


Ask the community...
The good news is that since you were laid off and not fired for misconduct, you should have a straightforward approval process. Just make sure to apply soon and keep up with your weekly claims and job search.
One last tip - keep track of everything. Save copies of all your applications, correspondence with Washington ESD, and job search activities. You never know when you might need to reference something later.
For anyone dealing with employer contests or adjudication issues, I found that having all your documentation ready really helps. Pay stubs, termination letters, any written communication about your job loss - Washington ESD will want to see it all.
I'm still trying to get through to someone at Washington ESD to submit additional documentation. The phone system is impossible.
Try the Claimyr service - they can help you reach an actual agent instead of getting stuck in the phone maze.
Bottom line: your employer pays taxes into the unemployment system, Washington ESD pays your benefits from that fund, and your claim may affect your employer's future tax rates. But they're not writing you checks directly, and they can't prevent you from filing if you're eligible.
Thanks for posting this question! I'm starting a new job next week too and was wondering the exact same thing. This thread has been super helpful.
For anyone else reading this thread later - the key points are: 1) Stop filing weekly claims when you start full-time work, 2) Report work/wages on your final claim if applicable, 3) Keep your job search records, and 4) Monitor your account for a few weeks to catch any issues. That covers all the main bases.
Carmen Lopez
Just wanted to add - if you run into issues getting through to Washington ESD by phone, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier really does work. I was skeptical at first but it saved me hours of frustration when I needed to resolve an issue with my claim.
0 coins
AstroAdventurer
•I might have to try that. I've been trying to call about my adjudication for days with no luck.
0 coins
Carmen Lopez
•Definitely worth it when you actually need to talk to someone. The regular phone system is just overwhelmed most of the time.
0 coins
Andre Dupont
The most important thing is to file as soon as you're unemployed, even if you're not sure about all the details. You can always ask questions later but you can't backdate your claim very far if you wait too long to file.
0 coins
GalaxyGazer
•Got it. I'll file right away when the layoff happens. This thread has been incredibly helpful!
0 coins
Zoe Papanikolaou
•Agreed, don't wait. I made that mistake and lost out on a couple weeks of benefits because I thought I had more time.
0 coins