Can you apply for unemployment online through Washington ESD website?

Yes, you can definitely apply online! Go to secure.esd.wa.gov and create an account if you don't have one already. The whole process is done through their website now - no need to go anywhere in person. Make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready.

The online application is pretty straightforward but make sure you file within the first week after losing your job. I waited too long and it complicated things. Also be prepared - the website can be slow during peak times.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD by phone to ask questions during the application process, I recently discovered claimyr.com - it's a service that helps you get connected to ESD agents without waiting on hold forever. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Really saved me time when I had questions about my claim.

Make sure you understand the job search requirements before you start receiving benefits. Washington ESD requires you to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep detailed records. This trips up a lot of people.

ugh the washington esd website is so confusing. took me forever to figure out where to actually start the application. why cant they make it more obvious??

One thing to remember - after you submit your initial application online, you'll still need to file weekly claims every week to actually receive payments. The initial application just establishes your claim, but the weekly claims are what trigger the money.

Just a heads up - if you worked in multiple states recently, that can complicate your application. Washington ESD might need to coordinate with other states to determine your benefit amount.

The whole online system is a pain but at least you don't have to deal with their phone system unless something goes wrong. I've been trying to reach them for weeks about an adjudication issue with no luck.

Pro tip: take screenshots of every page when you submit your application online. I had a technical glitch once and having those screenshots helped prove I submitted everything correctly.

does anyone know if you can save your progress while filling out the application? its really long and i dont want to lose everything if i mess up

Make sure your bank account information is correct when you apply online. Direct deposit is the fastest way to get your benefits, but if you mess up the routing or account number it can delay everything significantly.

Remember that your weekly benefit amount is based on your highest earning quarter from the last 18 months. So if you had a really good quarter recently, that'll help your benefit amount. The online application will calculate this automatically based on wage records they have on file.

I applied online last month and it was pretty smooth. Just make sure you answer all the questions about why you lost your job honestly. If you were fired for misconduct or quit voluntarily, you might not qualify, but if you were laid off you should be fine.

Whatever you do, don't try to call Washington ESD while you're filling out the online application unless you absolutely have to. Their call volume is insane and you'll waste hours on hold. The online application has help text for most questions anyway.

Don't forget about the work search requirements I mentioned earlier. In Washington, you need to register with WorkSourceWA.com in addition to filing your unemployment claim. It's all connected but they're separate systems.

The online application asks for a lot of employer details going back 18 months. If you can't remember exact dates or addresses, do your best but don't stress too much. They can contact employers directly to verify information if needed.

One more thing - after you submit your online application, you should get a confirmation number. Write that down somewhere safe! You might need it if there are any issues with your claim later.

expect to wait a few weeks before you see your first payment even after applying online. there's usually an adjudication period where they verify everything with your employer. totally normal but frustrating when you need money now

To wrap this up - yes, you can absolutely apply online through Washington ESD's secure website. It's actually the preferred method now. Just make sure you have all your information ready, file as soon as possible after losing your job, and be prepared for the job search requirements that come with receiving benefits. Good luck!

And remember, if you do need to contact Washington ESD during the process and can't get through by phone, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier is still available at claimyr.com. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to clear things up, and they make that possible without the usual headaches.