Update: I tried the Claimyr service and it actually worked! Got connected to a Washington ESD agent in about 30 minutes and got my weekly claim issue sorted out. Would definitely recommend if you're stuck like I was.

Just wanted to share another tip that worked for me - try calling around 4:30 PM on Fridays. I know it sounds random but I got through twice using this timing. I think a lot of people assume Friday afternoons are bad so there's actually less competition for the phone lines. Also, if you do get through to someone, be super polite and ask if there's a better time/number to call for future issues. Some agents will give you insider tips on when call volume is lighter. Hang in there everyone - the system is broken but don't give up!

Update us when you get your payment! I'm curious to see how long it takes. Good luck!

I went through a similar situation earlier this year - approved after about 5 weeks in adjudication. The payment showed up in my account exactly 3 business days later via direct deposit. The relief when that first deposit hits is incredible! Make sure to check your payment history on the ESD website too, as it will show when the payment was issued. From what I've seen, Washington ESD is pretty consistent with the 2-4 business day timeframe once you're approved. Hang in there, you're almost at the finish line!

If your benefit amount seems wrong, definitely appeal or contact Washington ESD to get it straightened out. I had a similar issue where they were using the wrong base year and it took a while to get corrected, but it was worth the effort.

Just wanted to add that you should also check if you qualify for any additional support programs while on unemployment. Washington has programs like Basic Food (SNAP), Apple Health (Medicaid), and utility assistance that can help stretch your unemployment benefits further. The income limits for these programs often account for unemployment benefits, so you might qualify even if you didn't before. It's worth applying since every bit helps when you're between jobs.

btw has anyone noticed how the ESD website is always "down for maintenance" right when you need to file your weekly claim on sunday night?? happened to me again last weekend smdh

I'm going through a similar situation right now - filed my appeal 3 weeks ago after being denied for "voluntary quit" when I was actually laid off due to budget cuts. The stress is unreal! One thing I learned from calling around is that you can request an expedited hearing if you can prove extreme financial hardship, but it's rarely granted. I tried but they said being behind on bills isn't enough - you basically need to be facing immediate eviction or utility shutoffs. Also, make sure when you do your weekly claims that you answer "YES" to the question about appealing a determination. I almost answered wrong the first week because I wasn't sure if my appeal was officially filed yet. The waiting is the worst part. I keep checking my eServices account obsessively hoping for a hearing date. Hang in there - from what I've read, if you have good documentation showing it was a layoff and not misconduct, you should win. The system sucks but don't give up!

One last tip - set up direct deposit for your benefits. Paper checks take forever and can get lost in the mail. Direct deposit is much more reliable.

I was in a similar situation last year - making about $52K and got around $630 per week in benefits. The Washington ESD calculation is pretty straightforward once you understand it. They look at your highest earning quarter from your base period and multiply by 3.85%, then divide by 13 weeks. With your $55K salary, you should qualify for a decent weekly amount. Just make sure to file as soon as possible since there's no benefit to waiting. The online application isn't too bad, and you can check the benefit calculator on their website to get a rough estimate before you apply. Good luck!