How can Washington ESD verify if I have looked for work - worried about my job search log

Washington ESD can absolutely verify your job search activities. They have several ways to check: they can contact employers you claim to have applied with, cross-reference online application systems, and they sometimes do random audits where they ask for documentation. You need to keep detailed records including company names, dates, contact information, and method of application.

yeah they totally check this stuff randomly. my friend got audited and had to provide like 3 months of job search logs with proof. apparently they called a couple places he applied to verify

I had issues with Washington ESD questioning my job search efforts last year. Spent weeks trying to get through to someone to explain the situation. Finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually reach an agent who could review my case properly. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Made the whole process so much easier than sitting on hold for hours.

The verification process varies but they typically look for patterns that don't make sense. If you're claiming to apply to 20 jobs a week but they're all at companies that aren't hiring, or if your applications don't match your skills/experience, that raises red flags. The key is being genuine about your search.

OMG this is giving me so much anxiety! I've been keeping a notebook but what if it's not detailed enough?? What if they think I'm lying about something when I'm not??

I work in HR and we do get calls from Washington ESD occasionally asking to verify if someone applied for a position. It's not super common but it definitely happens. We just confirm yes or no, we don't get into details about why they weren't hired or anything.

the washington esd website has a whole section about job search requirements if you dig around. think its under the claimant handbook or something

Just be honest and thorough with your documentation. I keep a simple spreadsheet with company name, position, date applied, how I applied (online, in person, etc.), and any follow-up. Takes 2 minutes per application and gives me peace of mind.

The whole system is ridiculous honestly. You're already stressed about finding work and they make you jump through all these hoops to prove you're actually trying. Like we want to be unemployed forever...

Been through this process twice in my career. They can and will verify, but in my experience they're reasonable about it. Had one audit where I had to submit my job search log and they accepted it without issue. Just keep good records and you'll be fine.

Another thing - if you do get selected for an audit or have questions about your job search requirements, definitely try to talk to an actual person at Washington ESD rather than just guessing. That's where something like Claimyr really helps since their regular phone system is so frustrating.

Pro tip: if you're using WorkSource or other official job search sites, they sometimes keep records of your activity that can serve as backup documentation if needed.

I got questioned about my job search once because I applied to a bunch of remote positions and they thought it was suspicious that none were local. Had to explain that my field has lots of remote work opportunities. Took forever to sort out.

honestly just keep doing what youre doing and document everything. most people never get audited anyway

From a practical standpoint, save email confirmations when you apply online, take photos of help wanted signs if you apply in person, keep business cards from job fairs - basically any evidence that shows you were actively looking.

My cousin works for Washington ESD and she says they mostly focus on people who claim unrealistic numbers of applications or whose search patterns don't make sense. Like applying to be a rocket scientist one day and a fry cook the next with no relevant experience for either.

Bottom line - if you're genuinely looking for work and keeping honest records, you shouldn't worry too much. But if you do run into issues or need clarification on requirements, getting through to speak with someone at Washington ESD directly is really important. Services like Claimyr can save you the headache of trying to navigate their phone system.

remember they want you to find work too, so as long as youre making genuine effort they shouldnt give you trouble

One last thing - if you're in a specialized field, it might be worth noting that in your job search log. Explains why you might have fewer applications or why they're all similar types of positions.

Been following this thread and learned a lot. Thanks for asking the question OP, I was wondering the same thing!

As someone who's been through multiple unemployment periods, I can confirm that Washington ESD does verify job search activities, but they're generally reasonable about it. The key things that have helped me avoid issues: 1) Keep a detailed spreadsheet with company name, position title, application date, method of contact, and any follow-up actions. 2) Save screenshots of online application confirmations - these are gold if you ever need proof. 3) Focus your search on positions that match your skills/experience level - random applications to unrelated jobs can raise red flags. 4) If you do get selected for review, don't panic. As long as you've been genuinely searching and have documentation, the process is straightforward. Most audits I've heard about were resolved quickly when people had proper records.