Can't reach Washington Unemployment? Claimyr connects you to a live ESD agent in minutes.
Claimyr is a pay-as-you-go service. We do not charge a recurring subscription.
Using Claimyr will:
- Connect you to a human agent at the ESD
- Skip the long phone menu
- Call the correct department
- Redial until on hold
- Forward a call to your phone with reduced hold time
- Give you free callbacks if the ESD drops your call
If I could give 10 stars I would
If I could give 10 stars I would If I could give 10 stars I would Such an amazing service so needed during the times when EDD almost never picks up Claimyr gets me on the phone with EDD every time without fail faster. A much needed service without Claimyr I would have never received the payment I needed to support me during my postpartum recovery. Thank you so much Claimyr!
Really made a difference
Really made a difference, save me time and energy from going to a local office for making the call.
Worth not wasting your time calling for hours.
Was a bit nervous or untrusting at first, but my calls went thru. First time the wait was a bit long but their customer chat line on their page was helpful and put me at ease that I would receive my call. Today my call dropped because of EDD and Claimyr heard my concern on the same chat and another call was made within the hour.
An incredibly helpful service
An incredibly helpful service! Got me connected to a CA EDD agent without major hassle (outside of EDD's agents dropping calls – which Claimyr has free protection for). If you need to file a new claim and can't do it online, pay the $ to Claimyr to get the process started. Absolutely worth it!
Consistent,frustration free, quality Service.
Used this service a couple times now. Before I'd call 200 times in less than a weak frustrated as can be. But using claimyr with a couple hours of waiting i was on the line with an representative or on hold. Dropped a couple times but each reconnected not long after and was mission accomplished, thanks to Claimyr.
IT WORKS!! Not a scam!
I tried for weeks to get thru to EDD PFL program with no luck. I gave this a try thinking it may be a scam. OMG! It worked and They got thru within an hour and my claim is going to finally get paid!! I upgraded to the $60 call. Best $60 spent!
Ask the community...
- DO post questions about your issues.
- DO answer questions and support each other.
- DO post tips & tricks to help folks.
- DO NOT post call problems here - there is a support tab at the top for that :)
Join the conversation
Join the conversation
I just want to emphasize how important it is to be completely transparent with Washington ESD about your Social Security benefits from day one. I've seen too many people get into trouble thinking they could figure it out later or that "it's not that much money anyway." Even if you're only getting a small Social Security payment, you need to report it. The penalties for not reporting income can be severe - they can make you pay back all the unemployment benefits you received, plus interest and fees. It's just not worth the risk when being honest upfront is so much easier.
Absolutely this! I learned this lesson the hard way with a different state agency years ago. It's always better to over-report than under-report. Washington ESD would much rather you report something you weren't sure about than find out later you didn't report something you should have. The transparency approach saves so much stress and potential financial headaches down the road.
This is such crucial advice! I've been hesitant about filing for Social Security because I wasn't sure how it would complicate my unemployment claim, but you're absolutely right that transparency is key. Better to report everything upfront and let Washington ESD sort it out than risk having to pay back benefits later. The peace of mind alone is worth it. Thanks for sharing this perspective - it really helps put things in the right priority order.
I'm in a similar situation at 64 - got laid off from manufacturing after 20 years and trying to figure out the best approach. From what I've read here, it sounds like collecting both is definitely allowed in Washington, but I'm still nervous about making sure I do everything correctly. The reporting requirements seem straightforward enough, but I'm wondering if there are any other gotchas I should watch out for? Also, has anyone had experience with how this affects your job search strategy? I'm worried that potential employers might see me as less motivated if they know I'm collecting Social Security, even though I genuinely want to keep working for several more years.
