Update: I managed to reach ESD today (used Claimyr after seeing it recommended here - actually worked!). The agent explained that I needed to look specifically under the Training Benefits section in eServices, not the regular UI section. Also found out SEAP participants get connected with Small Business Development Centers for free consulting, which sounds amazing. Going to submit my application this weekend. Will update when I hear back!

Just wanted to add my experience - I was approved for SEAP in 2024 for my consulting business. One thing that really helped my application was including letters of intent from potential clients showing there was actual demand for my services. Also, don't underestimate the entrepreneurial training component - it's not just a formality. The coursework actually covers crucial stuff like tax obligations for self-employed individuals, which is super important since you'll be transitioning off UI benefits eventually. The training providers vary by region, but most offer both online and in-person options. Good luck with your application!

One last important thing to note: If your business progresses to the point where you're getting customers/clients, even if you're not paying yourself yet, you need to report any gross income received by the business on your weekly claims. ESD looks at gross business income, not net profit after expenses. Also, if you've registered your business officially (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.), make sure you understand how that impacts your "able and available" status. Some business structures could potentially affect your eligibility more than others. Best of luck balancing your job search and entrepreneurial journey!

Just wanted to add another perspective as someone who's been through this recently. I was in a similar situation last year - got laid off from a marketing role and wanted to work on my app idea while job searching. What I learned is that ESD really focuses on your "primary activity." If your primary focus is job searching and you can genuinely say you'd drop everything for a good job opportunity, then working on your business in your spare time is usually okay. But if the business becomes your main focus, that's when you run into trouble. I kept a simple rule: no business activities during normal business hours (9-5) unless I had already completed my daily job search tasks. This way I could honestly say I was prioritizing employment and was available during standard interview times. Also, document EVERYTHING. I kept screenshots of job applications, emails with recruiters, and notes from networking calls. When ESD did question me about my availability, having that documentation made all the difference. They could see I was genuinely committed to finding work, not just going through the motions while focusing on my business. Hope this helps! The key is being strategic about how you balance both priorities.

That's a really good point. Looking at my letter more carefully, it does specify

Hey Aiden! Congrats on your appeal win! 🎉 Just wanted to add that when I went through this last year, I actually called ESD about a week after getting my OAH decision just to confirm they had received it and were processing it. The rep told me it was in their "implementation queue" which gave me peace of mind that things were moving along. Also, when your eServices finally updates and shows the back payments, double-check that the amounts match what you calculated you're owed. I caught a small error in my case that would have cost me about $300 if I hadn't noticed. The whole process is exhausting but you're almost at the finish line!

Just to close the loop on this - your dad should absolutely file. Washington has some of the most inclusive unemployment policies in the country. Age is not a barrier.

I'm 62 and went through this exact situation two years ago when I got laid off from a manufacturing job. There's definitely no age limit in Washington - I collected benefits for about 4 months while job hunting. The only thing I'd add is that older workers sometimes need to be extra careful about documenting their job search activities since ESD can be pretty strict about that requirement. Keep detailed records of every application, networking event, and job fair you attend. Also, don't get discouraged if the job search takes longer - the benefits are there to support you while you find the right fit, not just any job.

This is a good point. In 2025, ESD is being especially strict about the able and available requirement. They want to see that you're not turning down potential full-time work in favor of keeping partial unemployment benefits combined with part-time 1099 work. They've been conducting more eligibility reviews this year focusing on this exact issue.

Thanks everyone for all this detailed info! I'm feeling much more confident about potentially taking this 1099 position now. Just to make sure I have everything straight: I need to report earnings for the week I do the work (not when paid), keep detailed weekly records, continue my 3 job search activities, stay available for full-time work, and understand that ESD deducts dollar-for-dollar after the first $5. If the math works out where I can still get some partial benefits while building experience with this contract work, it sounds like it could be a good bridge until I find full-time employment. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences - this community is so helpful!