Weekly claim only asking for job search confirmation, not employer details - ESD system changed?

This happened to me about 2 weeks ago. From what I understand, ESD is now using a simplified weekly claim questionnaire, but you're still required to keep detailed records of your job search activities. They can request your job search log at any time for verification. You don't need to call them about this change - it's normal and happening to everyone. Just make sure you're documenting everything in case they audit you.

ya they changed it like a month ago. u still gotta keep track of ur job searches tho just in case they ask for proof later. i just use a notebook and write em all down with the date n stuff

Yes, ESD updated their weekly claim filing process in February 2025. The system now only asks for confirmation that you've completed the required job search activities rather than collecting all details each week. However, this doesn't mean the requirements have changed. You must still: 1. Complete 3 job search activities each week 2. Keep detailed records of each activity (employer name, contact method, position, date, etc.) 3. Be prepared to provide your job search log if requested during a review ESD can still conduct random audits where they'll ask you to submit your detailed job search records, so maintaining accurate documentation is crucial. If selected for review, you'll receive a notification in your eServices account with instructions for submitting your records.

You can use the official WorkSource job search log available on the ESD website (https://esd.wa.gov/unemployment/job-search-requirements), or create your own tracking system as long as it includes all required information. The essential details you need to document for each activity are: - Date of activity - Company/employer name - Position applied for - Contact information (website, email, phone, address) - Method of contact (online application, email, in-person, etc.) - Result/outcome (if known) If you're using WorkSource services, they also have digital tracking tools available through your WorkSource account.

dont worry about it ESD just trying to make things LOOK easier but they'll probably still deny ur claim for some BS reason. happened to me when i didnt save screenshots of all my applications even tho nobody told me i needed to. keep EVERYTHING. they're just waiting to deny u

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! I'm relieved to know this is just a system update and not something wrong with my claim. I'll definitely keep tracking my job searches in detail even if they're not asking for it weekly. Does anyone know if they're more likely to audit claims now that they're not collecting the information every week?

I STILL can't even get through to ESD to ask questions about my claim! Been trying for days with no luck - just endless hold times and then disconnection. Has anyone figured out a reliable way to actually speak to a human being there?

Once I got through to a real person, they were able to see exactly what was going on with my claim and fixed the issue while I was on the phone. The whole thing took about 15 minutes once I was connected to an agent. Sometimes you just need someone to look at your specific situation rather than trying to figure it out through their automated systems.

Update: I just found a notice in my eServices account about the change! It was buried in the "Important Messages" section that I rarely check. It explains that they've simplified the weekly claim process but emphasizes that we still need to keep detailed records. Thought I'd share in case anyone else missed it too!