How to answer unemployment claim questions correctly on Washington ESD forms

Thanks! What about the dates? Do they need to be exact or can I approximate if I don't remember the exact day?

Be as accurate as possible. If you're off by a day or two it's usually not a big deal, but don't guess wildly on important dates like your last day of work.

Oh no, I was planning to explain my whole situation in detail. Good thing I asked first!

Yeah, less is more with these forms. They have specific criteria they're looking for.

What if I have some scheduling restrictions due to childcare? Should I mention that?

You can mention reasonable restrictions, but don't make it sound like you're severely limiting your availability. Washington ESD wants to see you're genuinely seeking work.

How does that work exactly? Is it legit?

Yeah it's totally legitimate. They basically handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

That sounds helpful. I'm definitely going to need to talk to someone if my claim gets complicated.

I know it's frustrating, but they have to be specific to determine eligibility properly.

i guess but it makes everything so much harder when you're already stressed about being unemployed

I don't think it's intentionally confusing, but the legal requirements do make the language complex.

Trust me, I've been through this multiple times. Washington ESD is not on your side.

Good idea! I was just going question by question without seeing the big picture.

Same here, that definitely helps you give more consistent answers.

Do I need to list every single job from the past 18 months or just the main ones?

List all employment during the base period they specify. Even short-term jobs matter for your benefit calculation.

Yeah they cross-reference with employer records so accuracy is important.

If you were fired, you need to be honest about that. But you can explain it wasn't for misconduct. That might trigger adjudication though.

Great, so I'm probably going to get delayed no matter what I say.

It means you're physically and mentally capable of working, not sick or dealing with other issues that would prevent you from accepting a job.

Oh okay, that makes more sense. I was overthinking it.

It depends on your situation and local job market. Usually 3-5 job search activities per week, but check the specific requirements for your claim.

Do networking events count as job search activities?

Yes, as long as they're related to finding employment. Keep records of everything you do.

That's exactly why I started using Claimyr. At least you know you're getting through to someone quickly instead of spending all day trying to reach them.

I might have to try that. This process is taking forever.

Why is that important?

If there are any issues or discrepancies later, you'll have proof of what you originally submitted.

If you're still technically a member but not paying dues due to unemployment, mention that. Union status can affect your job search requirements.

Thanks, I'll clarify that in my response.

Which question did you get wrong? I want to make sure I don't make the same mistake.

i said i was available for part time work but then said i was looking for full time. apparently thats inconsistent 🙄

Good point. I'd rather spend time on the phone now than wait weeks for a correction.

Exactly why services like Claimyr are so valuable. They get you through to someone who can actually answer your questions.

I'm thinking about taking some online courses while I'm unemployed. Should I mention that?

Online courses are usually fine as long as they don't interfere with your availability for work. Full-time school is different.

Good luck! Hopefully you won't need to go through adjudication.

Thanks! I tried to be as clear and factual as possible based on what everyone said here.

That's the best approach. Most claims go through without issues if you're honest and complete.

Same here! It's nice to know I'm not the only one who found these questions confusing.

The key is just being honest and factual. Don't overthink it too much.

Oh wow, I didn't even think about that! I just double-checked my routing and account numbers and I'm glad I did - I had written down one number wrong. Thanks for the heads up, that would have been a disaster to deal with on top of everything else.

This is such an important point! I almost made the same mistake - I was rushing through the banking section and nearly entered my old account number from a bank I closed last year. It's worth taking an extra few minutes to verify everything twice, especially since correcting it later seems like such a headache with Washington ESD.

Great advice! I just went through my paperwork and realized I was about to use my checking account number but my savings account routing number. Would have been a mess. It's crazy how many little details can trip you up in this process - between the confusing question wording and now having to worry about banking info accuracy, it feels like there are landmines everywhere.