Bottom line - file with Washington ESD since you worked in Washington. Living location doesn't matter for which state's unemployment system you use.

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through this exact same situation last year! I lived in Bellingham but worked in Seattle, and I was equally confused about where to file. Like everyone else has confirmed, you definitely file with Washington ESD since that's where you earned your wages. The online application is pretty user-friendly once you get started. One tip - if you get stuck during the application process, don't refresh the page or you might lose your progress. Save frequently as you go through each section. Also, make sure you have your last day of work date handy - they'll ask for that early in the process. Good luck with your claim!

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.

Update us when you get it filed! Always good to hear success stories for people who are still figuring out the process.

Just wanted to add that I went through this exact same situation last year - lived in Bellingham but worked in Vancouver, WA. Filed with Washington ESD and it was totally straightforward. The system doesn't care about distance within the state, just that your wages were earned in Washington. One tip: make sure you have your Social Security card handy when you file online, they ask for it during the verification process. Don't let the fear of making a mistake stop you from filing - you can always correct information later if needed, but you can't get back the time you lose by waiting!

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!

Update us on how it goes! I'm sure others will have the same question in the future.

Congratulations on landing the new job! Based on what everyone's shared here, it sounds like you have a solid plan. Just to summarize the key points: file your final weekly claim, report your new employment on that claim, and then you're all set. Washington ESD will automatically close your claim after a few weeks of inactivity. Keep documentation of your last filing date and job start date just in case. The system is pretty straightforward once you know the right steps. Good luck with your new position!