What counts as a work search activity for Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

Thanks! Do I need to keep records of all these activities?

Yes, keep detailed records with dates, company names, contact info, and what you did. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time.

Each individual job application counts as one activity, but you still need 3 per week minimum. Applying to 10 a day is great but make sure you're keeping good records of each one.

ok good to know, wasn't sure if there was a limit or something

I had the same problem trying to reach Washington ESD about my work search requirements. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to unemployment agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling and actually got me connected to someone who could answer my questions.

Interesting, never heard of that before. Did they charge you a lot for it?

They focus more on the value of actually reaching an agent rather than the cost. For me it was worth it since I was spending so much time trying to call on my own.

This is super helpful! What about things like researching companies or industries?

Research by itself usually doesn't count, but if you contact the company as part of your research then that would count as a work search contact.

Yes, WorkSource workshops and services definitely count as work search activities. Make sure you get documentation from them showing you attended.

awesome, they gave me a certificate thing so i should be good

Oh wow, that sounds stressful! What kind of documentation did they want to see?

Screenshots of job applications, email confirmations, business cards from networking events, certificates from workshops, etc. Basically proof that each activity actually happened.

damn that's intense, good thing i've been screenshotting everything

Should I be applying for jobs that are below my skill level or pay grade?

Washington ESD generally expects you to look for suitable work first, but after a certain period you may need to expand your search. Check with them about what's considered 'suitable' for your situation.

I understand the frustration, but the work search requirement is meant to ensure people are actively looking for work while receiving benefits. It's actually required by federal law, not just Washington state.

I guess that makes sense, it's just overwhelming when you're already stressed about being unemployed

That's great to hear! What did they clarify for you?

Mainly that informal networking (like reaching out to former colleagues) counts as long as you document it properly. I was only counting formal applications before.

That's a great idea! Do you have a template you could share?

I just use a basic Excel sheet with columns for Date, Company, Contact Person, Method (online, phone, in-person), Position, and Notes. Nothing fancy but it works.

Volunteer work itself doesn't count as a work search activity, but if you're networking with people there or it leads to job contacts, those interactions could count. The key is that it has to be directed toward finding employment.

Got it, so the networking aspect could count but not just the volunteering itself.

That's good perspective. Have you had any luck with your search?

Getting some interviews now, so things are looking up. The work search requirement actually did help me stay focused and organized.

I totally get that frustration - that's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. The phone system at Washington ESD is overwhelmed and it's nearly impossible to get through during normal business hours.

Maybe I should look into that. This is ridiculous that we have to pay extra just to reach the people who are supposed to help us.

This breakdown is really helpful! I feel much more confident about what to report now.

Glad it helps! The key is being proactive and documenting everything as you go, not trying to remember later.

If it's genuinely a separate posting or reposting, then yes it could count as separate activities. But be careful not to abuse this - Washington ESD looks for genuine job search efforts.

Makes sense, I was thinking more about when companies repost the same job a month later, not trying to game the system.

That's a good point from the employer side. Do you think it hurts someone's chances if you know they're on unemployment?

Not at all - lots of good candidates are between jobs. What matters is showing genuine interest and being qualified for the role.

You're welcome! The most important thing is to stay consistent with your job search and keep good records. You'll get the hang of it.

definitely going to start that spreadsheet idea and be more organized about everything

Good to know! What would you consider 'substantial' updates?

Like completely rewriting sections, adding new skills or experience, or major formatting changes. Not just fixing a typo or two.

That's exactly the right attitude! Once you get into a routine with it, the work search requirements become second nature.

Agreed! Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice. I feel much better prepared now.

This is such valuable advice! I've been so focused on just hitting the 3 activity minimum that I wasn't really thinking about the quality aspect. Your point about keeping research notes for each application is really smart - it shows genuine interest and would definitely help in interviews too. I'm going to start doing that approach instead of just rapid-fire applications. Thanks for sharing your experience!