Update: I called my bank this morning and they were actually super helpful! They moved my auto-drafts to Monday and waived the change fee since it's holiday-related. Also filed my claim right at midnight and got the confirmation email already. Thanks for all the advice everyone! Guess I'll find out Friday if the money shows up or not. Fingers crossed!

Just wanted to chime in as someone who's been on unemployment for almost a year now - the holiday payment delays are definitely real but not as bad as some people make them out to be. I keep a simple spreadsheet tracking my payment dates and here's what I've noticed: Thanksgiving week: Usually 1 day delay (Wednesday becomes Thursday, Thursday becomes Friday) Christmas/New Year: Can be 2-3 days depending on how the weekends fall Memorial Day, Labor Day, July 4th: Usually just 1 day The key is never cutting it close with bills during holiday weeks. I always assume worst case scenario and plan accordingly. Also pro tip - if you're really desperate, some credit unions will give you a small emergency loan against your expected unemployment deposit. Saved my butt last Christmas when ESD had a "system glitch" that delayed payments an extra 3 days. Hope everything works out for you! The stress is real but you'll get through it.

I'm really sorry this happened to you - getting laid off from a new job after just 3 weeks is such a gut punch, especially when you've already made financial commitments based on having that income. The good news is that everyone here is right about being able to reopen your existing claim since you're still within your benefit year. I went through something similar about 8 months ago when I got laid off from a marketing job after only 6 weeks due to budget cuts. A few things that helped me when I reopened my claim: 1. Make sure you have your exact start and end dates from the new job ready - ESD will ask for these specifically 2. If you received any severance or accrued vacation pay (even though you mentioned no severance), report it accurately as it can affect your benefits timing 3. Keep that email from your manager about the contract loss - it's perfect documentation for why the separation happened One thing I wish someone had told me: even though you can reopen online, if you run into any hiccups or your claim seems stuck, don't hesitate to call. Yes, the wait times are brutal, but sometimes a 5-minute conversation with an agent can resolve what might take weeks through the automated system. Also, start your job search activities right away if you haven't already. The 3 weekly job contacts requirement kicks in immediately when you reopen, and it's better to be ahead of the game. You've got this! This is just a temporary setback, and your experience will help you land something even better.

I'm so sorry this happened to you - getting laid off after only 3 weeks must feel devastating, especially when you'd finally gotten back on your feet and signed that lease. Everyone's advice about reopening your claim is solid. I just wanted to add something that helped me when I was in a similar situation: consider reaching out to your local WorkSource office as well. They often have emergency resources and can sometimes expedite certain processes or connect you with additional support services while you're waiting for benefits to restart. Also, since you mentioned being in tech support, this might actually be a good time to leverage that recent 3-week experience. Even though it was short, you can still list it on applications and explain the situation honestly - most employers understand that layoffs happen, especially at smaller companies. The fact that you were brought on initially shows your skills are in demand. Don't let this setback make you doubt yourself. You landed one job, which means you'll land another. And having that email documentation about the contract loss will definitely help if ESD has any questions about the separation. Hang in there - this community has your back!

What if I move to another state while receiving Washington unemployment benefits?

Based on what you've described, it sounds like you should definitely qualify for Washington ESD benefits! With 8 months at your retail job plus 6 months part-time before that, you likely have enough wages in your base period. Being laid off means it wasn't your fault, which is one of the key requirements. I'd recommend going ahead and filing your claim - the worst they can say is no, but it really sounds like you meet all the basic eligibility criteria. The online application will walk you through everything and calculate your base period wages automatically.

I went through this exact situation in 2025. If your benefits just exhausted last week, you need to call ESD immediately and explain the situation. According to WAC 192-270-050, you must submit your Training Benefits application before your benefits exhaust, but there is a provision for exceptions in certain circumstances. When you call, specifically ask if you qualify for a "good cause" exception for the late filing. Be prepared to explain why you weren't able to apply on time (like if the WorkSource counselor didn't inform you of the deadline). Also, make sure your training program is on the in-demand occupation list for your local workforce development area. Most IT certifications are, but it's worth confirming.

Just wanted to follow up - were you able to get through to ESD? What did they say about your situation?

Hope your family situation improves soon OP. The financial stress on top of medical/family issues is really tough to deal with.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information. It sounds like I really need to speak with Washington ESD directly about my specific situation rather than trying to figure it out on my own.