Can you file for unemployment a different way besides online? Washington ESD alternatives?

Thank you! Do you know what hours they're open? I tried calling a regular number earlier and couldn't get through.

The teleclaim line is 24/7 I think, but sometimes it gets busy. Try calling early morning or late evening for better luck.

Same here! The automated system kept hanging up on me when I tried to file my weekly claim.

That's actually a great idea! I didn't think about the library having assistance available.

Yeah my local branch has a whole section for job search help and benefit applications. They even have private computers for sensitive stuff like this.

Never heard of that before. Is it legit? I'm always suspicious of third-party services for government stuff.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked for me when I needed to check on my adjudication status. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

WorkSource can help you with job search requirements once you're approved, but I don't think they handle initial filings anymore. That all goes through Washington ESD directly.

Oh okay, thanks for clarifying. I was mixing up the different services.

Yeah that's what I'm worried about. How long do I have from my last day of work?

You should file as soon as possible after your last day. There's no specific deadline but benefits are only paid from the week you file, not retroactively.

Good point about fixing mistakes. I might try the library option first then fall back to phone if needed.

Do I need anything specific from my employer besides their contact info?

Just their business name, address, phone, and your dates of employment. Oh and reason for separation - layoff, quit, fired, etc.

I don't think Washington ESD does paper applications anymore. Everything moved online or phone-based a few years ago.

probably for the best tbh, mail would take forever and you'd miss deadlines

So I really do need to figure out the computer situation long-term then. Thanks for the heads up.

Good tip! I noticed the same thing - mid-morning and early afternoon seem less busy than first thing in the morning.

Will they give me a confirmation number over the phone too?

Yes, the automated system should give you one at the end, just like the website does.

Yeah, or see if a friend can help you through the process. Having someone who's done it before can save a lot of time.

That makes sense - the phone system probably has separate capacity from the website servers.

How does that work exactly? Do they call for you or something?

They help you get through the phone queue to reach an actual agent. Check out their demo video if you're curious about the details.

Awesome! Glad the phone option worked out for you. Remember to file your weekly claims on time once you get approved.

Great to hear! The library computer idea is still good to keep in mind for your weekly filings.

How will I know if there are any issues with my claim?

They'll send notifications to your SecureAccess Washington account, so you'll definitely need computer access to check on things.

Don't scare them! Most claims go through fine if you answer everything honestly.

Absolutely. It's one of those things Washington ESD doesn't publicize much but it's there when you need it.

Yeah I saw that mentioned in the phone prompts. Three job search activities per week, right?

That's right, and they have to be valid activities like applying for jobs, attending job fairs, or networking events. Keep good records!