is definitely the easiest approach and creates documentation of your intent.

Just curious - what kind of illness can make you unable to work one day and then suddenly fine the next? Not judging, but seems kinda fishy to me. ESD investigates fraud pretty seriously from what I've heard.

After reading all the comments, I think the best course of action is: 1. Send a secure message through your eServices account clearly stating you wish to withdraw your application because you remained employed 2. Take a screenshot of this message for your records 3. If you're concerned about your employer's perception, have a brief conversation with your manager to explain the situation 4. Monitor your eServices account for the next few weeks to ensure no unexpected actions are taken on your claim This approach provides documentation, transparency, and peace of mind without requiring you to spend hours trying to reach someone by phone.