1. Exempt Employee Transition Workshop
Updated 2/2014
Welcome and thank you for viewing this transition information for exempt employees.
These resources and information is to better prepare you for the transition you are facing and decisions you will need to make.
Going through job transition is stressful…hopefully having this information will eliminate some of the stress and help you move forward.

2. Welcome
Today’s session was developed in partnership with the following:
Department of Enterprise Services
OFM/State Human Resources Division
Public Employee Benefits Board / Health Care Authority
WorkSource
Employment Security
Department of Retirement Systems
Most of us at this point have been affected by the economy and employment transition or know someone who has – when it comes to handling this type of situation everyone handles it differently.
Some will be ready to start a new job search right away and others will want to wait awhile before they are ready to begin. That’s why we’ve put together these information packets and sessions so you will have the information when you’re ready.
Participants today include representatives from: Department of Enterprise Services, including a representative from EAP- the Employee Assistance Program, Office of Financial Management/Office of the State Human Resource Director, Health Care Authority, Employment Security-including WorkSource & Unemployment Insurance, & Department of Retirement Systems.

3. Agenda Office of the State Human Resource Director
Exempt employee return rights
Department of Enterprise Services – layoff lists, careers.wa.gov
Health Care Authority – maintaining health benefits
WorkSource - job search resources
Employment Security - Unemployment Insurance
Employee Assistance Program
Change and stress management
Retirement Systems
Managing your retirement and deferred compensation
Here is the agenda for today, so you know what to expect.
Each participating agency has a representative here to talk about their specialty areas. Please note we might not be able to answer specific questions about your individual situation during this session, because each situation differs depending on your career path with the state.

4. Does an employee have “exempt return rights?”
Laws (RCWs) and rules (WACs) were adopted in the early 1970s to encourage classified employees to accept exempt appointments by providing an assurance of continued employment after the termination of the exempt appointment.
Any permanent employee who was appointed to an exempt position from a classified position without a break in service has a return right (unless the exempt appointment is ended for reasons of gross misconduct).
Classified service includes higher education service, Washington general service and Washington management service.
In the early 70’s, state employees in classified positions were encouraged to accept exempt appointments.
RCWs and WACs were adopted to provide assurance of return rights.
Employees appointed to an exempt position who held permanent status in a classified position (with no break in service) have return rights.
Classified service includes higher education (2 year & 4 year schools), WA general service and Washington Management Service (WMS).

5. When must an employee apply to return to classified service from exempt service?
Employee must apply to return to classified service within calendar days of separation from employment in the exempt position.
Employee who applies for return to classified service within 30 calendar days must be returned to a position at the time of separation from the exempt appointment or the time of application, whichever is later.
You must apply to return to classified service within 30 calendar days of separation from your exempt position.
Employees who apply within the 30 calendar days must be returned to position at the time of separation from their exempt appt or the time of application…whichever is later.

6. What is an employee’s exempt return right?
Employee’s right is to be returned to the “highest class of position previously held, or to a position of similar nature and salary.”
“Class” means classification, e.g. Forester 2 or WMS Band 1
“Similar in Nature” means work that is generally similar to the functions performed in the highest class of position previously held
“Similar in Salary” means the same salary range of the highest classification of position
A position in the “highest class” does not necessarily mean return to the most recent employer or the exact position previously held.
Your right is a return to the ‘highest class of position previously held or to a position of similar nature and salary’.
A position in the highest class does not mean return to the most recent employer or the exact position previously held.

7. …if an employee is returning from exempt service and the employer does not have a funded vacant position?
An employee with return rights must be returned to a position. If the employer does not have a funded vacant position in the highest class held or a funded vacant position of similar nature and salary, the employer must:
Return the employee to a filled position (i.e. double-fill a position) and the least senior incumbent (or the employee with the lowest employment retention rating) is laid off; or
Establish a position to return the employee to and implement a layoff since the position is not funded.
If you exercise your return rights and the employer does not have a funded vacant position to return you to your return could result in a layoff of the least senior incumbent.

8. Frequently Asked Questions
If I went from a classified position to an exempt position then to another exempt position will I still have return rights?
Yes, as long as there were no breaks in service.
What happens if my former agency no longer exists?
The Human Resource Office will research where the work you performed in the classified position went.
What salary will I be returned to?
The base salary must not be less than your previous base salary in classified service, adjusted according to any changes in salary range.
Exempt employees who have never held classified status or who had a break in service prior to their exempt appointment, do not have a “right of return”.

