How to remove unemployment claim from Washington ESD records permanently?

That's disappointing. So even if I withdraw it, future employers could still see that I filed for unemployment?

Employers typically can't access your unemployment filing history unless you specifically authorize it or they're verifying employment for certain positions. Most background checks don't include unemployment records.

I know there's no shame in it, but I'm applying for jobs in finance where they really scrutinize your financial history. I just want to be cautious.

Finance jobs care more about your credit history and background check than whether you filed for unemployment. Most people have filed at some point.

That's exactly my problem - I can't get through to anyone at Washington ESD to even ask about this. Did the agent give you any options for your situation?

They explained that while you can't remove the record, you can request documentation showing you withdrew voluntarily and never received benefits. That might help with employer concerns.

Never heard of Claimyr before but getting through to Washington ESD is definitely a nightmare. Might be worth checking out if you really need to talk to someone.

Do you know if there's a specific form for withdrawal or is it just a phone call?

It's typically done over the phone, but they may send you paperwork to sign. The key is getting through to someone who can process the withdrawal request properly.

Exactly! The phone system is terrible. Have you tried calling at different times of day?

I've tried everything - early morning, lunch time, late afternoon. Always the same result. Might try that Claimyr thing someone mentioned above.

Pro tip: if you got the job offer before your first payment, make sure to document that timeline. It shows you weren't trying to collect benefits fraudulently.

That's actually reassuring. So most private sector employers wouldn't even know unless I told them?

Correct. Private employers generally can't access unemployment filing records without your explicit consent. They might verify employment dates with previous employers, but that's different.

That's good to hear. I guess I'm overthinking this because it's my first time dealing with unemployment.

yeah youre definitely overthinking it. filing for unemployment is normal and legal

Good point. I didn't think about potentially needing it again. Maybe I should just let it stay inactive instead of withdrawing?

If you're not collecting benefits, the claim will eventually become inactive on its own. You could just stop filing weekly claims and let it lapse naturally.

It goes dormant but stays on record. You have to actively request withdrawal if you want it officially closed. Otherwise it just shows as inactive.

Thanks for clarifying. So withdrawal is more of a formal closure versus just letting it lapse?

That's really helpful information! Did they say how long the withdrawal process takes once you request it?

They said 5-7 business days to process and you'll get a confirmation letter. The agent was actually really helpful once I could get through to someone.

I think I'm going to try Claimyr too. This is too important to keep playing phone tag with the automated system.

how much does it cost? is it worth it just for a withdrawal request?

I think it's worth it when you consider how much time you waste trying to call on your own. Plus you actually get to talk to a real person who knows what they're doing.

Great advice. I'll definitely keep all the paperwork if I go through with the withdrawal.

Also keep records of why you withdrew - job offer letter, start date, etc. Creates a clear paper trail showing you weren't trying to game the system.

Don't let this discourage you from filing if you actually need benefits. The system exists to help people. This is just an unusual situation where someone wants to withdraw.

Yeah, I don't want to scare anyone away from using unemployment benefits if they need them. I just have a very specific situation with my job search.

Good decision. Having official documentation of the withdrawal will give you something concrete to point to if it ever comes up.

Let us know how it goes! I'm planning to withdraw mine too once I start my new job next week.

Make sure to ask about any impact on future eligibility when you call. The agent should be able to explain how withdrawal affects your wage credits and benefit year.