This whole thread has been super helpful! I'm about to file for unemployment for the first time and was really confused about how the payment system works. Now I know what to expect with the KeyBank card.

The KeyBank ReliaCard system is actually pretty solid overall. Just to add to what everyone else has shared - you can also set up text alerts for when payments are deposited, which is helpful for tracking your weekly benefits. Also, if you're planning to use the card long-term, consider setting up automatic bill pay through the ReliaCard website for recurring expenses like utilities or rent. It can help you budget better during unemployment. The card stays active even if you find work and stop receiving benefits, so you can keep using any remaining balance.

If anyone runs into issues reaching Washington ESD customer service, seriously check out that Claimyr service mentioned earlier. Game changer for actually talking to a human being when you need help.

Just went through this exact same process a few months ago! The key things you need are your Social Security number, driver's license, and detailed employment history for the last 18 months (company names, addresses, dates, wages). Don't stress too much - the online application walks you through everything step by step. Most importantly, apply TODAY - don't wait! Your benefit week starts from when you file, not when you were laid off, so every day you delay is money lost. The whole application takes about 45 minutes if you have your info ready. Good luck!

Update: I called ESD this morning at exactly 8:00am and miraculously got through after only a 45 minute wait! The agent confirmed they received my appeal decision and said my payment is being processed now. Should hit my account within 5-7 business days. Thanks everyone for your help and advice!

That's amazing news about your appeal reversal! I went through something similar with my former employer claiming job abandonment when I was actually terminated for "restructuring." Won my appeal in January and it took exactly 12 business days to see the money in my account. One thing I learned - make sure to screenshot your account showing the judge's decision and your eligibility status. I had a weird glitch where my account briefly showed "disqualified" again for like 2 days before the payment processed, and having those screenshots helped when I called ESD in a panic. Also, while you're waiting, double-check that your direct deposit info is current in eServices. A friend of mine had her payment delayed because her bank account info was outdated and the payment bounced back to ESD. Hope you see that money soon - $6,680 will definitely help with the landlord situation!

The bottom line is that temp workers pay into unemployment insurance just like everyone else, so you're entitled to benefits when you're out of work. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. File your claim, be honest about your situation, and follow the rules for maintaining benefits.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago when my temp assignment at a warehouse ended suddenly. Filed with Washington ESD and got approved within 2 weeks. The key thing I learned is to make sure you're actively looking for work - not just waiting for the temp agency to call. I registered with multiple agencies and applied to permanent jobs too, which helped me meet the job search requirements. Also keep all your paystubs from the temp work as proof of employment history. The whole process was actually pretty straightforward once I understood that temp workers have the same rights to unemployment benefits as regular employees.

Final thought - if anyone needs to actually speak with Washington ESD about their specific situation, seriously consider using Claimyr. I know I keep mentioning it but it's the only thing that worked for me when I needed real answers. Way better than the phone runaround.

I'm in a similar situation and just want to share what I learned from calling Washington ESD last week. If you haven't worked at all during your benefit year, you won't qualify for a new regular UI claim. However, they told me to check if I might be eligible for any federal extension programs that could still be available. Also, make sure you apply for other assistance programs like SNAP and housing help BEFORE your UI ends - don't wait until after. The application process can take weeks and you don't want a gap in support. Hang in there, this is such a stressful time but you're not alone in dealing with this.