Can you collect back unemployment benefits in Washington - missed filing window?

Unfortunately, Washington ESD has pretty strict rules about backdating claims. You can only backdate up to one week from when you file, and that's only in very specific circumstances. The general rule is that benefits start from the week you actually submit your application, not from when you became unemployed.

Wait, there might be some hope here. I had a similar situation last year and was able to get some backdating approved. You need to call Washington ESD and explain your circumstances. They have something called 'good cause' exceptions for delayed filing. It's not easy but it's worth trying.

Good luck getting through to Washington ESD on the phone though. I've been trying for weeks to resolve my own claim issues and can barely get connected. The wait times are insane and half the time they just hang up on you when the call volume is too high. You might want to check out claimyr.com - they have this service that helps you actually get through to ESD agents. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

You really should have filed immediately when you became unemployed. The whole point of the unemployment system is that you file right away when you lose your job. Waiting months and then expecting to collect back benefits doesn't make sense.

Check the specific good cause criteria on the Washington ESD website. They list things like: inability to file due to circumstances beyond your control, incorrect information from ESD staff, natural disasters, serious illness or injury, etc. You'll need documentation for whatever reason you provide.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I work in HR and deal with unemployment claims all the time. Washington ESD is extremely strict about backdating. Unless you have a really compelling documented reason, they almost never approve it. You might be better off just filing now and focusing on your current situation.

same thing happened to my brother last year - he waited like 2 months to file thinking he'd get a job quick. ESD basically told him tough luck, no backdating without good cause. he was pretty bitter about it

One important thing to note - even if you can't get backdating for your unemployment benefits, you should still file immediately. Every week you delay is another week of benefits you're losing going forward. The process takes time to get approved anyway, so don't wait any longer.

The backdating rules are in WAC 192-110-0010 if you want to read the specific regulations. It's pretty technical but it outlines exactly what qualifies as good cause and what documentation is required. Might help you build a stronger case if you decide to pursue it.

I successfully got backdating approved about 18 months ago, but I had very specific circumstances. I was caring for a family member with COVID and had documentation from doctors and the hospital. The key was having official records that proved I literally could not file during that period.

Just want to echo what others said about using Claimyr to get through to ESD. I was skeptical at first but it really works. Instead of spending hours redialing busy signals, they do all the calling for you and patch you through when they reach an agent. Super useful for situations like this where you need to speak with someone about complex issues like backdating.

Don't forget that even if you can't get backdating, you might be eligible for other assistance programs during the time you were unemployed. Food assistance, housing help, utility assistance, etc. It won't make up for lost unemployment benefits but every bit helps.

Here's what I would do in your situation: 1) File your unemployment claim immediately online 2) Gather any documentation you might have for good cause (medical records, family emergency docs, etc.) 3) Call ESD to request backdating and submit your documentation 4) If denied, consider appealing if your case is strong. Don't give up without trying.

Be prepared for this to take time even if you have good cause. Washington ESD moves slowly on everything, and backdating requests get extra scrutiny. But definitely pursue it - the worst they can say is no, and you might get at least some of those benefits back.

One more thing to consider - when you do file your claim, make sure you're honest about when you became unemployed and when you're filing. Don't try to fudge the dates or anything like that. ESD will verify your employment history anyway, and being dishonest will just create more problems.

Update us on how it goes! I'm curious to hear if you're able to get any backdating approved. Good luck with everything, and remember to file that current claim today if you haven't already.

I went through something similar a few years back when I was laid off and waited about 6 weeks to file because I was also confident I'd land something quickly. Unfortunately, Washington ESD denied my backdating request because "thinking you'd find work soon" isn't considered good cause under their rules. However, I'd still encourage you to try - gather any documentation you might have (even if it seems minor) and definitely call them to explain your situation. The worst they can do is say no, but you might get lucky if you can frame it as circumstances beyond your control. And absolutely file your current claim TODAY - don't lose another week of potential benefits while you're dealing with the backdating request.