I'm so sorry you're going through this - 6 weeks is absolutely unacceptable for a basic unemployment claim. From what I've seen in this thread and my own experience, Washington ESD's phone system is completely overwhelmed and broken. A few practical suggestions: 1) Document everything - keep a log of every call attempt with dates and times, 2) Try calling the employer services line instead of the claimant line - sometimes you can get transferred to someone who can help, 3) File a complaint with the Washington State Auditor's office about the delays, and 4) Based on the positive feedback here, the Claimyr service seems worth trying if you can afford it. Don't let them wear you down - you've earned these benefits and deserve to receive them in a reasonable timeframe. Keep us posted on what works!

I went through almost the exact same thing last year - filed in February and didn't see a penny until May. What finally worked for me was contacting my state representative's office. I was skeptical at first but their constituent services staff actually reached out to Washington ESD on my behalf and got my case escalated. Turns out my claim had been flagged for some minor discrepancy in my work history that could have been cleared up in 5 minutes if anyone had bothered to look at it. The rep's office got me a direct callback from an ESD supervisor within 3 days, and my benefits started flowing the following week with full back pay. It's worth a shot - your tax dollars pay their salaries, so don't feel bad about asking for help when the system is clearly failing you.

Identity verification holds are actually shown in your eServices account under

I'm in a similar situation - just reactivated my claim after being off unemployment for about a year and switched to a new bank account. My claim shows "paid" as of yesterday but nothing in my account yet. Reading through these responses is really helpful! I had no idea that first payments to new accounts might take an extra day for verification. Going to wait the full 3-4 business days before getting worried. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - this community is such a lifesaver when dealing with ESD!

you got this! the hardest part is just starting. once you get the hang of the weekly claims it becomes routine

Hey Mohammed! I went through this exact same process last year when I got laid off from my retail job. The stress is totally understandable, but you've got this! Here's what I wish I had known: First, go to esd.wa.gov and create your SecureAccess Washington account - you'll need your SSN, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months. The application takes about 45 minutes if you have everything ready. Most importantly, apply TODAY if possible because your benefit year starts when you file, not when you lost your job. There's a mandatory waiting week anyway, so don't delay. Keep detailed records of everything you submit and screenshot your confirmation page. You'll then need to file weekly claims every single week to actually get paid, even while your initial claim is processing. The job search requirements start right away - 3 activities per week and register with WorkSourceWA. I know it seems overwhelming but thousands of people do this successfully every week. Take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to come back here with questions!

Hope this helps OP! The Washington unemployment system has its quirks but once you understand the requirements it's manageable. Just stay on top of your weekly claims and job search activities and you should be fine.

Just to add one more important point - make sure you report ALL income when you file your weekly claims, even small amounts like odd jobs or freelance work. Washington ESD gets income data from multiple sources and if there's a mismatch it can trigger an overpayment situation. I've seen people get hit with huge bills because they forgot to report a few hundred dollars they earned. It's better to be completely transparent from the start. Also, if you're unsure about anything, document your questions and the answers you get from ESD representatives - having a paper trail can really help if there are disputes later.

I had almost this EXACT situation in January!!! Former employer wanted me back at WAY lower pay for "just a few weeks" which turned into them pressuring me to stay permanently at that lower rate. I refused and reported everything to ESD. They tried to challenge my unemployment but I won because I had documentation of the original terms they offered me. GET IT IN WRITING!!!

Just wanted to add my experience from a similar situation last fall. I was a project coordinator making $32/hr, got laid off, then my old company offered me data entry work at $15/hr "to help out during busy season." I was nervous about refusing but my case worker at WorkSource actually advised me to decline it since it was such a massive step down from my skill level and previous wage. The key thing that helped me was being able to show ESD that I was actively pursuing work at my appropriate level - I had applications out, interviews scheduled, etc. They want to see you're making genuine efforts to find suitable employment, not just coasting on benefits. Document your job search activities really well and you should be fine refusing this low offer. Also agree with everyone saying get it in writing! When I had to report my refusal, having the email with their exact offer details made the whole process much smoother.