Can you file for unemployment online with Washington ESD?

Thanks! Do I need any specific documents ready before I start the application?

You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked.

How long did it take you to complete the application?

About 30-45 minutes if you have all your info organized beforehand.

I had similar problems but found a service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents by phone. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Interesting, I'll check that out. Sometimes talking to a real person is easier than fighting with websites.

What happens after you submit the online application? Do they contact you right away?

You'll get a confirmation number and they'll mail you information about your claim within a few days. If there are no issues, you could start receiving benefits in 2-3 weeks.

Good tip about saving progress! Did you have to start over completely when it crashed?

yeah had to start from scratch twice before i figured out to copy my answers somewhere else first

How long is 'reasonable'? I was laid off two weeks ago but just found out about filing online.

Two weeks is fine. Generally you want to file within the first few weeks of unemployment. Washington ESD will backdate your claim to when you actually became unemployed.

Agreed! Though sometimes I still prefer talking to someone when I have specific questions about my claim.

That's where Claimyr comes in handy - it helps you actually get through to Washington ESD phone agents without waiting on hold forever.

What kind of delays did that cause?

My claim went into adjudication and took an extra 3 weeks to resolve. Could have avoided that with more careful attention to detail.

Adjudication is the worst! Mine was stuck for a month over a simple clerical error.

Yes, you can file for partial benefits online through the same system. You'll just need to report your reduced hours and earnings when you file your weekly claims.

That's a relief! I wasn't sure if partial unemployment qualified.

How do the weekly claims work exactly?

Every week you log in and report whether you worked, looked for work, and if you were available for work. It takes just a few minutes each week.

For the initial application, you don't need to have completed job searches yet. That requirement starts after your claim is approved and you begin filing weekly claims.

Oh that makes sense! I was worried I needed to have already started looking before I could even file.

Good to know! I have pretty strict pop-up blockers so I'll adjust those settings.

Also make sure you're using a supported browser. I had issues with an older version of Safari.

Exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. It's been a lifesaver when I needed to actually reach a Washington ESD representative instead of waiting hours on hold.

How does that service work exactly?

They basically handle the waiting and calling for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Saves tons of time and frustration.

Good point! Are there fake unemployment sites out there?

Unfortunately yes, especially sites that claim to help you file for a fee. The official Washington ESD application is always free.

How long did it take from filing to getting your first payment?

About 3 weeks total, but that included a holiday weekend. Most people I know got their first payment within 2-3 weeks.

How often should you check your account?

I'd check at least every couple days, especially in the first few weeks after filing. Washington ESD will post updates and requests there.