ESD claims denied after age 60 - possible discrimination but need benefits to survive

This situation really sucks, I feel for you. My dad (67) went through something similar last year. While you can't definitively prove age discrimination in hiring, there ARE some options with ESD: 1) If you're in a declining occupation or your skills need updating, you might qualify for Training Benefits which extend your UI while you train for something new. There's a process to apply for this through ESD. 2) For your job search activities, try adding some networking events and informational interviews to mix things up rather than just applications that aren't working. 3) ESD offers specialized services for older workers through their WorkSource centers. They can help identify industries more open to experienced workers. 4) Document EVERYTHING in your job search that seems suspicious regarding age. While hard to prove, if you have a pattern, you might have a case worth discussing with the EEOC.

ur not alone! im 63 and had simiilar issue. applied to 90+ jobs in 3 months with only 2 interviews. they see ur graduation dates or work history and just toss ur application. its BS but they get away with it!!!

I work with displaced workers, including many over 60. Here's what I can tell you about your ESD benefits situation: - For the Training Benefits program mentioned above, you need to submit the Training Benefits application through your eServices account. Look under "Apply for Programs" section. This can extend benefits up to 26 additional weeks while you train for a new career. - Consider Commissioner Approved Training (CAT) as well, which waives job search requirements while you're in approved training. - For your immediate job search requirements, WorkSource offers workshops specifically for older workers that count toward your weekly activities. - If you're struggling with regular UI benefits limitations, make sure to connect with the Economic Security for All (EcSA) program which can provide additional support beyond just unemployment. Regarding age discrimination - it's incredibly difficult to prove, but documenting specific instances like your former employer's behavior creates evidence if you decide to pursue an EEOC complaint.

THEY KNOW EXACTLY WHAT THEYRE DOING!!! Companies talk about "experience" but then refuse to hire anyone with actual EXPERIENCE because they don't want to pay what we're worth! I'm 59 and went through 8 MONTHS of this garbage before finding something that pays 40% less than my previous job. The system is completely RIGGED against older workers and ESD doesn't care - they just keep pressuring you to take ANY job even if it pays poverty wages. Make sure you're documenting EVERYTHING for your weekly claims because they'll use ANY excuse to deny benefits.

Have you tried getting through to an ESD agent to ask about extended benefits options? I was in a similar spot (57, not 62, but still facing age issues) and finally got some helpful advice after speaking directly with an agent about my situation. The problem is actually reaching someone - took me 23 calls over 3 days before I got through. I discovered a service called Claimyr that helped me finally reach an ESD agent without the endless busy signals and hangups. You can see how it works at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 and their website is claimyr.com. It basically holds your place in line so you don't have to keep redialing. The agent I spoke with helped me understand the Commissioner Approved Training option that others mentioned above.

Have you considered self-employment? When my husband couldn't find work at 64, he started consulting in his field. ESD has a Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) that lets you work on starting a business while still receiving benefits. Just something to consider if traditional employment isn't working out.

I want to correct some misconceptions I'm seeing in this thread. For qualifying for Training Benefits with ESD, you need to submit your application within the first 5 weeks of your claim or within 5 weeks of Trade Act certification. It's not automatically granted - you need to show that: 1. Your occupation is declining or your skills are obsolete 2. The training will lead to employment opportunities 3. You can successfully complete the training For the original poster, your transition from manufacturing QC to data analysis could potentially qualify, especially if you can demonstrate that manufacturing jobs in your area are declining. Regarding age discrimination - while it absolutely happens, ESD's role isn't to address hiring discrimination but to provide benefits while you search for work. EEOC or your state's human rights commission handles discrimination claims. For meeting job search requirements when options seem limited, remember that the requirement is 3 job search ACTIVITIES per week, not just applications. Networking events, skills workshops, and informational interviews all count.

To answer your most recent question - Commissioner Approved Training (CAT) doesn't have the same strict timeline as Training Benefits. You can apply for CAT at any point during your claim. The main difference is that CAT waives your job search requirements while you're in training, but doesn't extend your benefit period like Training Benefits does. Based on everything you've shared, I'd recommend: 1. Try to get through to ESD (using that Claimyr service if needed) to discuss your specific situation 2. Visit a WorkSource office in person to speak with someone about the programs for older workers 3. Look into the SSAP (Strategies for Success Assessment Program) through WorkSource which helps identify transferable skills Don't give up! There are resources designed specifically for situations like yours.