9. Return Rights Flow Chart
Exempt Appointment Ended
Exempt Return Rights?
No further rights
Appointment into classified service No
Yes
Appointment into classified service
Separation
More than one person in position or unfunded position?
Employee consults with Human Resource Manager on options, such as job search, retirement, and unemployment.
Yes
Layoff Process No
Done

10. Resources The State Human Resources Division at OFM
“Guide for Transition of Exempt Employees” at:
Contact the OFM Rules Office:
or (360)

11. Layoff
In some cases your return from exempt status may result in a layoff (i.e. you are the least senior incumbent). If this is the case the employer will provide you with a layoff letter outlining your rights.
If you held permanent status in classified service at the time of your exempt appointment and are laid off (as the least senior incumbent) you may be eligible for placement on the:
Layoff List
General Government Transition Pool (GGTP)
If you exercise your return rights and the employer does not have a funded vacant position to return you to your return could result in a layoff of the least senior incumbent.

12. Layoff Lists
Internal layoff list - contains names of eligible employees who have been laid off from a specific agency or institution.
For placement on list check with your agency
Statewide layoff list – contains names of eligible employees who have been laid off from all other agencies or institutions.
For placement on list your layoff letter and a copy of your resume to Department of Enterprise Services
Eligibility - 2 years from layoff effective date
Check your CBA as some unions have bargained for a 3 year eligibility period for Internal Layoff list.
Agencies access these lists for potential candidates for their open positions via the online recruiting system at careers.wa.gov.
Since other agencies may also employ people with the competencies, skills and abilities you possess, you can improve your opportunities to be rehired after layoff by getting on these lists for the job classes for which you qualify (those job classes you held permanent status in).

13. General Government Transition Pool (GGTP)
Resource for general government employees at risk of, or who have been laid off from state employment.
Skill based pool maintained by Department of Enterprise Services.
Contact your human resource office to determine eligibility.
Washington Management Service (WMS) employees may be
eligible.
Eligibility - 2 years from layoff effective date.
Layoff lists are designed to get employees back to the job class they are laid off from, the General Government Transition Pool (GGTP) is to keep them employed. Candidates are referred by skill set, rather than job class so you can be referred to positions you might not have held permanent status in, but rather to those you meet the skill set for.
If you held permanent status in classified service at the time of your exempt appointment and you exercise your return right and are laid off (as the least senior incumbent) you might want to discuss getting in the General Government Transition Pool with your employer.

14. What options do employees without return rights have?
Exempt employees who have never held classified status or who had a break in service prior to their exempt appointment, do not have a “right of return”.
However, there are several other options for you to consider.
WMS has flexible hiring processes and includes management and policy positions that you may be well suited.
Exempt openings in other agencies, higher education institutions, or the Legislature.
Job openings are posted on the state careers website:
If you have not held a permanent position in classified service prior to your exempt appointment there is no right of return.
Other options: check out It is a great starting point for those seeking employment in state government.
Enter your profile into the recruiting database.
Search for opportunities with state agencies (higher education does not use OLRS). Multiple states (along with cities, counties and the private sector) use this system powered by NEOGOV. You only have to build your profile once.
Apply for jobs.
Be sure to read posting thoroughly, many requirements state you must attach a resume and a letter of interest outlining how you meet the position specifics and references.

15. Washington Management Service Information
Exempt employees seeking new opportunities should consider applying for jobs in WMS.
offers flexibility in recruitment, screening, and hiring recruitment and hiring of WMS positions takes place at the agency level.
Each state agency has a recruitment and selection policy and/or procedure to best meet organizational needs.
Important to pursue opportunities directly with those agencies that have WMS positions.
Look for WMS positions in the online recruiting system and contact employers directly.

16. Where to start… Do your homework Make contacts
Research to find out which state agencies are a good match for your skills, knowledge, and career interests; check out agency websites.
Make contacts
Network with agencies for specific information on career opportunities and recruiting plans; pursue informational interviews
Contact agencies to find out more about the agency, job opportunities, and how you may better prepare for openings. Approach employers with the attitude that you are seeking career advice.

17. Careers.wa.gov……
The careers.wa.gov website offers a variety of information to assist you with your employment search.
Examples include job postings in the centralized recruiting system, links to state agency and higher education employment sites and online resume, networking and interviewing tips.