@Ravi Kapoor I totally understand your concerns! As someone who s'been through this process, the main gotcha I d'watch out for is making sure you convert your monthly Social Security amount to weekly correctly using that 4.33 divisor mentioned earlier. Also, don t'forget that you still need to actively search for work and be available - some people think collecting Social Security changes that requirement but it doesn t.'As for employers, I wouldn t'worry too much about them knowing about your Social Security. Most employers understand that people need income while job searching, and your experience and work ethic will speak louder than what benefits you re'receiving. Focus on highlighting your 20 years of manufacturing experience - that s'valuable! Just be honest in interviews about wanting to continue working, which it sounds like you genuinely do.
@Ravi Kapoor I was in almost the exact same boat last year - 63, laid off from a job I d'held for decades, nervous about navigating both systems. The good news is that once you get into the routine of weekly reporting, it becomes pretty straightforward. One thing I d'add to what @Zara Mirza mentioned - keep detailed records of when you start receiving Social Security and exactly how much each payment is. I created a simple spreadsheet tracking both my unemployment and Social Security payments by week, which made it super easy to report accurately. Regarding job searching, I actually found that my age and experience were bigger factors in interviews than what benefits I was collecting. Many employers never even asked about it. Focus on demonstrating your value and willingness to contribute - your 20 years of manufacturing experience is gold in today s market'where companies are struggling to find skilled workers. You ve got'this!
Join the conversation
I'm in a similar situation at week 22 and have been researching this extensively. From what I've found, Washington's current unemployment rate is around 4.2%, which is well below the 6.5% threshold needed to trigger Extended Benefits. I called ESD last week (took forever to get through) and they confirmed no extension programs are currently active. However, they did mention that if you're enrolled in an approved training program through WorkSource, you might be eligible for Training Benefits which could extend your claim. It's worth looking into if you're willing to upskill or retrain. Also, make sure you're documenting everything for your job search - they've been doing more audits lately and you need solid proof of your weekly activities. Hang in there, the job market is brutal but people are finding work eventually.
@Sophia Rodriguez That s'super helpful info about the training benefits! I had no idea that was even an option. Do you happen to know if there s'a minimum duration for the training program to qualify? I m'curious whether shorter certification programs like (3-6 month bootcamps would) count or if they re'looking for longer programs. Also wondering about the application process - do you apply for the training benefits before starting the program or after you re'already enrolled? This could really be a lifeline if I can find something that aligns with my career pivot goals.
@Sophia Rodriguez This is really valuable information, thank you! I m'definitely going to look into the Training Benefits option - that could be exactly what I need to bridge the gap. Do you remember if they mentioned anything about the approval process for training programs? I m'wondering if I need to get pre-approval from ESD before enrolling or if certain programs are automatically qualified. Also, when you called ESD, did they give you any sense of whether they expect the unemployment situation to change anytime soon? I know they probably can t'predict the future, but I m'curious if there are any economic indicators they re'watching that might trigger Extended Benefits later this year. Thanks again for sharing what you learned!
I'm in week 21 and facing the same anxiety about what happens after 26 weeks. From everything I've read in this thread and my own research, it seems like Extended Benefits are really unlikely unless we see a major economic downturn. The 4.2% unemployment rate that Sophia mentioned is nowhere near the trigger levels. I've been trying to get through to ESD for weeks to get official confirmation about my options, but the wait times are ridiculous. Has anyone had success with that Claimyr service that's been mentioned a few times? I'm getting desperate enough to pay for help just to talk to an actual human at ESD. Also really interested in learning more about those Training Benefits - that might be my best shot at extending things if I can find a relevant program. This whole situation is so stressful when you're already dealing with job search rejection after rejection.
@Emma Wilson I totally understand your frustration with the wait times at ESD - it s'incredibly stressful when you re'already dealing with job search anxiety. I actually used Claimyr about a month ago when I was having issues with my claim, and it was honestly worth every penny. Got connected to an ESD agent in about 20 minutes instead of spending hours on hold. The agent was able to look at my specific situation and give me clear answers about what options were available. Regarding Training Benefits, from what I learned, you typically need to get pre-approval from your WorkSource office before enrolling in a program. They evaluate whether the training will lead to employment in a high-demand field. It might be worth scheduling an appointment with WorkSource even while you re'still job searching - they can help you explore both immediate job opportunities and potential training options as a backup plan. Hang in there, I know it s'overwhelming but having multiple strategies helps with the stress.
