ESD job search log format - can I just use blank paper?

when i was on unemployment last year i just used a notebook and wrote down all the info they ask for (date, employer name, position, contact info, application method, etc) and it was fine. they never even asked to see my logs tbh

While you can technically use blank paper, I'd recommend downloading ESD's official job search log form from their website. Here's the direct link: https://esd.wa.gov/unemployment/job-search-requirements The form has all the fields ESD specifically looks for when they audit your job search activities, including: - Date of contact - Employer contact information - Person contacted - Method of contact - Type of work sought - Action taken - Results You're required to keep these logs for at least 30 days after your benefit year ends or until ESD tells you otherwise. Better safe than sorry!

I've been using my own spreadsheet since my claim started in January. Personally, I find it easier to track everything electronically. Does anyone know if ESD accepts digital job search logs? Would I need to print them out if they request to see them? The whole system seems so outdated!!

u can use anything u want just make sure u write down ALL the info they need. my friend got disqualified from benefits because she didn't include phone numbers for the companies she applied to. she had to appeal and it was a HUGE headache

Here's my advice after going through two unemployment periods: use the official form for your first few weeks until you understand exactly what information ESD requires. Then you can switch to your own system if you prefer. Another tip: take screenshots of your job applications as you submit them. This has saved me twice during job search reviews when I couldn't remember specific details about applications from weeks ago. And remember that WorkSource workshops count as job search activities! They're easy to document and can replace one of your weekly job applications if you're struggling to find positions to apply for.

THE ESD SYSTEM IS A COMPLETE JOKE!!! I documented EVERYTHING perfectly for 6 months and they STILL tried to say I didn't do enough job searches. Had to spend 3 WEEKS trying to get through to someone to fix it. Eventually had to use a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually reach a human at ESD. They got me connected to an agent in like 20 minutes after I spent DAYS getting hung up on. Check their video to see how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 BUT MY POINT: document EVERYTHING in EXTREME detail because they will look for ANY reason to deny you!!

I've been wondering the same thing about job search logs. Does anyone know if LinkedIn Easy Apply applications count as job search activities? I've been doing like 10 of those a day but they're so quick I wasn't sure if ESD would accept them.

my cousin works at worksource and she said that most people never get audited so dont stress too much about it. but yea def keep track of everything just in case

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! I've downloaded the official form from the link provided and will use that. Also planning to save screenshots of all my applications and maybe try a WorkSource workshop. Really appreciate all the tips!