Can I file unemployment online Washington ESD - need help with online application

Yes you can definitely file online! Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'Apply for Benefits' section. You'll need to create an account through SecureAccess Washington (SAW) first if you don't have one. The online system is actually faster than calling.

i filed online last month it was pretty easy once you get through the setup part. the hardest thing was remembering all my job dates from the past year lol

The online system works well but if you run into issues or need to talk to someone about your specific situation, you might have trouble getting through on the phone. Washington ESD phone lines are constantly busy. I spent weeks trying to reach them about an adjudication issue before I found Claimyr (claimyr.com). They helped me get through to an actual agent - there's even a demo video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

MAKE SURE you file as soon as possible! There's a one week waiting period but it starts from when you file, not when you lost your job. Don't wait around thinking about it.

The website can be glitchy sometimes. If you get error messages just try again later or use a different browser. Chrome usually works better than others for the ESD site.

One important thing - when you're filling out the application, be really careful about the reason you're unemployed. If you were laid off vs fired vs quit makes a big difference in whether you qualify. Make sure you select the right option.

Does anyone know if you can save your progress partway through the application? I'm worried about losing everything if something goes wrong.

After you file online, how long does it take to hear back about whether you're approved?

This whole system is so confusing! Why can't they just make it simple? I've been unemployed for 3 days and already stressed about money.

Make sure you keep track of all your job search activities from day one! Even though you have a waiting week, Washington ESD requires you to be actively looking for work and they can ask for proof.

Pro tip: if you're going to need to call Washington ESD for any reason after filing, don't waste time with their regular phone number. I tried for literally hours every day for two weeks. Finally used that Claimyr service someone mentioned and got through to an agent in like 10 minutes. Worth every penny.

Just wanted to add - if you worked in multiple states recently, make sure you're filing in the right state. Washington has reciprocal agreements with some states but not others.

don't forget to set up your direct deposit during the application process! getting a debit card in the mail takes longer and has fees

One more thing - after you file, you'll need to file weekly claims every Sunday to continue receiving benefits. Don't skip weeks even if you haven't heard about approval yet!

Has anyone had issues with the SecureAccess Washington login? I created an account months ago for something else but can't remember my password.

Quick question - if I was working part-time when I got laid off, can I still file for unemployment?

For anyone reading this later - the online system is definitely the way to go. I tried calling first and gave up after being on hold for 3 hours. Filed online in under an hour.

Just to circle back on the Claimyr thing since people were asking - I was skeptical at first too but it really does work. When my claim got stuck in adjudication, I couldn't get through to anyone at Washington ESD for weeks. Claimyr got me connected to an agent who cleared up the issue in one phone call. Sometimes you need to talk to a real person and this is the only reliable way I've found to make that happen.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm going to file online today. Feeling much more confident about the process now. Will definitely keep track of my job search activities and set up direct deposit. Hopefully everything goes smoothly!

This thread was super helpful! I'm in a similar situation and was dreading having to figure all this out. Nice to know the online system actually works well.