Can I get unemployment if I was laid off from my job in Washington?

Thank you! Should I file online or is there a phone number I should call instead?

The online system at esd.wa.gov is usually faster and available 24/7. The phone lines can be really busy, especially on Mondays.

Do I need pay stubs or will they get that information directly from my employer?

They get wage info from employers directly, but having your pay stubs handy can help if there are any discrepancies or if you need to provide additional documentation.

How much does that service cost? I'm already worried about money.

It's worth it when you actually need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. Way better than spending hours trying to call yourself.

What do you mean by weekly claims? Is that different from the initial application?

Yes, after you file your initial claim you have to file a weekly claim every week to actually get paid. It asks about job search activities and any work you did that week.

Do online applications count as job search contacts?

Yes, online applications count. Just make sure you keep detailed records with company names, dates, and what type of contact you made.

I keep a spreadsheet with everything. Makes it so much easier when they ask for your job search log.

Adjudication usually happens when there's a question about your eligibility or separation from work. Did your employer contest your claim?

I don't think so? They never told me what the issue was. Just said it was under review.

So I won't get paid for the first week at all? That seems unfair.

Right, it's called a waiting week. It's just how the system works in Washington. But if you qualify, you'll get benefits starting from your second week of unemployment.

Is that something I do separately or is it part of the unemployment application?

It's separate but Washington ESD will tell you to do it. You can register at worksourcewa.com and it integrates with your unemployment claim.

Did you have to give them personal information to use the service?

Just basic info to set up the callback. Nothing sensitive. They just call you when an agent is available instead of you sitting on hold forever.

How do I know what my base period wages were? Do I need to calculate that myself?

Washington ESD will calculate it automatically when you file your claim. They have records from all your employers who paid into the unemployment system.

Did they contact your employer to verify your reason for separation?

yeah they send something to the employer asking about the separation. as long as your employer confirms it was a layoff you should be fine.

What kind of additional documentation might they ask for?

Could be anything from your final pay stub to a layoff notice from your employer. Just respond quickly if they ask for anything to avoid delays in your claim.

How long did it take you to get through when you called?

Forever! Like 2-3 hours of calling and getting busy signals. That's why services like Claimyr exist - they handle the calling nightmare for you.

Should I have taxes withheld or pay them later?

Depends on your situation, but having them withheld saves you from a big tax bill later. You can always change the election if your circumstances change.

That's good advice. I was thinking about waiting to see if I could find something quickly, but you're right that I can always stop if I find work.

Exactly. And if you do find work while collecting benefits, just make sure to report any wages on your weekly claims. Working part-time while on unemployment is allowed as long as you report it.