Washington ESD unemployment rules - what are the actual requirements I need to follow?

Thanks! Do I need to keep receipts or anything for the job searches?

Yes definitely keep a job search log with company names, dates, positions applied for, and contact method. Washington ESD can audit this anytime.

What counts as 'suitable work'? Can I be picky about jobs or do I have to take anything?

Generally has to be in your field or pay similar to your previous job for the first few weeks, but the standards get looser the longer you're unemployed.

That sounds helpful, I've already tried calling twice and couldn't get through either time.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already stretched thin on unemployment.

It's worth it when you need actual answers fast. Way better than sitting on hold all day or getting your calls dropped.

What happens if I accidentally miss filing one week?

You can usually file a late claim within 4 weeks, but you'll need to explain why it was late. Don't make it a habit.

I missed a week once and they made me do a whole interview about it. Such a pain.

They absolutely do check and if you get caught lying you'll be disqualified and have to pay everything back plus penalties. Don't risk it.

Yeah they audit job search logs regularly. I know someone who got hit with an overpayment because they couldn't prove their job contacts were real.

Depends how long you've been unemployed. First 6 weeks you can refuse jobs that pay less than 80% of your previous wage. After that the threshold drops.

I turned down a job that was half my old salary in my first month and Washington ESD said it was fine. But document everything!

That's exactly what I'm worried about! What was the reason they gave?

They said I didn't provide enough detail in my job search log. Even though I had dates, company names, everything. Took forever to get it resolved.

That's when Claimyr really helps - getting through to someone who can actually look at your case instead of waiting weeks for a callback.

Good idea about the screenshots. How long do I need to keep those?

I keep mine for at least a year. You never know when Washington ESD might question something from months ago.

It needs to be 3 separate job contacts. You can apply to multiple positions at the same company but each application counts as one contact, not three.

Ok that makes sense. And do online applications count the same as in-person?

Yes, online applications count. Just make sure you keep detailed records of what you applied for and when.

Oh wow I didn't know that. Good thing I haven't had any work yet.

Yeah and report it for the week you earned it, not when you got paid. The timing matters.

That's reassuring. I'm probably overthinking it because it's my first time.

totally normal to be nervous your first time. just follow the rules and you'll be fine

I wasn't put on standby, they said the layoff was permanent. So I guess regular rules apply to me.

Yeah then you'll need to do the full job search. But at least you know what to expect now.

What kind of notices do they send?

Could be anything - requests for more info, notification of overpayments, appointment letters for phone interviews. Always respond within the deadline they give you.

Seems like a lot of people have had good luck with that service.

I'm still skeptical about paying for something like that but if it actually works...

I was skeptical too until I spent 6 hours on hold one day and got nowhere. Sometimes you gotta pay for convenience.

That's good advice. I'll definitely ask if I'm unsure about anything.

Perfect! I'm saving this list. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice.

Good luck with your claim! The first few weeks are always the most stressful but you'll get into a routine.