18. WA State Human Resources www.hr.wa.gov
Resources for employees during times of transition can be found on the former Department of Personnel website now renamed HR Washington State Human Resources at
This website continues to serve as a central source of HR information for WA State government. The name has been changed to reflect its role as the state’s HR website.
Click the link titled Layoff Info & Resources. You will find many resources available here to assist you.
Among them is the Exempt Employee Transition Resources checklist. It can be stressful during a job transition; this personal action checklist was developed as a guide to help employees in taking those important steps at various stages of their transition.
This checklist is unique in that it breaks down suggested actions into phases according to when:
1) an employee is notified about potential job loss – attend the Job Hunter Series Workshops at your local WorkSource Center; apply for jobs via careers.wa.gov.
2) when an employee is given official notice, but before they are separated – change your contact information ( address and phone numbers) to your personal contact numbers, rather than your work numbers.
3) After leaving state service – apply to continue your health benefits.

19. Department of Enterprise Services Resources and Services
General Inquiries
Layoff Information
Contact us or visit:
or toll free
8:00 to 5:00 - Monday through Friday
1500 Jefferson, Olympia; State Capitol – Exit 105 off I-5
Please note we are here to help, please check out our resources.
Our DES Service Center has information available for job seeker support including:
Staff available to answer questions regarding the process to get on the layoff lists or the General Government Transition Pool
Assistance with the online recruiting system and job search tips
Answers to general questions about state employment

20. Public Employee Benefits Board (PEBB)/Health Care Authority
PEBB Benefits
PEBB Continuation of Coverage Options
Accessing PEBB Benefits
What to Expect
Resources
When you are faced with transition from your current employer, what happens to your healthcare benefits?
This summary includes information about your options to continue your healthcare coverage after layoff or separation.

21. PEBB Benefits… PEBB Benefits When they will end if you take no action
Medical and Dental Insurance
The last day of the month in which employment ends
Basic Life Insurance
Supplemental Life Insurance
The earlier of (1) the last day of the month in which employment ends, or (2) the last day of the month in which the employee is eligible for the employer contribution or employee premiums were paid, whichever is later
Basic Long-Term Disability
The date employment ends
Optional Long-Term Disability
The last day of the month in which employment ends or the last day in which a required premium contribution was made
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) & Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP)
Participation ends the date employment ends
So, what happens to your employer-paid benefits?
Your medical, dental and basic life insurance will end the last day of the month in which you are in pay status for at least 8 hours.
Employer-paid basic long-term disability ends the date your employment ends.
Supplemental life insurance and optional long-term disability end based on the last premium contribution that was made through payroll deduction.
Participation in the Flexible Spending Account or FSA and Dependent Care Assistance Program or DCAP ends the date employment ends.
You may continue your auto/home insurance with Liberty Mutual and your long-term care coverage through John Hancock. You will need to contact them to make other payment arrangements.
*Auto/Home and Long-Term Care may continue as before. If using payroll deduction for Auto/Home, contact Liberty Mutual to make other payment arrangements.

22. Options to continue coverage
Options to continue most of your coverage are based on your individual situation:
Continued employment through reversion, reduction in hours, or agency transfer
Enroll as a dependent on a spouse or state-registered/qualified domestic partner’s account
Self-pay for your self and eligible dependents
Retiree coverage
There are several options for continuing most of your coverage. Your individual situation will determine which options are available to you.
The options include the possibility of continued employment; enrolling as a dependent on a spouse, state-registered or qualified domestic partner or parents PEBB account; self-pay for yourself and your eligible dependents, or enroll in retiree coverage.
Let’s take a look at each of these options.

23. Option: Continued Employment
Establishing eligibility…
You are eligible for the employer contribution with eight hours or more per month of pay status for up to 24 months
Examples include: Revert to another position; Have current position hours reduced; or Transfer to another agency
Must notify the employing agency of potential eligibility as a laid off employee (WAC )
After the 24th month, employee must re-establish eligibility under WAC
The first option is the possibility of continued employment.
If you have the opportunity to revert to a previous position, have your current positions hours reduced or transfer to another agency, even if the new position is not a benefits eligible position, you could maintain the employer contribution for benefits as long as you have at least eight hours of pay status each month.
Your benefits may continue for up to 24 months from your layoff effective date.
It is your responsibility to notify the agency that you are potentially eligible for the employer contribution for benefits under WAC
At the end of the 24 months you must reestablish eligibility for benefits if you have not already done so.

