


Ask the community...
The biggest thing is just being thorough and honest. I know it's tempting to rush through it but taking your time on the initial application can save you weeks of headaches later.
I use Claimyr whenever I need to talk to Washington ESD about anything complicated. Way better than spending hours on hold or getting disconnected. Last time I used it was to get clarification on my remaining weeks and the agent walked me through exactly how they calculate it.
Pro tip: screenshot or write down your balance info when you find it online, because sometimes the website goes down or has issues and you'll want to have that info saved somewhere.
I've been on unemployment twice and both times it was fine. Just follow the rules and you'll be okay. The job search requirement isn't that hard to meet.
For anyone else reading this thread - FILE IMMEDIATELY after job loss. Even if you think you'll find work quickly, even if you have savings, even if you feel weird about it. You can always stop claiming benefits if you find work, but you can't go back and claim those lost weeks.
OP, curious how your application went? Did you run into any issues with the online system? I know some people have trouble with the SAW login process.
Haven't filed yet but planning to do it tonight after work. Hopefully the website cooperates! I'll update this thread once I get through the process.
If you do have trouble with the website or need to speak with someone, remember that Claimyr option I mentioned earlier. Sometimes the online system glitches and you need human help to sort things out.
Liam O'Donnell
Good luck with your claim! The process is basically the same for everyone once you get started. Just be patient with the adjudication if they need to verify anything.
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Zara Khan
•Thank you! I'm feeling much more confident about applying now.
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Carmen Flores
One last tip - when you're doing your job search activities, make sure to keep good records. Washington ESD might ask for your job search log during an audit, and you want to show you're actively looking for work within your authorized employment scope.
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Zara Khan
•Great advice! I'll make sure to document everything properly.
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Amara Nwosu
•The WorkSourceWA website is helpful for tracking job searches too. You can log your activities there.
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