ESD denying claims due to mandatory union training - help needed!

Ugh, the ESD system is totally broken when it comes to union trades! I had the same issue last year with my electrical apprenticeship classes. The trick is you need to still mark yourself as "able and available" for work even during your training weeks, then explain the situation in the adjudication interview (which they'll eventually schedule). DON'T write about the training in your weekly claim comments - that's what's triggering the automatic denial. Also, you need to document that the training is REQUIRED for your profession.

I work with the carpenters union and went through this exact scenario. The key is understanding how ESD classifies "approved training" vs. regular unavailability. You need to apply for Training Benefits (TB) status before your next class period. Here's what to do: 1. Download and complete the "Training Benefits Application" from the ESD website 2. Get a letter from your union confirming these classes are mandatory for continued employment 3. Submit both through your eServices account under "Upload a Document" 4. Call and speak to a claims specialist to flag your account for TB review Unfortunately, your previous denied weeks might be hard to recover unless you appeal each one separately. The system isn't set up well for union training situations, but the TB program exists specifically for cases like yours.

those ESD ppl dont care about union workers, ive been through this 4 times now and still get denied every time I have my hvac certification classes. just keep filing appeals for every week they deny you. eventually they'll get tired of processing them and approve you lol

I was in exactly your shoes last year with my IBEW apprenticeship classes. After weeks of frustration, I finally got through to someone at ESD using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They have this service that gets you through to an actual ESD agent instead of waiting on hold forever. There's a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The agent I spoke with immediately understood the union training situation and transferred me to a specialist who fixed my claims on the spot and explained I needed to apply for something called Commissioner Approved Training status. Saved me from missing a mortgage payment.

Hi there! I'm a workforce navigator who works with union training programs. What you're experiencing is actually a common issue. Your union training should qualify under what ESD calls "Commissioner Approved Training" or CAT (different from the regular Training Benefits program mentioned above). For union-required training specifically: 1. Complete the "Training Benefits/Commissioner Approved Training Application" (ESD form 5329) 2. Have your union representative complete the bottom portion confirming this is required training 3. Submit it BEFORE your training begins (ideally 1-2 weeks prior) 4. Continue answering "YES" to being able and available for work on weekly claims If you've already been denied for past weeks, you'll need to file an appeal within 30 days of each denial letter. The appeal process is straightforward - you explain that the training is a requirement of your industry and employment. About 75% of these specific types of appeals are successful. Hope this helps!

im confused bout the difference between training benefits and commissioner aproved training??? are they the same thing or different programs??

DONT FORGET to keep filing your weekly claims even while this is getting sorted out!!! Even if they're getting denied right now. You can always appeal and get backpay later, but if you stop filing weekly claims, you can NEVER get those weeks back no matter what.

anybody else notice how the esd website is down like every other weekend for "maintenance" right when most people have time to file their claims??? seems REAL convenient for them

Update: I got approved! For anyone with this same issue, here's what worked for me. I followed the advice here about the Commissioner Approved Training application AND I was able to reach an ESD specialist who flagged my account properly. The key was getting my union to provide a detailed letter explaining why these classes are mandatory for ongoing employment eligibility. All my previously denied weeks are being reconsidered now. Thanks everyone for your help!