How many job searches are required for unemployment benefits in Washington?

Thank you! Do I need to submit proof of these searches with my weekly claim or just keep records?

Just keep detailed records for now. Washington ESD can audit your job searches at any time, so you'll want documentation of what you did, when, and where you applied.

No, it's definitely 3 job search activities per week for most claimants. The requirement might be different if you're in certain programs or have special circumstances, but standard is 3.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr.com - they help you get through to Washington ESD agents by phone. I was able to speak with someone within a few hours instead of spending days trying to call. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

What exactly counts as a qualifying activity then? I want to make sure I'm doing the right things.

Valid activities include: submitting job applications, attending job fairs, participating in WorkSource workshops, networking events, creating or updating professional profiles like LinkedIn, and informational interviews. Just browsing doesn't count.

I understand the frustration, but you can focus your searches on suitable work. Washington ESD defines suitable work based on your skills, experience, and wage history. You don't have to apply for jobs that are completely unrelated to your field.

Volunteer work itself doesn't count as a job search activity, but volunteering that helps with professional networking or skill development might qualify. You'd need to document how it relates to your job search efforts.

Doing more than the minimum requirement is always good and shows you're actively seeking work. Just make sure you document everything properly - quality matters more than quantity though.

You actually got through to someone? That's amazing. I've been trying for weeks to get clarification on my job search requirements for my specific situation.

If you're on standby status with a definite recall date within 8 weeks, you may be exempt from job search requirements. However, you still need to be available for work and report any job offers or work performed.

That's a great idea. Is there a specific format they want or is a simple spreadsheet okay?

They don't specify a format as long as you have all the required information: date, employer name, position, method of contact, and results. A spreadsheet works perfectly.

That's correct! Networking events, professional association meetings, and career fairs all qualify. Just make sure you document who you met with and how it relates to your job search.

Missing job search requirements can result in a denial of benefits for that week. If it happens repeatedly, you could face a disqualification. Washington ESD may send a warning first depending on your claim history, but it's not guaranteed.

Updating your resume by itself typically doesn't count as a job search activity. However, if you're working with a career counselor or attending a resume workshop at WorkSource, that could qualify as an activity.

Job search audits can happen randomly or if there are questions about your claim. There's no set schedule - some people never get audited, others get checked multiple times. The key is always being prepared with proper documentation.

Same here! I feel much more confident about my job search activities now. Good luck with your claim!

That's solid advice. I started looking at contract positions in addition to full-time jobs to make sure I had enough applications each week.

Good point! I haven't had any offers yet but I'll definitely report them if I do. Don't want any issues with my claim.