Can you file for unemployment before your last day - Washington ESD timing questions

That makes sense. So file the Monday after my last day on Friday?

Exactly. File on Monday or over the weekend. Just make sure you're actually unemployed when you submit the application.

Oh no, that sounds like a nightmare. How long did the adjudication take?

Almost 6 weeks. I couldn't get through to anyone to explain what happened. Finally used this service called Claimyr that helped me get connected to a real person at Washington ESD to straighten it out.

Never heard of Claimyr. Is that legit?

Yeah, it's at claimyr.com. They basically help you get through to Washington ESD agents when the phone lines are jammed. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

What if your last day is on a Friday? Do you have to wait until Monday to file?

You can file on Saturday or Sunday online. The Washington ESD website is available 24/7 for initial claims.

HR departments often give incorrect unemployment advice. They're not Washington ESD experts. Follow the official guidelines.

Good point. I'll wait until after my last day to be safe.

That's encouraging. Did you file online or by phone?

Online. Much easier than trying to call. The website walks you through everything step by step.

The rules are actually pretty clear if you read them. You just have to be unemployed to file for unemployment.

Clear to WHO? I've been trying to figure this out for days and getting different answers everywhere!

Yeah, I think I was making it more complicated than it needs to be.

This happened to my cousin. She filed on a Thursday and her last day was Friday. Took forever to get sorted out.

Exactly. The system is designed to catch these timing issues automatically.

How long did it take to get your first payment?

About 2 weeks. Had to do the waiting week and then got paid the following week.

Yeah I'm getting 2 weeks severance. Does that change anything?

You'll need to report the severance when you file. It might delay when your benefits start but you should still file right after your last day.

Severance is reported as income for the weeks it covers. Your benefits will start after the severance period ends.

Yes, you still wait until after your last day regardless of what day of the week it falls on.

How much does that cost? I'm already going to be tight on money.

It was worth it to get my claim unstuck. Way better than sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

Same here. Glad I asked before making a mistake.

Good tip. I'll gather all that info this week while I'm still employed.

Smart. Also get your employer's contact info and your supervisor's name if you don't already have it.

Definitely. I'll file on Saturday after my Friday last day.

That's cutting it close. Safer to wait until the next day to avoid any potential issues.

Thanks! I feel much better about the timing now.

Will do! I'll try to remember to post an update after I file.

This should be pinned at the top. So many people make this mistake.

Agreed. Wish I had seen this info earlier but glad I asked before making the mistake.