Can I file for unemployment in person at Washington ESD office?

Unfortunately most Washington ESD offices don't do in-person claim filing anymore. Everything is pretty much online or phone based now.

You can file by phone if the website isn't working. The number is 800-318-6022 but good luck getting through - I tried for 3 days straight last month.

I had the same problem last year and found this service called Claimyr that actually got me through to a real person at Washington ESD. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much time and stress.

The Washington ESD website works better on certain browsers. Try using Chrome or Firefox instead of Safari or Edge. Also clear your cache and cookies first.

Some WorkSource offices might be able to help you access the online system but they won't file for you. They have computers you can use if yours is having problems.

whatever you do dont give up filing. you only have so many days after losing your job to file or you lose benefits

I filed mine at like 3am when the system was less busy. Took about 30 minutes total once I could actually get in.

The system is supposed to be down for maintenance on Sundays from 6pm to 6am so avoid those times too.

Make sure you have all your info ready before you start - social security card, ID, bank account info for direct deposit, and employment history for the last 18 months.

if nothing else works you could try that claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier. my brother used it last month when he couldnt get through and said it was pretty easy

Just keep trying the website. It took me like 6 attempts over 3 days but I finally got through. Don't give up!

One more tip - if you get halfway through and it crashes, sometimes your info is saved and you can pick up where you left off when you log back in.

Washington ESD really needs to fix their IT problems. This has been going on for years.

Try using a different device too. Sometimes it works better on mobile than desktop or vice versa.

Whatever you do make sure you file for the week you lost your job. You can backdate but its a pain and takes longer to process.

I used Claimyr too when I needed to talk to someone about my claim status. Way better than trying to call myself.

good luck! the whole process is frustrating but once you get through the initial filing its not too bad

Let us know how it goes! Hope you get through soon.

Remember once you file you'll need to do weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. Mark your calendar so you don't forget.

The weekly claims are way easier than the initial filing so don't worry about those too much.

hang in there, everyone goes through this same struggle with Washington ESD. youre not alone!