24. Option: Coverage as a dependent
Medical/dental coverage:
No later than 60 days after losing coverage your spouse, state- registered/qualified domestic partner, or parent must submit the required forms
When the agency receives the form affects when coverage begins: To avoid a break in coverage, the form must be submitted prior to the date your current employer coverage ends.
Life Insurance:
Employment ending – transfer life insurance to a spouse/state-registered domestic partner’s PEBB account within 31 days of losing coverage
Separation from employment – continue life insurance on a self-pay basis
The second option is to enroll in medical and dental as a dependent on your spouse, state-registered domestic partner or parent’s PEBB account.
Your spouse, domestic partner or parent must submit the required forms to their employer no later than 60 days from the date you lose your coverage.
You may also transfer your life insurance to a spouse or state-registered domestic partner’s PEBB account within 31 days of losing coverage or you may choose to continue your life insurance on a self-pay basis.

25. Option: Self-pay Layoff Employment Ending
Eligible for PEBB “Leave without Pay” coverage
Continue medical, dental, and/or life insurance coverage for up to 29 months
Employment Ending
Eligible for COBRA coverage
Continue medical and dental coverage for up to 18 months
The third option is to self-pay your healthcare coverage.
If you’re in layoff status you have the option to self pay your medical, dental, and life insurance for up to 29 months.
If your employment is ending you are eligible to continue your medical and dental coverage under COBRA for up to 18 months.

26. Option: Retiree coverage
Must be eligible to retire per your retirement plan
May use continuation of coverage to bridge to retirement
Continue medical and dental coverage
May have option to enroll in retiree life insurance
The fourth option is to continue your healthcare as a PEBB retiree.
In order to enroll in retiree coverage you must be eligible to retire under your retirement plan.
If you are not eligible because of the age requirement, you may use continuation of coverage to bridge to retirement.
Retiree coverage includes medical and dental coverage. You may also be eligible to enroll in retiree life insurance.

27. What to expect… A Continuation of Coverage Election Notice in the mail
Enroll in coverage no later
than 60 days from the
postmark date
May enroll eligible dependents
Self-pay rates apply
You will receive a Continuation of Coverage Election Notice in the mail that explains these options for continuing your coverage on a self-pay basis.
The notice does not include the retiree information but does direct you to resources if you are considering and are eligible for retiree coverage.
Your dependents currently enrolled on your account may also be enrolled in continuation of coverage.

28. Resources PEBB Program PEBB program customer service: 1-800-200-1004
PEBB website:
This summary video is a very brief overview of your options.
To learn more about the continuation of coverage options visit the PEBB website at or call the PEBB program at
Thank you for your time and attention. My colleagues and I wish you good health.

29. WorkSource
A joint venture of organizations dedicated to addressing Washington State’s employment and training needs
WorkSource provides all the information, technology and services businesses need to thrive and job seekers need to achieve successful careers
Partners include state, local government and local community based organizations that provide a wide range of employment and training-related services
There are over 35 WorkSource Centers at various locations across the state. To find an office nearest you, go to:
Worksource is a joint venture of organizations dedicated to addressing Washington State’s employment and training needs. We provide all the information, technology and services businesses need to thrive and job seekers need to achieve successful careers.
Our partners include state, local government and local community based organizations that provide a wide range of employment and training services. There are over 35 WorkSource offices throughout Washington. You can find your nearest WorkSource from our go2worksource.com website.

30. This is a snapshot of our website www.go2worksource.com.
There is employment and training information including many helpful links. The links include open job orders, government job openings, a place to post your resume, labor market information and many others.

31. Services for Job Seekers
Free use of computers, copiers, phones, faxes and other career resources
Internet access to post your resume and find jobs
Job referrals and job search assistance
Hiring events and career fairs
Workshops on resume writing, interviewing, and job search strategies
Information on the fastest growing jobs and wages
The services we provide at WorkSource include:
Free use of computers, copiers, phones, faxes and other career resources
Internet access to post your resume and find jobs
Job referrals and job search assistance
Hiring events and career fairs
Workshops on resume writing, interviewing, and job search strategies
Information on the fastest growing jobs and wages.

32. WorkSource Programs WorkSource has programs for:
Youth
Adults
Laid-off workers
Persons with disabilities
Veterans
Older Adults
Displaced Homemakers
For more information about programs visit and click on WorkSource Services
We have several programs at WorkSource, to assist:
Youth
Adults
Laid off workers
Persons with disabilities
Veterans
Older Adults
Displaced Homemakers
There is more information about all these programs on our go2worksource.com website.

