What are the cons of applying for unemployment in Washington - should I be worried?

Oh wow I didn't know about the 3 job searches per week requirement. That seems like a lot, especially if you're being picky about the right fit.

Yeah it's annoying but you get used to it. Just make sure you keep good records because if they audit you and your documentation is lacking, they can make you pay back all the benefits.

I hadn't thought about the tax implications. Do most people have the taxes withheld or just pay at the end of the year?

I'd recommend having them withheld. Better to get a smaller check each week than owe a big chunk at tax time.

This is so true! I spent weeks trying to reach someone when my claim was pending. Finally found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that helped me get through to an actual person. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration.

What's Claimyr exactly? Is it like a service that helps you call Washington ESD?

Yeah, they basically handle the calling and waiting for you. You don't have to sit on hold for hours or keep redialing. Pretty genius actually.

Wait, they don't pay you for the first week? That seems unfair if you're eligible.

Yeah it's called a waiting week. You still have to file the claim for that week but you just don't get paid for it. It's been like that forever.

That's good to know. I was thinking about maybe doing some freelance work while I'm looking for a permanent position.

You can still do freelance work, just make sure you report it accurately on your weekly claims. Washington ESD has specific rules about how much you can earn before it affects your benefits.

The earnings deduction formula is pretty generous actually. You can earn up to your weekly benefit amount plus $5 before they start reducing your benefits dollar for dollar.

I can see how that would be emotionally difficult. I'm already feeling weird about the whole situation.

Don't let anyone make you feel bad about it. You paid into this system through your payroll taxes, so you've earned these benefits.

That sounds scary. How do you protect yourself from that happening?

Keep detailed records of everything - all your weekly claims, any correspondence with Washington ESD, your job search activities. Documentation is your best protection.

And if you do get an overpayment notice, you can appeal it. Don't just assume they're right - sometimes they make calculation errors.

What kind of mistakes did you make? I want to avoid those same problems.

I got confused about the dates and put the wrong last day of work. Also didn't understand the difference between being laid off and fired for misconduct. Take your time with the application.

What day of the week do you have to file by?

You can file starting Sunday morning for the previous week, and you have until the following Saturday to file. I usually do mine on Sunday to get it out of the way.

How do they define suitable work? I'm in software engineering so I'm hoping I don't have to apply to random retail jobs.

For the first few weeks they're pretty reasonable about keeping it in your field, but after a while they expect you to expand your search. Tech workers usually have more flexibility though.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info. I think I'm going to go ahead and apply but at least now I know what to expect.

Good luck! Remember that most people get through the process without major issues. The horror stories get more attention but they're not the norm.

Yeah I figured it wouldn't be close to my full salary. It's really just to help with basic expenses while I job hunt.

Exactly, think of it as a bridge to your next job, not a replacement income. Helps with rent and groceries but that's about it.

That's a good tip about the job alerts. I was wondering how people manage to find three legitimate opportunities every week.

Yeah and networking events count too, or attending job fairs. It doesn't all have to be applications.

That makes sense I guess, but what if you have a doctor's appointment or something?

Medical appointments are usually okay, but you have to be able to explain why you weren't available for work if they ask.

I can imagine that would be really anxiety-provoking. Is there anything you can do to minimize the chances of problems?

Just be completely honest and accurate with everything. Don't try to game the system or hide anything. That's when people get in trouble.

It sounds like calling Washington ESD directly is pretty much hopeless?

Not hopeless but very difficult. They get thousands of calls a day and have limited staff. Services like Claimyr exist because the phone system is so overwhelmed.

My employer seemed pretty understanding about the layoff, so hopefully they won't contest it. Is there a way to know if they're going to?

You'll usually find out within a week or two if they're going to contest. If they do, you'll get a notice from Washington ESD about a hearing or appeal.

That's reassuring. I think I'm overthinking it because it's all new to me.

Totally normal to be nervous about it. Once you get into the rhythm of filing weekly claims and doing your job searches, it becomes routine.

Good point. I'm definitely motivated to find something quickly, but it's good to know the safety net is there.

Exactly the right attitude. Use it as a bridge to your next opportunity, not as a long-term solution.

Thanks for that reminder. My last day is Friday so I'll probably file over the weekend.

Perfect timing. The sooner you get it started, the sooner you'll know if there are any issues to resolve.