Got WorkSource appointment requirement letter after just starting ESD benefits - mandatory?
Has anyone experienced this timing? I just got approved for unemployment last week (finally!) after waiting almost 3 weeks for adjudication to clear. I received my first payment deposit yesterday, and today I got a letter saying I'm required to attend a mandatory WorkSource appointment within 14 days. The letter says failure to attend could impact my benefits. Is this normal timing or did I do something wrong on my weekly claim? I thought the job search requirements were just logging 3 activities each week, not having to physically go to WorkSource. Any advice on what to expect at these appointments? I'm really stressed about possibly losing my benefits if I miss this.
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Jacob Lee
This is totally normal - most people get this letter after their first payment or two. It's part of ESD's standard reemployment services. The WorkSource appointment is mandatory and separate from your weekly job search activities (which you still need to do). At the appointment, they'll review your job search strategy, help you with your resume, and connect you with resources. It's actually pretty helpful! Just make sure to bring your job search log and any questions you have about finding work. If you can't make the scheduled time, call immediately to reschedule - don't just miss it.
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Ava Harris
•Thank you so much! That's a relief. I was worried I had messed something up. Do you know if these appointments are offered virtually or only in-person? The letter isn't clear about that part.
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Emily Thompson
Yep got the exact same thing back in january!!!! its just thier way of making sure your not just sitting on your butt collecting $$. The appointment is annoying but not that bad, mine was like 45 min where they just explained all the worksource services and made me sign up for some job alerts. if your in construction/trades the programs can actualy be pretty good if your looking to learn new skills.
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Sophie Hernandez
•Just to clarify - these WorkSource appointments are actually REEMPLOYMENT SERVICE APPOINTMENTS (RESAs) mandated by law, not just "their way of making sure you're not sitting on your butt." They're designed to help claimants get back to work faster, which benefits both the claimant and the unemployment system. Many people find valuable resources they wouldn't have known about otherwise.
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Daniela Rossi
I tried calling the WorkSource number on my letter 5 times but couldn't get anyone. Is there a better way to reach them? I need to reschedule mine because it conflicts with a job interview (ironically).
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Ryan Kim
•I had the same issue trying to reach them! Try using Claimyr (claimyr.com) - it's a service that helps you get through to ESD and WorkSource much faster. They have a video demo here: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. I used it to reschedule my WorkSource appointment when I couldn't get through on the regular line. Saved me hours of frustration and made sure I didn't miss my mandatory appointment window.
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Zoe Walker
does anyone know what happens if u miss the appointment? my car broke down day of mine and i couldnt make it... still waiting to see if they cut off my benefits :
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Jacob Lee
•You need to call them ASAP and explain the situation. Missing the appointment without contacting them can result in a denial of benefits, but if you have a legitimate reason and reschedule promptly, they're usually understanding. Document your car trouble (receipt from mechanic, tow service, etc.) as evidence for your case if needed. Don't wait for them to contact you - be proactive!
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Elijah Brown
These WorkSource appointments are a complete waste of time designed to make it harder to collect benefits! I was forced to sit through a 2-hour "workshop" with 20 other people where they taught us how to use Indeed and write a resume. Like we don't know how to search for jobs online? I literally have 15 years experience in my field and they treated us all like we were teenagers looking for our first job. Total bureaucratic hoop-jumping.
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Sophie Hernandez
•While I understand your frustration, these appointments serve different people with different needs. Some claimants do benefit from basic job search assistance, while others might find value in the networking opportunities or specialized programs. Remember that WorkSource offers many services beyond the initial mandatory appointment, including training funds, certification programs, and connections to employers actively hiring. I'd recommend asking specifically about resources for experienced professionals in your field.
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Ava Harris
Update: I attended my WorkSource appointment today. For anyone else who gets one of these letters, here's what happened: It was about an hour long, first in a group setting where they explained all the services (job search help, training opportunities, workshops) and then we had individual meetings with a counselor. They reviewed my job search activities so far and suggested some industries I hadn't considered that match my skills. They also scheduled me for a resume workshop next week. Overall not as stressful as I feared and actually somewhat helpful!
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Jacob Lee
•Thanks for sharing your experience! Glad to hear it was helpful. The resume workshops can be particularly valuable - they often have insights about what employers in your area are specifically looking for. Make sure to keep documenting your job search activities each week (the 3 required activities) separate from these WorkSource appointments.
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