33. Dislocated Worker Program
Our first priority is to help you find a job by:
Providing 1-on-1 career counseling
Teaching you effective job search strategies
Comparing your transferable skills to the needs of today’s job market
Referring you to job openings
Referring you to workshops and other skill-building classes
If you are interested in learning more about training to a new career field: attend a Dislocated Worker Orientation or contact your local WorkSource about speaking with a Workforce Investment Act (WIA) counselor.
Our first priority is to help you find a job. We do this by:
Providing 1 on 1 career counseling
Teaching you effective job search strategies
Comparing your transferrable skills to the needs of today’s job market
Referring you to job openings
Referring you to workshops and other skill building classes

34. Financial Aid Resources
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Other financial aid resources are often available
Websites you will want to visit to help with your financial plan include:

35. Unemployment Insurance
What is Unemployment Insurance?
How do I apply?
What if I move to another state?
How long can I get benefits?
How does severance pay affect my benefits?
Are unemployment benefits taxable?
What are my responsibilities while claiming benefits?
Can I go to school?
How much will I get?
How do I claim weekly benefits?
When will I get my first payment?
Are extensions available?
How does a pension affect my benefits?
What if I am denied benefits?
Do I have to accept bump options?
Where can I get more information?

36. What is Unemployment Insurance?
Unemployment is 100% funded by employers and designed to help workers unemployed through no fault of their own.
How much will I get?
Benefits are based on earnings in an unemployment “base year”.
Weekly benefit amount - average of two high quarter earnings.
The maximum and minimum weekly benefit amount is set in June for new claims filed beginning Sunday of the first full week of July.
What is unemployment insurance - Unemployment insurance is designed to assist workers unemployed through no fault of their own. It is 100% funded by employers through payroll taxes – nothing comes out of the worker’s paycheck.
If you quit or are discharged prior to being laid off, it may jeopardize your unemployment benefits.
How much will I get? Your earnings during a “base year” determine your weekly benefit amount and the maximum benefits payable on your claim.
Your base year is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters when you file your claim.
You must have 680 hours of work during your base year to be eligible for benefits.
If you do not have enough hours in the regular base year period, an “alternate base year” period of the last four completed quarters can be considered.

37. How do I apply for benefits?
Online at
24 hours a day/7 days a week
Unemployment Claims Center
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday – Friday
How do I claim weekly benefits?
You may apply for benefits by:
Calling the unemployment claims center at Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except for state holidays
Going online at 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Most claims can be filed online, be sure and follow all instructions. Your claim is effective the week you file your online application.
Filing your weekly certification - You will be provided an overview of the claims process when you file your application. We’ll instruct you how to select your Personal Identification Number.
You must set up a PIN to file your weekly claim by telephone at or on the Internet at
Online at
By telephone at
Choose the weekly claim option (#1)
Create a personal identification number
Your PIN is your electronic signature

38. Can I still file a claim if I move out of Washington State?
You can file your application before moving.
If your claim is based on only Washington wages, you will have a WA claim if you apply here and after you relocate.
If you relocate after you apply in WA you can change your address online at
You will be required to register for work with a state employment agency in the state that you relocate to.
When will I get my first payment?
Moving outside Washington State - Once you establish a Washington claim, you may continue to draw from that claim, even if you move to a different state.
You are required to register for work in the new state at the nearest employment office.
Check the government pages of your local telephone directory for the location of the nearest office.
If you move, you can change your address online at or by calling
When will I get my first check? To receive payment, you must file weekly claims.
When you file your weekly claim you will answer eligibility questions for the prior week.
You are not paid for the first eligible week of your claim. It is a “waiting week” but you must claim the week to have it count.
This means that you will be entering your third week of unemployment before you claim for a payable week.
You cannot claim a week until the week is over, which is after midnight Saturday of the week you are claiming.
We recommend you file your claim on Sunday, or Monday each week to ensure timely payment.
You have from Sunday until Friday at 5:00 pm to file your weekly claim for the week that ends on Saturday.
If you claim by telephone or on the Internet, you will usually receive your check within the same week.
Direct Deposit is available.
We can send your benefits directly to your bank or credit union account. It’s safe and convenient.
You can sign up when you apply for benefits online or sign up later through our secure website. To get more information about direct deposit go to and type “Direct Deposit” in the search field.
Generally two to three weeks from when you file your application.
Week for unemployment begins Sunday and ends Saturday midnight. You can’t claim a week until it’s over.
First eligible week is an unpaid “waiting week”.
Direct deposit

