Bottom line - don't let being a student stop you from filing if you're eligible. Worst case scenario, they deny your claim and you're in the same position you are now. Best case, you get benefits to help with expenses while you look for new work.

Just want to add that timing matters too! File your claim as soon as possible after your layoff - benefits are retroactive to when you first became unemployed, not when you file. I made the mistake of waiting a few weeks when I was a student and lost out on those early weeks of benefits. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving payments while you search for your next job. Also, keep all your documentation from your employer about the layoff - it helps speed up the process.

Just want to add that every situation is unique, so what worked for others might not be exactly the same for you. But at least now you have a good foundation of knowledge to work with when you talk to Washington ESD.

I'm a new parent myself and went through a similar situation recently. One thing I learned that might help is to check if your employer offers any kind of severance package or extended health benefits that could bridge the gap between your layoff and when you're ready to return to work. Also, Washington state has some great resources for new parents - there are WIC programs, childcare assistance, and other support services that might be helpful during this transition period. The timing is really tricky with pregnancy and layoffs, but you have more options than you might think. Don't hesitate to reach out to local family resource centers too - they often have navigators who can help you understand all the different programs available.

Update: Just wanted to thank everyone for the suggestions. I ended up using Claimyr and got through to Washington ESD this afternoon. Turns out I needed to submit additional documentation for my work separation. Finally have a clear path forward!

I'm in a similar situation - been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks about my adjudication case. Based on all the advice here, I think I'm going to try that Claimyr service since the traditional calling method clearly isn't working for most people. It's frustrating that we have to pay a third-party service to access a government agency that's supposed to serve us, but if it actually works and gets me connected to someone who can explain what's holding up my claim, it might be worth it. Has anyone who used Claimyr had any issues with the service or felt like it wasn't worth the cost?

Update: I managed to scrape together enough for the temporary permit ($8.25 was easier than finding the full registration amount). Got it this morning and it's good for 60 days. Hopefully by then, ESD will have figured out my claim! I'm going to try both contacting my representative AND that Claimyr service to see if either helps break through the ESD wall of silence. I'll let you all know if anything works. Thanks everyone for the advice - it really helped calm me down knowing I'm not alone in this nightmare.

Great update! So glad you got the temporary permit sorted out. The 60-day window should definitely give you enough time to get your claim resolved. I'd also suggest keeping a record of all your attempts to contact ESD - dates, times, call reference numbers if they give you any. If you do end up speaking with your representative's office, having that documentation shows you've been making good faith efforts to resolve this on your own. And honestly, the fact that you're handling job interviews while dealing with all this ESD chaos shows real resilience. Hang in there - once that claim processes and you get those back payments, you'll be able to catch up on everything. The system is definitely broken right now, but you're doing everything right to work through it.

Filing today after reading all this advice. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences - makes the whole process feel less overwhelming.

I just went through this process last month after getting laid off from my construction job. Filed my claim on the Tuesday after my last day of work and had zero issues. The online application took about 20 minutes once I had all my info ready. My advice is don't overthink it - just file as soon as you can and make sure you have your employment history for the past 18 months handy. The waiting week goes by fast and then you'll start getting benefits if you keep up with your weekly claims. Also, set up direct deposit right away so you don't have to wait for checks in the mail.