Just remember that unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can have taxes withheld from your weekly payments or pay quarterly, but don't forget about it come tax time.

I went through this same process about 6 months ago when my company downsized. The online application at eservices.esd.wa.gov really is the best way to go - just make sure you have all your employment info handy before you start. One thing I wish someone had told me is to take screenshots of every page as you fill it out, because if the system glitches (which it does sometimes), you don't want to lose all your work and have to start over. Also, don't stress too much about getting every detail perfect - you can always provide additional information later if needed. The most important thing is just getting that initial claim filed as soon as possible. Good luck!

To summarize for you and anyone else who might be searching for this info in the future: 1. FMLA = Unpaid job protection (federal), no weekly claims needed 2. PFML = Paid Family & Medical Leave (WA state), apply once at paidleave.wa.gov or call 833-717-2273 3. UI = Regular unemployment (job loss), weekly claims at 800-318-6022 For your situation (surgery recovery), PFML is almost certainly what you need. The benefit can be up to 90% of your weekly wage depending on your income. Hope your recovery goes smoothly!

Just wanted to add that if you're worried about timing, you can actually apply for PFML up to 30 days before your leave starts OR up to 60 days after it begins. So even if you've already started your medical leave, you're not too late to apply! I made the mistake of waiting too long thinking I had missed the window, but the 60-day rule saved me. Also, make sure to keep all your medical documentation organized - you'll need it for the application and sometimes they ask for additional info later. The whole process was way less scary than I thought it would be once I actually started it.

One last tip - if you're having trouble remembering to file every Sunday, set up calendar reminders or phone alarms. Missing even one week can cause delays and headaches you don't need when you're already dealing with unemployment stress.

Just wanted to add - if you set up direct deposit, make sure your bank info is correct in your Washington ESD account before your first payment. I had a friend who had to wait an extra week because there was a typo in her account number. The weekly schedule is great once everything is set up properly, but small mistakes can cause delays you really don't want when you're counting on that money.

Has anyone had their benefit amount change after the initial determination? I'm worried mine might be wrong because my employer reported some weird wage information.

Don't forget that your unemployment benefits will eventually run out. In Washington you get up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits, though the exact number depends on your work history.

thats awesome! glad it worked out for you guys!!

Congratulations on getting through the verification process! This is such a helpful timeline for others going through the same thing. I'm dealing with this exact situation right now - my claim got flagged for identity verification about a week ago and I've been stressed about how long it might take. Seeing that it took exactly 9 business days and all your payments came through gives me hope. I've been following all the advice in this thread (keeping up with weekly claims, uploading clear documents) so hopefully I'll have similar results. Thanks for posting the update - it really helps to know there's light at the end of the tunnel!