39. How long can I get my benefits?
Benefit Year
52 weeks from the week you file your application
It’s the only WA claim you can have for that year
Maximum regular benefits available in a “benefit year”
26 X the weekly benefit amount
Are extensions available?
Maybe - extensions are based on the statewide unemployment rate
Federal Extension
Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC)
ended 12/28/2013.
Federal/State extended benefits
Extended Benefits program ended 4/21/2012
How long can I get my benefits? Your claim is established for a 52 week “benefit year,” beginning the week you file your application.
However, there are only “up to” 26 weeks of benefits available during the 52 week claim.
You cannot file a new claim with Washington as the paying state until your Washington benefit year is over, even though you may have collected all of the benefits payable to you.
If you claim full benefits each week, the maximum length of time your benefits would last is up to 26 weeks.
Are extensions available? Federal and state extensions may be available in times of high unemployment. You may go to our website at for information regarding available extensions.

40. How does severance pay affect my benefits?
Severance pay is not deductible.
Vacation and sick leave – is not deductible if it is a cash-out.
How does a pension affect my benefits?
Retirement Pension
PERS – Employer contribution percentage is deductible from your unemployment benefit.
PERS 1 58%
PERS 2 60%
PERS %
Social Security is not deductible.
Severance pay is not deductible from your unemployment benefits. A cash-out of your vacation pay is also not deductible.
Pension - Payments under any employer-paid retirement pension will be deductible from UI benefits if the pension is based on your work for a base year employer and that employer contributed to or maintained the pension plan.
The amount deducted is based on the amount you receive and the percentage of the employer contribution.
Social Security payments are not deductible from UI Benefits.

41. Are Unemployment Insurance benefits taxable?
Yes
You can choose to have 10% of your UI payment withheld.
Sent immediately to the IRS – you can’t get it back.
If you are later denied a week in which the 10% was withheld, the amount sent to the IRS is included in any “overpayment” amount.
What if I am denied benefits?
Decisions are always in writing.
The right to appeal is included in the decision.
Hearings conducted by the independent state Office of Administrative
Hearings (OAH).
OAH can affirm, modify, or overturn our decision.
Are unemployment benefits taxable? Yes. Under federal income-tax laws, unemployment benefits are taxable.
When you apply for unemployment insurance, you may elect to have the Department withhold 10% from your check and sent directly to the Internal Revenue Service or you may elect to pay any taxes due when you file your income tax return.
Appeals - If you disagree with a written decision issued by us, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Office of Administrative Hearings, an independent state agency.
Your appeal may be filed by mail to the address on the decision or by fax to the number on the decision.

42. What are my responsibilities while claiming benefits?
Must be immediately available for and actively seeking suitable work.
Three job contacts
Three approved in-person job search activities at WorkSource
A combination of the above
Suitable work is generally work you’ve done recently.
Must be willing to accept prevailing wages, hours, and other working conditions.
Do I have to accept any bump option offered?
What are my responsibilities? To be eligible for benefits, you must be making a realistic work search and be willing to accept any suitable work.
Suitable work is generally full time employment in an occupation in line with your prior training, experience and education.
Work would not be considered suitable if the wages, hours or other working conditions are not as favorable as the average for your occupation in the local labor market.
Each week you file a weekly claim, you must be able, available and actively seeking work.
Bump options - A bump option generally results from a collective bargaining agreement providing more senior employees the opportunity to “bump” less senior employees during a layoff.
If your employer reports you refused a “bump” option, the department will determine if the refusal will be considered a voluntary quit from employment or a refusal of new work with the employer.
The department will investigate the circumstances and details of the bump option, taking into account work-related factors that may include, but are not limited to, changes in wages, hours, benefits, or distance to work.
Were you:
Unemployed through no fault of your own?
Could you have remained working?
If so, was the work suitable?
Wages, hours, conditions of work comparable?

43. Can I go to school and still get UI benefits?
Commissioner Approved Training (CAT)
Not required to look for work.
Includes self-employment assistance programs (SEAP).
Training Benefits (TB)
Additional unemployment benefits.
Must apply within applicable deadlines.
In most cases, 90 days/be enrolled within 120 days.
For TB dislocated workers, before end of benefit year.
Commissioner Approved Training - If you are attending or plan to attend full-time training, you may be eligible for Commissioner Approved Training (CAT). CAT is simply a waiver of the work search requirement — it does not provide additional benefits or pay any school-related expenses.
Training Benefits - If your training lasts longer than your regular benefits, you may also apply for Training Benefits.
You do not need to complete the CAT application if you are completing the Training Benefits application.
You must apply for Training Benefits within 90 days of being notified of the program and you must be enrolled in approved training within 120 days of being notified of the program.
Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) is another training program you may qualify for.
This unique program allows eligible laid-off workers to collect unemployment benefits while participating in approved self-employment training.
You can sign up for the program only if we determine you will likely use all of your unemployment benefits before finding a new job.
We will mail you a letter if you are potentially eligible to participate.

