Washington ESD unemployment rates dropping - what caused the decrease unemployment in the 1950s comparison?

The 1950s saw massive economic expansion - post-war manufacturing boom, GI Bill creating educated workforce, suburban development creating construction jobs. Today's different but Washington ESD data does show claim volumes dropping compared to 2022-2023 peaks. Processing times have definitely improved.

If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD to check on processing improvements, I discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com) which helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Made it so much easier to get real information about my claim status.

The 1950s comparison is interesting but not really applicable today. Back then unemployment insurance was much more limited - fewer people qualified, shorter benefit periods. Washington ESD now handles way more complex situations like standby status, job search waivers, different benefit types.

Standby means you're temporarily laid off but your employer expects to recall you within a specific timeframe. You can collect UI benefits but don't have to do job searches. Washington ESD has specific rules about how long standby can last.

HONESTLY the whole system is still broken regardless of historical comparisons. I've been waiting 2 months for my appeal hearing and can't get anyone at Washington ESD to tell me when it's scheduled. At least in the 1950s there weren't automated phone systems designed to hang up on you!!

From what I understand, current unemployment improvements aren't really comparable to the 1950s boom. We're seeing tech job recovery in Seattle area but manufacturing and service sectors still struggling. Washington ESD processing faster because they upgraded systems and hired more staff.

honestly who cares about the 1950s, i just want my benefits processed without having to call 100 times. at least now i can get through occasionally

I work in economics research and the 1950s unemployment drop was multifactorial - Cold War defense spending, interstate highway construction, housing boom, etc. Current Washington state trends show job growth in aerospace and tech but retail/hospitality still recovering from pandemic impacts.

can we get back to practical stuff? like does anyone know if washington esd is still requiring 3 job contacts per week or did they change it?

It's definitely 3 job contacts per week in Washington state. You should contact Washington ESD immediately to clarify your situation - they might require you to make up the missing contacts.

Speaking of job contacts, does volunteering count? I've been volunteering at a food bank and wondering if I can use that.

This whole thread started about historical unemployment and now we're talking job contacts lol. Classic forum tangent. But seriously, anyone else notice Washington ESD customer service seems less overwhelmed lately?

Just want to add that if you're struggling with Washington ESD phone system, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier really does work. Used it twice now and both times got connected to agents who actually helped resolve my issues.

Back to the original question - I think comparing current unemployment to 1950s is like comparing apples to oranges. Different economy, different workforce, different government programs. What matters is that Washington ESD seems to be processing claims more efficiently now.

One thing that's definitely better now than historically - online claim filing. Can you imagine having to go to physical offices for everything like they did decades ago?

Final thought - whether unemployment is decreasing due to 1950s-style economic boom or just better Washington ESD processing, the important thing is people are getting back to work and claims are moving faster. That's progress either way.