@Emma Wilson I feel your stress completely - I m'in week 19 and have been losing sleep over this exact issue. I actually just used Claimyr yesterday after reading about it in this thread, and @Leslie Parker is right - it was totally worth it. Got through to an ESD agent in under 30 minutes and finally got clear answers about my situation. The agent confirmed that no Extended Benefits are currently available and explained the Training Benefits program in detail. Apparently you do need WorkSource pre-approval, but there are quite a few approved programs including some tech certifications and digital marketing bootcamps. The key is that the training has to be for a high-demand occupation "in Washington." I m scheduling'an appointment with my local WorkSource office next week to explore options. Even if I find a job before week 26, it s good'to have a backup plan. The peace of mind from actually talking to someone who could look at my account was huge. Hang in there - at least we know we re not'alone in this!
Join the conversation
I've been collecting unemployment for about 6 months and went through an audit earlier this year. What helped me was keeping a simple Excel spreadsheet with columns for date, company name, position, how I applied, and any confirmation numbers or emails I received. When they audited me, I was able to provide everything they needed within a few days. The audit letter was pretty straightforward - they just wanted verification for about 8 specific job searches from certain weeks. None of the employers were actually contacted in my case, they just reviewed my documentation. As long as you're genuinely applying to real jobs and can show proof, you should be fine. The job market is tough right now so don't feel bad about the lack of responses - that's unfortunately normal.
This is super reassuring! I've been keeping screenshots and confirmation emails but your Excel idea sounds much more organized. Quick question - when they audited you, how far back did they ask you to verify? Like were they looking at job searches from just the previous month or going back further? I want to make sure I'm keeping records long enough.
This is exactly the kind of detailed info I was looking for! Your Excel spreadsheet idea is brilliant - I've just been keeping everything in random folders and it's getting messy. Quick question about the audit timeline - did they ask for job searches from specific weeks they selected, or did you have any choice in which applications to submit as proof? I'm trying to figure out if I should be extra careful about documenting certain applications over others.
I've been on unemployment for about 4 months now and had similar worries about verification. From what I've learned talking to other people and reading online, Washington ESD does have the ability to contact employers but they're pretty overwhelmed with claims right now so it's not happening routinely. The most important thing is that you're genuinely applying to real jobs and keeping some kind of record. I started keeping a simple Google Doc with the date, company name, position title, and how I applied (Indeed, company website, etc.). Even if the employer doesn't remember your specific application when contacted, having your own documentation shows you made a good faith effort. The fact that you're applying to 60+ places over 3 months shows you're taking the job search seriously. Don't stress too much about the lack of responses - the job market is really tough right now and many people are experiencing the same thing.
This is really helpful advice! I've been doing something similar with a Google Doc but I like how you mention including the method of application - that seems like it could be important if they ever ask for details. The point about good faith effort is reassuring too. I've been worried that just because employers aren't responding doesn't mean I'm doing something wrong. It's good to hear from someone else who's experiencing the same thing with the tough job market. Do you think it matters if some of my applications are through recruiters or temp agencies, or should I focus more on direct applications to companies?
Join the conversation
This entire thread has been a goldmine of information! I'm actually a former ESD employee who worked in the Training Benefits department for 3 years, and I wanted to add a few insider tips that might help people navigate this process more successfully: 1. **Timing is crucial** - Apply at least 6 weeks before your regular UI ends if possible. The "5-7 week processing time" they quote is conservative, but delays happen during peak application periods (especially fall when schools start). 2. **The magic words** - When writing your justification letter, use phrases like "career transition," "skills gap," and "labor market competitiveness." These are buzzwords the reviewers look for. 3. **Follow up strategically** - Don't call every day, but do follow up every 2 weeks with a polite inquiry about your application status. Squeaky wheel gets the grease. 4. **Appeal process** - If you get denied, don't give up! About 30% of appealed TB denials get overturned if you provide additional documentation or clarification. The program really does work when you understand what they're looking for. It's not designed to fail you - it's designed to ensure training leads to actual employment. Best of luck to everyone applying!
