Can I apply for unemployment online with Washington ESD - confused about the process

Yes, you can definitely apply for unemployment online in Washington state. Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'Apply for Benefits' section. You'll need to create a SecureAccess Washington account if you don't already have one. The online application is actually pretty straightforward once you get started.

The online system works but it can be glitchy sometimes. I applied last month and had to restart the application twice because it timed out. Make sure you save your progress frequently if there's an option to do that.

If you run into problems with the online application or need to speak with someone at Washington ESD, I recently discovered claimyr.com which helped me get through to an actual agent without waiting on hold for hours. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me tons of time when I had questions about my claim status.

Just to clarify the process - you apply online through the Washington ESD website, then you'll get a determination letter in about 2-3 weeks. After that you start filing your weekly claims if you're approved. Don't wait to apply thinking you need to have everything perfect, just get the application in.

Make sure you apply as soon as possible because there's usually a waiting week before benefits start. I made the mistake of waiting a few extra days thinking I might find another job quickly.

The Washington ESD online system is SO much better than trying to call. I tried calling for three days straight and never got through. Online application took me maybe 30 minutes and I was done.

One thing to watch out for - make sure you answer all the questions accurately about why you lost your job. If there's any confusion they might put your claim into adjudication which can delay everything for weeks.

Has anyone had issues with the SecureAccess Washington login? I created an account but keep getting error messages when I try to log in.

Quick question - do you need to be a Washington state resident to apply online or can you apply if you worked in Washington but live in another state?

I applied online last year and it was pretty smooth. Just make sure you have a good internet connection because if it times out in the middle you might lose your progress.

The worst part about applying online is waiting for the determination letter. They say 2-3 weeks but mine took almost 4 weeks. Just be patient.

If you end up needing to contact Washington ESD for any reason after you apply, definitely check out that claimyr service I mentioned earlier. I used it again when I had questions about my weekly claim and it was so much easier than trying to get through on the phone myself.

Does anyone know if the online application saves automatically or do you have to manually save as you go?

Just wanted to add that you should apply even if you're not 100% sure you qualify. Let Washington ESD make that determination rather than assuming you don't qualify. I almost didn't apply because I thought I made too much money at my last job.

Make sure you keep track of your confirmation number after you submit the application. You'll need it if you have to call Washington ESD about anything.

The online application asks for a lot of details about your work history. Don't stress if you can't remember exact dates - just get as close as you can. They can verify the details later if needed.

I had to apply twice because I messed up some information the first time. The second application went through fine and they didn't seem to care about the duplicate. So don't panic if you make a mistake.

For anyone still worried about the phone option - seriously don't bother trying to call Washington ESD unless you absolutely have to. The online application is way more efficient and you don't have to deal with busy signals.

One last thing - after you apply online, you should get an email confirmation pretty quickly. If you don't see it within a few hours, check your spam folder before you panic and think the application didn't go through.