How does SEAP work with WA unemployment? Can I start a business while on UI?

SEAP lets u start ur business while on UI and u dont have to look for work. But u have to qualify and spots r limited. Check the ESD website under 'training benefits' section.

I went through SEAP in 2025 when starting my marketing business. Here's what you need to know: 1. SEAP waives the job search requirement so you can focus on building your business instead of applying for jobs 2. You'll need to complete entrepreneurial training through an approved provider 3. You continue receiving your regular UI benefits during this time 4. You must be identified as likely to exhaust your benefits (this is determined by ESD through their profiling system) 5. You need to have a viable business plan 6. There are limited spots available, so apply early The application process starts by logging into your eServices account, selecting the "Training Benefits" section, and then choosing SEAP as your training type. You'll need to complete the forms and wait for approval. The most important part is demonstrating that your business concept is viable and that you're ready to fully commit to it.

I applied for SEAP last year and got rejected cause they said I wasn't "likely to exhaust benefits" whatever that means. The whole system is rigged if you ask me. Total waste of time.

Hi there! I'm actually helping someone with SEAP right now. An important detail: SEAP is limited to individuals who are eligible for regular UI benefits only - not pandemic programs. You also need to be within the first 16 weeks of your claim. The "likely to exhaust benefits" part isn't something you need to prove - ESD has an algorithm that determines this based on your work history and other factors. If you qualify, they'll notify you. One major benefit of SEAP is you can work full-time on your business while receiving benefits, which isn't normally allowed with UI. The required entrepreneurial training is quite helpful too - it covers business planning, marketing, financials, etc. Just be aware that not everyone who applies gets accepted, as funding is limited. Also, once accepted, you'll need to submit regular reports about your business development activities.

I've been trying to reach ESD about SEAP for TWO WEEKS and keep getting disconnected!!! Has anyone found a way to actually talk to a human being there? This is so frustrating I'm about to give up on the whole thing.

Regarding the approval timeline - in my experience, SEAP applications typically take 2-3 weeks to process. However, I've seen it take longer during busy periods. While waiting for approval, continue submitting your weekly claims and completing your job search activities as required. You must maintain eligibility for regular unemployment until you're officially accepted into SEAP. Once approved, you'll receive a notification in your eServices account, and your weekly job search requirements will be automatically waived. You'll then need to register for the entrepreneurial training within a specific timeframe (usually 15 days). One important note: even if approved for SEAP, you still need to be able and available for work technically - you're just redirecting that availability toward self-employment rather than traditional employment.

my friend tried to do SEAP but got denied cuz his business plan wasnt solid. make sure u have good financial projections and marketing strategy.

Ok I'm confused about something... if I apply for SEAP but get rejected, will this affect my regular unemployment benefits in any way? I'm interested in starting a business but I CANNOT risk losing my UI right now. Has anyone been rejected but continued getting regular benefits without issues?

Update: I managed to reach ESD today (used Claimyr after seeing it recommended here - actually worked!). The agent explained that I needed to look specifically under the Training Benefits section in eServices, not the regular UI section. Also found out SEAP participants get connected with Small Business Development Centers for free consulting, which sounds amazing. Going to submit my application this weekend. Will update when I hear back!