ESD message says I 'no longer need to do weekly claims' but job search still required - what's going on?

sounds like ur on standby now maybe?? did ur employer request standby status for u? when ur on standby u dont file weekly but still gotta do job search i think

This message typically appears when your claim is transitioning to a different status or benefit type. Have you exhausted your regular UI benefits? Check your Determination Letter in your ESD account for any recent updates. Also look at your remaining benefit balance - if it shows $0, you might be transitioning to Extended Benefits if those are currently available in 2025. The fact that it's telling you to continue job searches is a good sign - it means you're still eligible for some type of unemployment benefit. But you should definitely contact ESD directly to clarify exactly what's happening with your specific claim.

I experienced this exact same thing last month! For me, it turned out I was being automatically enrolled in a training program through WorkSource. When this happens, your claim gets flagged as a "Training Benefits" claim rather than regular UI, which changes how you file. Did you recently talk to anyone at WorkSource or sign up for any training programs?

I HATE how ESD just throws these confusing messages at us with ZERO explanation!!! Last year they randomly told me my benefits were denied after 4 months of payments, then approved again a week later, then reduced with no explanation. The whole system is designed to frustrate people so they'll give up. You NEED to call them but good luck getting through - I tried for THREE WEEKS straight last year and either got hung up on or was on hold for hours only to be disconnected.

same thing happened to my daughter last month. turns out she qualified for some special program that had different filing requirements. check your messages tab, there might be more info there that you missed.

This happened to me last year!! It was actually a good thing - in my case I was being switched to a different tier of benefits that required less frequent filing. Still got paid every week but only had to report once a month. Saved me a lot of hassle honestly. But definitely check with ESD to make sure that's what's happening in your case.

After reading through everyone's responses, it sounds most likely that you've been placed in a Training Benefits program following your WorkSource meeting. This is generally positive as it allows you to focus on gaining new skills while still receiving benefits. Here's what you should do: 1. Check your correspondence tab for any notifications about Training Benefits approval 2. Contact your WorkSource counselor directly to confirm your enrollment status 3. Verify if your job search requirements have changed (typically reduced or eliminated during approved training) 4. Make note of any new reporting requirements that replace weekly claims Training Benefits can last up to 52 weeks in Washington state and often provide more stable support while you upskill. The Excel certification courses you mentioned would qualify as approved training for an accounting professional.