44. More information “How to” videos available online
See our website at for more unemployment information or to apply for benefits.
“How to” videos available online
Choose Forms & Publications at the bottom of the page. Topics include:
Applying for unemployment insurance
Submitting a weekly claim
How to complete your job search
Training Benefits program
Appealing a benefits decision
Additional information and “How to” videos are available online.
Simply access and at the bottom of the page choose “Forms & publications.” Choose “Unemployment-insurance benefits forms and publications.”
The videos provide basic UI benefit information in English, Spanish and open caption formats.
The following topics are available:
• Applying for unemployment benefits
• Submitting a weekly claim
• How to complete your job-search log
• Training benefits program
• Appealing a benefits decision

45. WA State Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Voluntary, no charge, confidential service to employees and family members
Assessment, problem-solving and referral service for personal and job concerns
Assistance in coping with transitions, challenges, problems and stress
EAP is an adjunctive service to assist you with all problems and concerns.

46. Change and Stress Change: Stress:
Situational: one event causing stress or distress
Cumulative: additional events impacting you
Traumatic: situation with magnified impact on you
Stress:
Eustress: everyday stress of life
Distress: feeling “all stressed out”
Change and Stress are normal and natural.
Your perception of challenge and opportunity or problem and dilemma is key to how you are affected by professional & personal life events.

47. Impact of distress Physical
increased heart rate, blood pressure & perspiration; headache & GI issues; illness & disease
Mental
impaired decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, focus, attention & memory
Emotional
uncertainty, fear, depression, anxiety; grief & sadness; hopeless & helpless; frustration, anger
Behavioral
isolation; temper tantrums; violence; misuse of food, medication, substances, computer, etc.
Workplace
performance or attendance issues & interpersonal conflicts
These are just a few examples.
How are you impacted?
This is the important question to answer.
Your job is to manage your stress levels in order to cope.

48. Resilience The ability to bounce back and move forward
Key attributes:
Positive
Focused
Flexible
Organized
Proactive
Most professionals agree that everyone is resilient to some degree. Getting this far in life proves this.
Your life experience and coping strategies are crucial to maintaining your mental health and controlling your behavior.

49. Stress Management The key to resilience
Develop an action plan:
consult with all available resources
use information to develop coping strategies
Practice pro-active self-care:
healthy diet & nutrition
exercise, movement, stretching & breathing
social support – family, friends, co-workers, church, professional organizations, support-groups, counselors, EAP, etal
Remember that you are a mere mortal human being.
Your use of this information & follow-through will depend on how well you take care of yourself.

50. WA State EAP Pro-Health and Pro-Performance
Contact “your” EAP for assistance in dealing with life’s twists and turns
Toll Free:
Olympia:
Online:
Seeking information, ideas and resources to develop coping strategies and a plan might help you succeed.
Give us a call. Thanks and best to you.

51. How Transitions Affect Your
Department of Retirement Systems
Career Transitions
How Transitions Affect Your
Retirement Accounts
When members of the various Washington State retirement systems leave employment, whether by choice or circumstance, questions often come up, such as:
Do I have access to any contributed funds? And
Are my contributions safe if I leave them in the system or program?
This presentation is designed to answer those very questions.

52. What happens to your retirement contributions if you leave employment?
What happens depends on you. Benefits are protected.
Can you retire? (vested and eligible) (Member Handbook)
DRS Publications
Defined Benefit (Guaranteed and Lifetime)
IRS Tax Code 401(a) and Survivorship options
Defined Benefit Calculation (Formula)
% x Service Credit Years(SCY) x Average Final Compensation(AFC)
Defined Benefit Estimator
What happens to retirement contributions depends largely on you and the actions you take, or don’t take, when you leave employment. Retirement benefits are protected by law, so basically it is only those things you do which could affect this benefit.
In order for a person to be entitled to a benefit they must first be vested. Vesting can take anywhere from five to ten years of service under your plan. Once vested the right to a benefit at the full retirement age for your plan is guaranteed. Eligibility, or more specifically the age at which you can retire, is determined by your plan. If you are unsure about vesting and eligibility please refer to the on-line Member Handbook for your retirement plan available from a link on the DRS Publications website. For some, this separation from service may mean retirement at a full or a reduced benefit amount.
Washington State retirement benefits are Defined Benefit plans which guarantee monthly and lifetime benefit payments to you. Defined Benefit plans also provide for lifetime survivor benefit payments.
Defined Benefit calculations are based on a formula that multiplies a designated percentage times your years of service under the plan (the Service Credit Years) times a period of highest earnings known as Average Final Compensation or AFC. Basically, a Defined Benefit rewards length of service because the longer you work and the more you are paid, the higher your benefit. Follow the link to estimate your Defined Benefit using the estimator on the DRS web site.

