How to show unemployment you are looking for a job - Washington ESD documentation?

Do I need to submit this log with my weekly claim or just keep it in case they ask?

Keep it for your records. Washington ESD can audit your work search activities at any time, so having detailed documentation is crucial.

That's actually really smart! I never thought about screenshotting the actual job postings.

Thanks for the detail example! That's way more specific than what I was doing. How does that Claimyr thing work exactly?

It basically navigates through Washington ESD's phone system automatically and connects you when an agent becomes available. Saved me hours of trying to call repeatedly.

I registered but haven't really used it much. Should I be applying through their system?

You don't have to apply through WorkSourceWA exclusively, but using their services counts toward your work search requirements. They also have workshops and career counseling that qualify.

The WorkSourceWA workshops are actually pretty helpful, and they count as work search activities even if you don't apply for jobs that day.

I know it's frustrating, but Washington ESD accepts your documentation at face value unless they have reason to audit. Just keep detailed records of your attempts.

I guess that makes sense. I just worry they'll think I'm making stuff up if companies don't respond.

LinkedIn networking can count, but you need to be more active than just sending connection requests. Engaging in meaningful conversations about job opportunities or industry insights would be better documentation.

ok cool, i've been messaging people about openings so that should work

Can you share what your spreadsheet looks like? I'm trying to figure out the best format.

Sure - Date | Company Name | Position Title | Application Method | Contact Person/Email | Notes. The Notes section is where I put job posting numbers or any follow-up actions.

Standby status is different - you're temporarily laid off but expect to return to your job. You typically don't need to do work searches while on standby, but you need to remain available for recall.

Ok good, I was worried I was missing something. My employer said it should just be a few weeks.

I had the same problem until someone suggested Claimyr to me. It's this service that calls Washington ESD for you and gets you connected to an actual person. Finally got my questions answered after weeks of trying on my own.

Is that legit? I'm getting desperate here.

Yeah it's real. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo showing exactly how it works. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

Oh no! What happened during the audit? What did they ask for?

They wanted specific dates, company names, job titles, and proof of application. I had some of it but not detailed enough. Had to appeal and it was a whole mess.

This is exactly why I save everything - confirmation emails, screenshots, even photos of help wanted signs if I inquire in person.

Yes, job fairs definitely count! Make sure to document which companies you spoke with and what positions you discussed. Get business cards if possible.

awesome, thanks! should be easier than online applications

How do you document informational interviews? Just the person's name and company?

I write down their name, title, company, date we met, and a brief summary of what we discussed. Sometimes these lead to actual job opportunities too.

Research alone typically doesn't count unless it leads to an actual application or contact. But researching companies before applying or reaching out does support your other work search activities.

ok that makes sense, i need to be more active about actually applying then

Volunteer work generally doesn't count as work search activity, but volunteering in your field can help with networking and skill development. The key is you still need to do actual job searching.

got it, so volunteer work is good but doesn't replace the job search requirement

If you're receiving unemployment benefits, you generally need to be available for and actively seeking employment. Self-employment activities need to be reported and could affect your benefits. This is definitely something to clarify with Washington ESD directly.

I tried calling about this exact situation and couldn't get through. Finally used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier - they got me connected in about 20 minutes instead of me calling all day.

Same here! This thread has been super helpful. I had no idea I needed to be so detailed.

Glad this helped people! Job searching is stressful enough without worrying about documentation.