We continue to receive numerous reports about issues with the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) processing of Local 302 construction unemployment insurance claims.

Read these tips to ensure your unemployment benefits are approved and you are responsive to issues that may arise:

• Always ensure you’re on the Local 302 Out of Work List as soon as you leave employment, and your membership dues are in good standing.
• Choose to receive correspondence via mail AND email to make sure you don’t miss any updates.
• Choose “regular layoff” as opposed to the “stand-by” option. Stand-by claims are often rejected when there is not a specific return to work date.
• If you are at the training center do not check you are in “school”. ESD interprets this as you are going to college and are not ready, willing, and able to return to work. You should always check the “union shop” training option and that you are available for work. 
• If you encounter situations where you are over 6 weeks of pending claims, contact your Field Representative for assistance. 
• If you receive an overpayment statement (you owe money) do not let the appeal timeframe lapse and be sure, if you believe they are incorrect in their findings, to be timely in filing the appeal. 
• After you’re re-employed you still need to frequently log onto e-services and respond to claims questions right away: Employment Security - Login (wa.gov) 

For more information: Unemployed Worker Handbook 2018 (windows.net)