ESD requesting proof of availability for 40 hours in labor relations field - will this delay my payment?

Yes, I got something similar about 3 weeks ago for my field (accounting). ESD is doing random checks to make sure people are actually available for full-time work in their claimed profession. It's part of their eligibility verification process. What you need to do is write a simple statement confirming that you're available for full-time work (40 hours) in labor relations positions, and then also attach your job search logs that show you're actively applying for jobs in that field. I'd also mention any scheduling flexibility you have. Don't worry too much - it's pretty routine. Just make sure to respond within their timeframe (usually 5 business days).

i got the same thing for construction work. super annoying!!! i just wrote them a note saying "yes im available 40hrs/week for construction" and uploaded my job search log. got paid normal the next week, no issues

I went through this EXACT same thing with my UI claim last month! It's super frustrating because they don't clearly explain what they want. I work in healthcare administration and they questioned my availability too. What I ended up doing was writing a detailed letter explaining: - That I'm available for 40+ hours weekly in labor relations - My transportation situation (reliable car) - Childcare arrangements (if applicable) - Any schedule limitations (be careful here - if you say you can only work certain hours it might create issues) Then I attached my job search logs showing I was actively applying for positions in labor relations. My payments continued without interruption after that. BTW - respond ASAP! These verification requests have tight deadlines and can cause your claim to get put on hold if you miss them.

OMG the ESD system is such a mess! They asked me for the same thing for retail positions and then put my claim on adjudication anyway even after I responded!! Been waiting 4 weeks now with no payment. Tried calling 65 times last week and couldn't get through. The whole system is designed to make people give up.

This is a routine fact-finding interview about your availability for work. ESD regulations require all claimants to be available for full-time work in their customary occupation. For labor relations positions, the standard workweek is typically 40 hours. To properly respond to this request: 1. Submit a detailed written statement confirming your availability for full-time work (40 hours/week) in labor relations positions 2. Specify that you have no restrictions that would prevent accepting suitable work 3. Provide your weekly job search logs showing active applications in your field 4. Include information about your transportation reliability and childcare arrangements (if applicable) 5. Mention your work history in labor relations to establish it as your customary occupation Response deadline is critical - if you miss it, your claim will enter adjudication status which can delay benefits for 4-8 weeks. Submit your documentation at least 24 hours before the deadline shown in eServices.

This is actually part of ESD's 2025 enhanced eligibility verification process. They're targeting specific occupational categories for additional scrutiny, and labor relations happens to be one of them due to the specialized nature of the field. In addition to confirming your 40-hour availability, make sure to address: - Your specific qualifications for labor relations positions (certifications, education, experience) - The geographic area you're willing to work within - Salary requirements (careful here - being too restrictive can cause issues) - Evidence of networking within the field (if applicable) I recommend uploading a formal letter addressing all these points plus your job search logs. Based on current processing times, you should receive a determination within 72 hours of submission if everything is in order.

the whole thing is just another hoop to jump thru. they make it complicated on purpose so people will mess up and they can deny benefits. just answer everything exactly how they want and keep copies of EVERYTHING you send them!!!

I help claimants with UI issues regularly, and this type of availability verification is standard procedure. Don't panic! Here's what you need to know: - This is not an audit or indication of a problem with your claim - Responding completely and promptly is key to avoiding payment interruptions - Your response should be a formal letter addressing your full availability for work in labor relations positions - Include information about your willingness to accept suitable work, transportation reliability, and any relevant qualifications Most importantly, submit your response at least 24-48 hours before the deadline shown in eServices. ESD processing times have improved in 2025, but giving them extra time helps ensure your benefits continue without interruption. If you're concerned about the status of your claim after submitting your response, you can always call the ESD claims center at 800-318-6022, though wait times can be long.

I went through this same availability verification process about 6 months ago for my field (project management). The key thing that helped me was being very specific in my response letter. I included: - A clear statement that I'm available for full-time work (40+ hours/week) in labor relations - My work history showing labor relations is my customary occupation - Details about my flexibility (willing to work any shift, available for overtime, etc.) - Transportation arrangements (reliable vehicle, willing to commute up to 45 minutes) - Job search documentation showing I'm actively applying in my field I also made sure to submit everything 2 days before the deadline just to be safe. My benefits continued without any interruption, and I received a confirmation message in eServices within about 5 business days saying my availability had been verified. The whole process seems intimidating at first, but it's really just ESD making sure you're genuinely available for work in your field. As long as you respond thoroughly and on time, you should be fine!