Don't forget about the waiting week! Even after you apply and get approved, there's one week where you file a claim but don't get paid. It's just how the system works - kind of like a deductible.

Make sure all your employer information is accurate when you apply. I put down the wrong address for one of my previous employers and it delayed my whole claim while they tried to verify my wages.

hang in there it sucks but most claims do get approved eventually unless there's a real problem with eligibility

Good luck! Let us know when you hear back from Washington ESD. It's always good to hear success stories to give hope to others waiting.

Just want to add that if you do end up needing to contact Washington ESD with questions, I had success with that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Got through on my first try and the agent was really helpful explaining my options. Sometimes it's worth paying a little to avoid the phone tag nightmare.

Bottom line - you need to pick one path and stick with it until your situation changes. Trying to collect multiple benefits you're not entitled to will only create bigger problems down the road. Get proper advice for your specific situation before making any applications.

Just want to add that you should expect your first payment to be smaller than your full weekly benefit amount because they usually hold back some for taxes unless you opt out of withholding.

Bottom line - expect 2-4 weeks for your first payment if everything goes smoothly, but it could be longer if they need to investigate anything about your claim. Just keep filing weekly and be patient.

PSA: Make sure you have your routing and account numbers handy before starting any transfer process. Seems obvious but I got halfway through and realized I didn't know my routing number off the top of my head.

One more plug for getting through to ESD directly if you need to make account changes - Claimyr really is the way to go when the phone lines are jammed. Worth every penny to avoid the phone tree nightmare.