ESD denied my claim because of one college class - hearing scheduled, need advice!

Yes, I went through almost the exact same situation in 2025. The key is to emphasize to the judge that you are fully available for full-time work despite the class. Bring documentation showing: 1. Your class schedule (to show it's only one class and evening hours) 2. Job search log with all applications (to prove you're actively seeking work) 3. A written statement that you're willing to drop the class for employment In my hearing, I explained that the class was for professional development while job hunting and not a full academic program. The judge overturned my denial once I made it clear I was available for all standard work hours and would prioritize employment. Just be calm, factual, and don't get emotional during the hearing.

ESD is such garbage!!!! They ALWAYS try to find excuses to deny claims. My nephew was taking TWO classes and they tried to pull the same crap. It's just their way of keeping their numbers down. The system is BROKEN!!! Fight it hard and don't back down!!

i had a similar problem but with a certification course. just make sure you emphasize that your available for all normal work hours. the judge asked me specifically if id quit the class for a job and i said yes immedietly. got approved right after the hearing.

I was in a somewhat similar situation last year with ESD. The key for me was being able to prove that my class didn't interfere with standard work hours (8am-5pm). I also brought copies of my work search log showing I was applying to full-time positions. During my hearing, I clearly stated that employment was my priority and education was secondary. The judge overturned the denial, but I still had to wait about 3 weeks after the hearing to get the decision in the mail and start receiving benefits. You might want to call ESD before your hearing to see if there's any way to expedite things, though good luck getting through to them. I spent days trying to reach someone.

I help claimants with these hearings regularly. Here's what you need to know: 1. ESD denies claims based on school attendance because RCW 50.20.095 requires educational pursuits not to interfere with availability for work. 2. For a single class that doesn't conflict with normal work hours, you need to clearly demonstrate: - The limited time commitment (bring schedule) - Your willingness to prioritize work (written statement) - Your active job search (detailed job search log) - That you would accept any suitable work regardless of class schedule 3. Be prepared for specific questions about potential conflicts. If asked "Would you miss class for work?" the answer must be an unequivocal yes. 4. Dress professionally for the hearing (even if by phone) and address the judge respectfully. About 70% of these specific types of education-related denials are overturned when properly presented. Good luck!

i've been thru something like this my hearing was over zoom and lasted maybe 20 min, got the decision in the mail 2 weeks later. just be honest dont try to overexplain or make excuses. judges hear these cases all day and know when someones being straight with them

Trying to call ESD about your case before the hearing is actually a good idea, but reaching them is nearly impossible lately. I finally had success using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual ESD agent. They have a service that basically holds your place in line and calls you when they've got an agent. Saved me hours of frustration. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 I was able to get clarification about exactly what documentation I needed for my hearing, which was super helpful. The agent also added notes to my file about my willingness to prioritize work over school.

my roomate had this happen and won her appeal because she could prove the class was online and async so she could do it whenever. is yours in person? that might be harder to prove flexibility but still totally fight it!

BTW they're gonna ask you trick questions at the hearing to try to trip you up!!!! Like "would you miss an important exam for a job interview" and if you hesitate AT ALL they'll use it against you. The whole system is designed to deny benefits!!

One more tip I forgot to mention: prepare a one-page outline of your case to reference during the hearing. Include: 1. Brief description of your work history 2. When and why you filed for unemployment 3. Details of your class (time commitment, schedule, purpose) 4. Specific examples of jobs you've applied for 5. Clear statement about prioritizing work over education Having this in front of you will help you stay focused if you get nervous. The judges usually make a decision within 1-3 weeks after the hearing. In my case, it took 12 days to receive the written decision overturning my denial.

I work in career services and see this issue frequently. Another point to emphasize is that your class is actually enhancing your employability, not restricting it. Many judges recognize that responsible claimants use periods of unemployment to improve their skills. Make that connection clear without making it sound like the class is your priority.