Can u file for unemployment online with Washington ESD?

Yes, you can absolutely file online! Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'File a Claim' section. You'll need to create an account through SecureAccess Washington (SAW) if you don't already have one. The online system is actually much faster than trying to call or go in person.

The online filing is pretty straightforward but make sure you have all your employment info ready. Washington ESD will ask for details about your last employer and why you separated from the job. Since you said you lost your job, that should be fine as long as it wasn't for misconduct.

I filed online last month and it was super easy. Just be prepared that it might take a few days to process. Also, once you file, you'll need to file weekly claims to keep getting benefits. Don't forget about the job search requirements either - you'll need to look for work and keep track of it.

Just a heads up - if you have any issues with the online system or need to talk to someone at Washington ESD, their phone lines are absolutely terrible. I spent hours trying to get through when I had questions about my claim. Thankfully I found this service called Claimyr that actually got me connected to an agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

omg yes file online for sure!! i tried calling first and was on hold for literally 3 hours before getting disconnected. the website is so much better

One thing to keep in mind - after you file your initial claim online, it can take up to 2 weeks for your first payment if everything goes smoothly. Sometimes claims go into adjudication if there are questions about your separation or work history, which can delay things further.

THE WASHINGTON ESD WEBSITE IS TRASH!!! i've been trying to file for weeks and it keeps crashing or timing out. this is ridiculous when people need help

For what it's worth, I had a much better experience filing online than my friend who tried to do it over the phone. The website walks you through everything step by step and you can save your progress if you need to take a break to gather more information.

just make sure you file as soon as possible after losing your job. there's a waiting week in washington but the sooner you file the sooner that starts

Also worth mentioning - you'll need to register with WorkSourceWA as part of the job search requirements. They'll probably direct you to do this when you file your claim or during one of your weekly certifications.

I remember when I filed back in 2019 I had to mail in forms and wait forever. The online system is definitely the way to go now. Much faster and you get confirmation right away that your claim was submitted.

Quick question - what happens if you make a mistake on your online application? Can you go back and fix it or are you stuck?

does anyone know if you can file online on weekends or is it only during business hours?

Just want to add that you should print out or save confirmation pages when you file online. Keep records of everything in case there are issues later.

the online filing saved my life when i got laid off during covid. so much easier than trying to get through on the phone when everyone was filing at once

One last tip - make sure you're on the official Washington ESD website (esd.wa.gov). There are some scam sites that look official but aren't. Always verify you're on the right site before entering personal information.

honestly filing online was way less stressful than i thought it would be. the system asks clear questions and you just answer them. take your time and read everything carefully

Good luck with your claim! The online system really is the best option. Just remember to file your weekly claims on time once you get approved.

Final thought - if you run into any snags with your claim status or have questions that the online system can't answer, don't waste your time trying to call Washington ESD directly. I used Claimyr twice and both times got connected to helpful agents who resolved my issues quickly. Sometimes paying a small fee is worth avoiding the headache of their phone system.

update us on how the filing goes! always curious to hear how the process works for people