53. What if you leave work and don’t retire?
Plan 1 or Plan 2
Leave contributions & interest in Trust Fund – benefit guaranteed
Withdraw contributions & Interest from Trust Fund – benefit forfeited
Plan 3 Request for Payment of Defined Contribution Funds
Access to Defined Contribution account – four payment options
No effect on Unemployment Insurance payments
Defined Benefit guaranteed if vested
3% indexing if 20 Service Credit Years (SCY)
As mentioned in the beginning, the actions you take will likely affect future benefit entitlements. Remember, once you are vested the right to the Defined Benefit is guaranteed. Let’s examine some things you can do based on your plan.
If you are in either Plan 1 or Plan 2 for your retirement system, leaving your contributions and interest accrual in the plan continues to guarantee your right to the benefit when eligible. If you withdraw your contributions and interest you forfeit your right to any future benefit. You cannot withdraw employer contributions; and no one is required to withdraw money at separation.
If you are in Plan 3, you are in a Hybrid plan which is half Defined Benefit and half Defined Contribution. The Defined Benefit is only guaranteed once you are vested. Through Indexing, the Defined Benefit may be larger if you wait to age 65 to start it and you had 20 Service Credit Years when you left employment. The Defined Contribution portion of your Plan 3 is that half to which you contributed and made investment choices. You have access to those funds anytime you separate from employment. You have four payment options that are explained in the Plan 3 Request for Payment of Defined Contribution Funds publication found on the Plan 3 website. You can start or stop payments at anytime; you may avoid early withdrawal tax penalty if at least age 55, and any payment that you receive from your defined contribution account will not affect Unemployment Insurance payments.
If you have funds in the Washington State Deferred Compensation Program or DCP, you have access to those funds anytime you separate from employment. You have five payment options; you can start or stop payments at anytime; there are no early withdrawal tax penalties, and any payment that you receive from your DCP account will not affect Unemployment Insurance payments.
You are not required to begin withdrawing from your Plan 3 Defined Contribution or Deferred Compensation Program accounts until you reach age 70½.
State Deferred Compensation Program (DCP)
Access to DCP funds – five payment options
Continue to manage; no transaction fees
No effect on Unemployment Insurance payments

54. Beneficiary Designations and Conclusion
One Beneficiary Designations form for Retirement and DCP – be sure to keep it current.
Defined Benefits are guaranteed to all vested members.
If you leave employment withdrawal of retirement and/or DCP contributions is optional (no required withdrawals).
Retirement plan membership is required when returning to a DRS eligible position.
Stay informed by phone, internet, and sign up for updates
In conclusion, it is important to emphasize a few points:
First, there is one Beneficiary Designation form for your retirement contributions and any DCP deferrals. It is important for you keep the form up-to-date in the event you die and leave a balance in your account. This form is the only way you can specify the payment of those assets following your death.
Second, Defined Benefit payments are guaranteed to vested and eligible plan members unless the member does something to remove his or her entitlement.
Third, any person leaving employment, whether vested or not, is not required to withdraw any funds they contributed to their retirement plan or DCP.
Fourth, if you return to a DRS Covered Eligible position you will return to active retirement plan membership. If you separated as a PERS Plan 2 member and return to a PERS Eligible position, you come back as PERS Plan 2. If you return to a different retirement system eligible position, such as the Teachers’ Retirement System or TRS, you will then enter a different state retirement system.
And finally keep yourself informed about your retirement benefit and options.

55. Department of Retirement Systems Resources available – www.drs.wa.gov
You can call the Department of Retirement (DRS) for answers to questions or visit the DRS web site. The web site gives you access to everything you should know about these important employee benefits as well as access to your secure accounts through the window titled “Your Retirement Account.”

56. Thank you… Your feedback is important to us
Please complete the session evaluation form if attending a live session.