What to expect at WorkSource appointment? Will it affect my ESD benefits?

Don't worry too much! WorkSource appointments are generally meant to help you with your job search, not to try to cut your benefits. They'll typically review your job search activities, offer resources like resume help, interview prep, and connect you with potential employers. Just be honest about your job search efforts, bring your job search log if you have one, and be open to their suggestions. These appointments are a required part of maintaining eligibility, but as long as you're actively looking for work, you should be fine.

i had one last month its not a big deal they just want to make sure ur actually looking for work. bring ur job search log and they'll probably give u some resources. took like 30 min tops

I went through this in February 2025. Here's exactly what to expect: 1. They'll review your job search activities (bring documentation of your 3 weekly job search activities) 2. They'll ask about your work history and skills 3. They'll show you how to use their job search tools 4. They'll give you personalized recommendations It's really about helping you find employment, not trying to disqualify you. As long as you've been completing your job search requirements (3 activities per week), you'll be fine and your benefits will continue. They might also connect you with training programs if that's relevant to your situation.

They WILL cut your benefits if you haven't been doing your job searches!!! I know because it happened to me. They checked my job search log and I only had like 1-2 activities some weeks instead of the required 3, and they disqualified me for two weeks. Had to appeal and everything. DON'T MESS AROUND WITH THIS! Make sure you have documentation of EVERYTHING before you go!!!

To answer your follow-up question - yes, screenshots of job application confirmations are acceptable documentation. Also, emails from employers, confirmation numbers, and even notes about networking calls can count as job search activities. Just make sure you have the date, company name, position, and how you applied (online, in person, etc.) for each one. They understand that not everyone keeps perfect records, but try to organize what you have before the appointment.

Btw if you're having trouble reaching ESD to ask questions before your WorkSource appointment, I found this service called Claimyr that got me through to an actual ESD agent in about 20 minutes instead of spending days trying to get through. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 that shows how it works. Talking to an agent directly before my WorkSource appointment really helped clear up my questions and made me less nervous going in.

mine was in person but i think they do virtual ones too. just check ur email again it should say somewhere

I was absolutely terrified of my WorkSource appointment but it ended up being SO HELPFUL! I thought they were going to interrogate me but the lady I met with was super nice and actually found me some job leads that matched my experience. They also showed me how to use their system to search for jobs more effectively. Definitely bring your job search records - even if they're not perfect, showing you're making an effort is what matters most. And YES you keep your benefits as long as you show up and are cooperating with their process!

dont stress about it to much they just wanna help u find work faster so they dont have to pay benefits as long lol

One more important thing: if you haven't been keeping detailed records, start doing so immediately before your appointment. Create a simple spreadsheet or document with: - Date of activity - Company name - Position applied for - Method of application - Any follow-up or response For past activities, reconstruct as best you can from emails, browser history, etc. WorkSource staff understand that not everyone has perfect documentation, but showing that you're making a good faith effort to comply with requirements is crucial. At the appointment, be honest if your record-keeping hasn't been perfect, but emphasize that you've been actively searching and are committed to improving your documentation going forward.

Just wanted to add that if you're feeling overwhelmed about organizing your job search documentation, you can also use the WorkSource website to log your activities retroactively. They have a job search tracking tool that lets you enter past activities as long as you have the basic info (date, company, position). I did this before my appointment and it made everything much smoother. The counselor was impressed that I had everything organized in their system already. Also, don't forget that attending job fairs, networking events, or even informational interviews count as valid job search activities too - not just applications!

I just had my WorkSource appointment last week and wanted to share my experience to hopefully ease some anxiety! The staff member I met with was genuinely focused on helping me succeed in my job search. They reviewed my job search log (which wasn't perfect either), gave me feedback on my resume, and even practiced interview questions with me. The whole thing took about 45 minutes and felt more like career coaching than an interrogation. They also signed me up for a free workshop on LinkedIn optimization. Most importantly - my benefits continued without any issues! As long as you're making a genuine effort to find work and show up prepared, you'll be fine. Bring whatever documentation you have, be honest about your efforts, and try to view it as getting free career support rather than something to fear.