Bottom line - keep detailed records, be honest about your job search activities, and don't try to game the system. The audits are real and the penalties for not having documentation are severe.

I've been on unemployment for about 3 months and this thread is making me realize I need to step up my documentation game. I've been keeping basic records but nothing as detailed as what you all are describing. Does anyone have a template or specific format they use for tracking their work search activities? I want to make sure I'm capturing all the right information in case I get selected for an audit.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses! Sounds like I need to register for unemployment taxes since I'll be a regular business with employees. Going to get that process started this week and make sure I'm compliant from day one.

Just wanted to add something I learned recently - even if you think you might qualify for an exemption, Washington ESD requires you to apply for that exemption formally. You can't just assume you're exempt and not register. I made this mistake with a nonprofit I helped start, thinking we were automatically exempt, but we still had to file paperwork to get the exemption approved. The application process takes time too, so it's better to start early if you think you might qualify.

I'm in a somewhat similar boat - just accepted a position that starts in 6 weeks but my UI benefits expired last month. Reading through all these responses has been incredibly helpful! One thing I'm wondering about that I haven't seen mentioned yet - should we notify ESD immediately when we actually start the job, or just report it on our next weekly claim? I want to make sure I don't accidentally create any overpayment issues by continuing to claim after I've technically started working. Also, has anyone had experience with how ESD handles the transition week when you might work only a few days? Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences - this thread is a goldmine of practical advice!

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is that you might want to screenshot or save a copy of your job offer email/letter with the start date clearly visible. I had a situation where ESD requested documentation during my claim review, and having that readily available made the process much smoother. Also, if your employer has given you any formal communication about the training requirements or timeline, keep that handy too. Sometimes ESD wants to verify that the delay is employer-initiated rather than something you're choosing to postpone. It sounds like you're being really thoughtful about doing everything correctly, which is exactly the right approach. The whole process can feel overwhelming, but everyone here has given you solid advice about transparency and documentation. You've got this!

Update on waiver processing: As of last month, ESD is prioritizing waivers where claimants have received collection notices or where financial hardship is severe. It might help to update your waiver application through your ESD account messaging - explain your current situation and that you're receiving collection threats. For everyone in this thread, be aware that there's also an enhanced hardship waiver option now that has different criteria than the standard waiver. If your standard waiver is denied, you may still qualify for the hardship version.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful information! I finally got through to ESD today (used that Claimyr service someone mentioned - it actually worked!). The agent confirmed my waiver is still being processed and put a temporary hold on collection activities for 30 days. They said current processing times are 10-12 weeks for waivers, so I probably have at least another month to wait. But at least I know it's in their system and I won't have wages garnished while waiting. I'll update this thread when I finally get a decision. Fingers crossed they approve it - there's absolutely no way I can repay $4,750 with my current financial situation.

Based on current ESD processing timelines, here's what you should expect with overpayment waivers: * Acknowledgment letter: 1-2 weeks after submission * Initial review: 10-12 weeks after submission * Final determination: 16-20 weeks after submission The best strategy while waiting is to: 1. Request a hold on collections actions while your waiver is pending 2. Check your online correspondence folder at least weekly 3. If you approach the 20-week mark, that's when you should escalate by contacting your state representative In most cases, reaching out earlier won't expedite the process as they review applications in the order received. However, if you're facing imminent wage garnishment or tax intercept, that's considered a hardship case that can be prioritized.

I'm in a very similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful! I submitted my overpayment waiver back in August for $4,100 and I'm still waiting. Reading everyone's experiences gives me hope that I should hear something soon since I'm approaching the 16-week mark. I did get an acknowledgment letter, so at least I know it's in the system. Has anyone had success with requesting that collections hold while the waiver is pending? I'm worried about them starting garnishment before my waiver gets processed. Also planning to try that direct collections number tomorrow - thanks for sharing that resource!