Wow, this is incredibly valuable insight from someone who actually worked in the TB department! The "magic words" tip is especially helpful - I never would have thought to use specific terminology like "career transition" and "labor market competitiveness" in my justification letter. I'm currently preparing my application for a cybersecurity bootcamp and was struggling with how to word my need for the training. The appeal process information is also reassuring to know - 30% success rate on appeals gives me hope that even if I get initially denied, there's still a chance. Thank you so much for sharing your insider knowledge! This is exactly the kind of practical advice that can make the difference between approval and denial.
This thread has been absolutely invaluable! I'm currently in my second week of waiting for TB approval for a dental hygienist program, and reading everyone's experiences has really helped manage my anxiety about the process. I especially appreciate the insider tips from @Andre Rousseau - those "magic words" are gold! One thing I wanted to add for future applicants: make sure your training program's accreditation is clearly documented in your application. My program coordinator mentioned that ESD specifically looks for programs accredited by recognized bodies in your field. For healthcare programs like mine, they want to see accreditation from organizations like CODA (Commission on Dental Accreditation). Also, if anyone is applying for healthcare-related training, Washington state has been really prioritizing these programs lately due to worker shortages post-COVID. My WorkSource advisor said healthcare TB applications are getting expedited review. Fingers crossed this helps my timeline! Will update once I hear back from ESD.
That's a great point about accreditation documentation! I'm just starting to research TB for a welding certification program and hadn't thought about that aspect. Healthcare being expedited makes total sense given the shortages. For trades like welding, I wonder if they're doing similar prioritization since there's such high demand for skilled trades workers right now. @Andre Rousseau - do you know if certain industries get faster processing than others? Also @Fatima Al-Farsi, good luck with your dental hygienist program! That s'such a solid career choice with great job security.
Nia Harris
I've been working temp assignments in Washington for over two years and have filed unemployment claims between assignments several times. You're absolutely eligible - when a temp assignment ends, it's considered a separation from employment just like any other job ending. The most important thing is to file immediately, even if the agency says they "might" have something coming up. I made the mistake once of waiting because my coordinator said they'd probably have something "within a week or two" and ended up waiting almost a month while missing out on benefits I could have collected. File your claim online at esd.wa.gov this weekend and make sure you have your final paystub and any separation paperwork from the agency. Don't overthink it - temp work is inherently unstable and that's exactly why unemployment benefits exist. You paid into the system through your paychecks and you've earned the right to use it when assignments end.
0 coins
Tyrone Johnson
•This is exactly what I needed to hear! I've been second-guessing myself all week about whether I should file, but you're absolutely right - the "might have something" from agencies is usually just them being polite. I keep hearing the same advice from everyone about filing immediately, so I'm definitely going to do it this weekend. It's really helpful to know that other people have been in the exact same situation and it worked out fine. The temp industry really is unpredictable by design, so I shouldn't feel bad about using the safety net I've been paying into. Thanks for the encouragement!
0 coins
Lucas Turner
I've been in this exact situation before and everyone's advice here is spot on. One thing I'd add is to make sure you understand the difference between being "laid off" versus "quitting" when you fill out your application. Since your temp assignment ended and the agency doesn't have immediate work available, that's definitely a layoff situation - not a quit. This distinction is really important for your eligibility. Also, when they ask about your availability for work, make it clear that you're ready to accept suitable employment, including potential callbacks from the temp agency. The system is designed to help bridge these gaps between assignments, so don't hesitate to use it. File this weekend and you should be good to go!
0 coins