Based on everything in this thread, I think your best approach is to: 1. Document the offer completely 2. Report it accurately on your weekly claim 3. Be prepared to explain specifically why it doesn't meet the 80% threshold at your current stage 4. Try to speak directly with an ESD representative for clarity (using Claimyr or other means to get through) 5. Continue your job search efforts at the same or increased intensity The system is designed to help people find suitable employment, not force them into jobs that represent a major regression in their career or financial stability. Just make sure you follow all the proper procedures so your benefits remain protected.

I went through something similar about 8 months ago. The key thing that saved me was getting everything in writing and being very specific about WHY the job wasn't suitable when I reported it. Don't just say "low pay" - calculate the exact percentage difference and mention other factors like the increased work days. In my case, I declined a job that was 40% less than my previous wage at the 14-week mark. ESD initially flagged it for review, but because I had documented everything properly and could show it was well below the 80% threshold for my timeframe, they approved my continued benefits without any issues. Also, if this employer is pressuring you for a quick answer, remember that you have the right to reasonable time to consider any job offer. Don't let them rush you into a decision before you've had time to calculate all the financial implications and document everything properly.

To summarize and clear up any remaining confusion: 1. Shared Work benefits ARE reduced by your earnings (75% deduction formula) 2. You MUST report ALL earnings including tips 3. Job search requirements apply UNLESS your employer has standby status 4. Your employer must submit Shared Work claims showing your reduced hours 5. You still must file your weekly claim in addition to what your employer submits The main advantage of Shared Work over regular UI is that you can work more hours while still getting some benefits, and you maintain your connection to your employer. It's a great program when understood correctly!

Just wanted to add my experience as someone who's been on Shared Work for almost 6 months now. The most important thing is to be completely honest about ALL your earnings - I've seen too many people get in trouble thinking they could hide cash tips or side work. Also, keep detailed records of everything you report because if ESD ever audits your claim, you'll need to show proof. I use a simple spreadsheet tracking my hours, base wages, tips, and what I reported each week. It's saved me so much stress knowing I have everything documented properly. The program really does help bridge the gap when hours get cut, but only if you follow the rules exactly!

Congratulations Oliver! That's fantastic news about winning your appeal. I went through something similar last year and the relief is incredible. One thing I wish someone had told me - keep detailed records of everything during the implementation phase too. Screenshot your online account status, save any emails or letters you receive, and document any phone calls you make. If anything goes wrong during the back pay processing, having that paper trail can save you from starting over. Also, the back pay might come in chunks rather than one lump sum depending on how your claim was structured, so don't panic if you don't see the full amount right away. Wishing you a smooth implementation process!

Congratulations Oliver! This is such great news and gives hope to all of us dealing with ESD appeals. I'm currently in week 5 of waiting for my own appeal decision, so seeing success stories like yours really helps keep me motivated. Quick question - did you have legal representation for your hearing or did you represent yourself? I'm trying to decide if I should get help or if having good documentation like you mentioned is enough. Also, thank you to everyone sharing practical advice about the implementation process - I'm taking notes on all of this for when (hopefully) I get good news too!

As a quick follow-up - besides the Health Benefit Exchange, also check if your previous employer is required to offer COBRA continuation coverage. It's usually expensive but provides the exact same coverage you had before. Also, once your adjudication is complete and your claim is approved, make sure to update your income information with the Health Benefit Exchange so your subsidies are calculated correctly.

That's great news about finding an affordable plan! $137/month is so much better than $780 for COBRA. Just a heads up - when you apply, make sure to select "Loss of other health coverage" as your qualifying life event so you can enroll outside of open enrollment. Also, if your chronic condition requires specific doctors or specialists, double-check that they're in the plan's network before you finalize. You can usually find provider directories on the insurance company's website. Hope your adjudication gets resolved soon too - the whole process is such a stress when you're dealing with health issues on top of everything else!

I went through this exact same situation a few months ago and can confirm what others have said - it's a mandatory one-week waiting period for all regular unemployment benefits in Washington. The key thing that saved me a lot of stress was understanding that this waiting period is built into the system, not a sign that something is wrong with your claim. I'd recommend checking your eServices account regularly to make sure your weekly claims are being processed correctly. Also, if you're like me and need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your specific situation, don't waste time trying to call during peak hours (Monday mornings are the worst). I found early mornings or late afternoons work better, though even then it can take multiple attempts. The waiting period definitely stings when you're already dealing with job loss, but at least you know exactly what to expect timeline-wise. Hang in there!

I just want to echo what everyone else has said about the one-week waiting period being mandatory - it's definitely frustrating but totally normal. One thing that helped me when I was in your shoes was setting up direct deposit right away if you haven't already. Even though you won't get paid for that first week, having direct deposit ready means your payments from week 2 onward will hit your account faster than waiting for a debit card or check. Also, make sure you're keeping detailed records of all your job search activities from day one, including during the waiting period week. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time, and you don't want to be scrambling to recreate that information later. The whole system feels designed to be confusing, but once you get into the rhythm of weekly filings it becomes routine. You've got this!