UPDATE: My payment just went through this morning! Looks like it was just a system delay after all. Thanks everyone for the reassurance and advice. I'm going to keep documenting all my job search activities carefully just in case I get selected for one of those random reviews mentioned above.

Congrats on getting it resolved! This is exactly why I try not to panic too early when payments get delayed. The ESD system has its quirks but usually works itself out within a few days. For anyone else reading this thread who might be in a similar situation - patience is key, but definitely keep those job search records organized like you mentioned. I use a simple spreadsheet with dates, company names, job titles, and application methods. Takes 2 minutes to update after each application but could save weeks of headaches if you ever get audited.

welcome to the club of multiple unemployment claims. unfortunately its becoming more common these days with all the layoffs happening

I've been through this exact situation multiple times and can confirm what others have said - there's absolutely no limit on how many times you can file for unemployment in Washington. I've filed 6 claims over the past 4 years due to contract work and seasonal layoffs in my field. Each time, as long as I met the wage requirements and had qualifying separation reasons, the claims were processed normally. The key things to remember: file as soon as you become unemployed, be completely honest about your work history and separation reason, and keep all your documentation handy. Washington ESD sees repeat filers all the time - it's not unusual at all in today's job market.

One other thing to try while you're waiting to get through on the phone - check if there's a WorkSource office near you. Sometimes they can help troubleshoot basic ESD issues or at least give you information about what might be causing the delay. They won't be able to fix complex issues, but they might be able to see notes on your account that aren't visible to you.

UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at ESD this morning! Turns out there was an issue with my identity verification that needed to be resolved. They never notified me about it! The agent was able to clear it up right on the call, and she said my payments should start processing within 3-5 business days. What a relief! For anyone else stuck in pending status - keep trying to reach them. There's almost always something specific holding up your claim that can only be resolved by talking to a rep.

Just wanted to add - make sure you're ready to start filing weekly claims as soon as you're approved. The weekly claim system opens Sunday morning and you need to file by the deadline each week to maintain your benefits.

I'm in a similar situation - filed my claim 8 days ago and still showing pending status. Reading through all these responses is really helpful! It sounds like 2-3 weeks is pretty normal, which gives me some peace of mind. I was starting to worry that something was wrong with my application. The advice about keeping detailed job search records even before approval is smart - I'll start doing that today. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and timelines!

my cousin works at esd and says they're doing a new thing where they start everyone at 13 weeks and then add more later if you keep doing your weekly claims without any issues. might be that

UPDATE: Finally got through to ESD today! The agent confirmed it was because of my work in Oregon. She's processing a combined wage claim that will include both states, and said my benefit duration should increase to the full 26 weeks once that's complete. She said it typically takes 2-3 weeks for the interstate verification. Thanks everyone for your help!