ESD job search log format - can I handwrite and submit photos?
Quick question about the job search logs we need to keep for ESD. I've been using their online system to track my 3 weekly activities, but I'm wondering if I can just print out the blank job search log form they have on the website, fill it out by hand, and then take photos of it if they ever request proof? My printer is acting up and sometimes the online system times out when I'm trying to enter everything. Anyone know if ESD accepts handwritten logs with photos as proof, or do they specifically require the digital version? Thanks!
15 comments
Brian Downey
Yes, you can definitely use a handwritten job search log! I've been through two ESD audits in the past year and they accepted my handwritten logs both times. Just make sure you include all the required information for each activity: - Date of the activity - Employer/organization name and contact info - Position applied for - Method of application - Result/outcome If they request verification, a clear photo is fine as long as everything is legible. Just be consistent with whatever method you choose.
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Myles Regis
•Oh that's such a relief! Thanks for confirming. My internet connection has been spotty lately which makes the online system frustrating to use. I'll download and print a few copies of their form this week.
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Jacinda Yu
I do mine on paper to. They don't care as long as you keep track of your 3 activities each week. Just dont lose it!!
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Landon Flounder
•I lost my job search log once and nearly had a heart attack when I got selected for audit! Had to scramble and recreate everything from memory and emails. NOT FUN. Now I take pictures of each page as backup as soon as I fill it out.
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Callum Savage
wait you guys are keeping actual logs?? i just write stuff down on random papers and hope they never ask me for it lol
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Brian Downey
•You're really taking a risk there. ESD randomly selects people for job search reviews, and if you can't provide proper documentation, you might have to pay back benefits. I'd strongly recommend using either their official form or at least keeping organized notes with all the required information.
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Callum Savage
•shoot, i didnt know they actually check that stuff. guess i better get organized
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Ally Tailer
While handwritten logs are technically acceptable, I personally recommend using the online system whenever possible. It creates a more permanent record that you can access anytime, and you don't have to worry about losing physical papers. That said, if you do use paper logs, I suggest: 1. Take photos immediately after completing each entry 2. Store them in a dedicated folder on your phone/computer 3. Consider creating backups (email to yourself, cloud storage) If your internet is unreliable, perhaps try completing entries when you have stable connection, like at a library or coffee shop.
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Myles Regis
•Those are really good suggestions about backing up the photos. I hadn't thought about emailing them to myself! I'll probably try a hybrid approach - use the online system when my internet cooperates, and paper when it doesn't.
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Aliyah Debovski
I tried calling ESD directly to ask about job search logs format last month and it was IMPOSSIBLE to get through!!! Spent 3 hours on hold before getting disconnected. So frustrating when you just need a simple answer to something like this.
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Miranda Singer
•I had the same problem trying to reach ESD about my job search review! After days of failed attempts, I finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an agent in about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. The agent confirmed that handwritten logs are acceptable as long as they contain all the required information and are legible. Saved me so much frustration!
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Cass Green
One time I got selected for job search review and I had everything on paper but when I tried to upload photos they said file too big and I had to spend forever trying to resize them all its such a hassle
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Brian Downey
•That's a good point about file sizes. If you're submitting photos, make sure they're clear enough to read but compressed enough to upload. There are free image compression tools online that can help with this.
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Landon Flounder
IMPORTANT: Make absolutely sure your handwritten logs are LEGIBLE! I got disqualified for a week of benefits because ESD couldn't read my chicken scratch on one entry. They're super strict about having complete information for each job search activity. I had to appeal and it was a whole ordeal that took weeks to resolve.
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Myles Regis
•Oh wow, that's scary! I'll definitely make sure my handwriting is clear. Maybe I'll use a printed template and just fill in the blanks very neatly. Thanks for the warning!
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