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One thing I learned the hard way - if you've moved recently, bring both your old and new address information. They need to update everything in their system.
Summary for the OP: Essential documents are photo ID, Social Security card, termination/layoff paperwork (if available), recent pay stubs, and bank info for direct deposit. Everything else mentioned in this thread is situational. You'll be fine with just the basics.
And remember, if you need to follow up with Washington ESD after the appointment, Claimyr can help you get through their phone system quickly. Much less stressful than the regular phone maze.
The whole thing is a pain but it's worth it if you qualify. I got like $450 a week when I was unemployed last year, which was way better than nothing while I looked for a new job.
Thanks everyone for all the advice! I'm going to file my claim online today and start documenting everything like you suggested. Feeling a lot more confident about this now. I'll update if anything weird happens during the process.
This whole thread has been super helpful. One last question - if I refile and get denied for some reason, can I appeal like with a regular claim?
Update: Just submitted my refiled claim! Thanks everyone for the help. The process was way easier than I expected. Now I just have to wait for them to process it.
Amina Diallo
Actually, if you do need to call Washington ESD and can't get through, there's also Claimyr that basically gets you to the front of the phone queue. I used it when I had an overpayment issue that needed immediate attention. Much better than spending all day redialing.
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Carmen Vega
•I'm seeing Claimyr mentioned a few times now. Seems like a useful service if I get stuck.
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Oliver Schulz
•It really is. The phone system at Washington ESD is notoriously difficult to navigate, so having an alternative way to reach someone is invaluable.
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Natasha Orlova
Just wanted to add - don't be discouraged if the process seems overwhelming at first. Thousands of people successfully file for unemployment every week in Washington. Take it step by step and you'll get through it.
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Carmen Vega
•Thanks for the encouragement! I'm feeling much more confident about starting the application now.
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