Can you still file for unemployment with Washington ESD in 2025?

Thanks! Should I file online or is there another way to apply?

Online is definitely the easiest way. Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'Apply for Benefits' section. You'll need your Social Security number, employment history for the last 18 months, and bank account info if you want direct deposit.

3 weeks in adjudication sounds rough. Have you been able to get through to anyone at Washington ESD to check on the status?

That's the frustrating part - I've called dozens of times but can never get through. The phone lines are always busy and when I do get in the queue, I get disconnected after waiting for hours.

Interesting, I'll have to look into that. At this point I'm willing to try anything to get answers about my adjudication.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money since I'm unemployed.

I found it reasonable considering how much time it saved me. Way better than spending entire days trying to get through on my own.

What specific documents do I need? I have my termination letter and pay stubs.

You'll need employment history going back 18 months - employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation for each job. Also your bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit.

How does the weekly filing work? Is it complicated?

It's pretty straightforward once you get used to it. You log into your account every Sunday and answer questions about any work you did that week, money you earned, and whether you looked for work. Takes about 5 minutes.

Don't forget about the job search requirements! You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep records of them. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time.

I feel your frustration but thousands of people get their benefits processed without major issues. The problem cases get more attention but most claims go through fine.

Maybe you got lucky but I know plenty of people who've had similar problems. The system worked better before they changed everything around.

That's encouraging to hear! Did she have any issues with the online system?

No major issues, just had to be patient with the website loading sometimes. Make sure to save your progress frequently in case the system times out.

Really? I thought you had to wait until after your last day. That would have been helpful to know earlier.

You can file up to 7 days before your last day of work as long as you know the exact date. Just make sure to put the correct last day of work on your application.

That's normal for identity verification. They do it to prevent fraud. Better to have them ask for it upfront than have your claim delayed later.

True, just wish they were more upfront about what documents they might need so people can have everything ready.

So I'd get paid starting from my second week of unemployment?

Exactly. The first week serves as a waiting week, then you start receiving benefits for subsequent weeks as long as you file your weekly claims on time.

How did that callback service work? I'm curious because I've been trying to reach them about my overpayment notice.

You basically give them your info and they call Washington ESD for you, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Saved me hours of trying to get through myself.

This is a permanent layoff, not temporary, so I think regular unemployment is what I need.

Then regular UI is definitely the right choice. Just wanted to mention it since some people don't realize there are different types of claims.

This is why I tell everyone to use Claimyr when they need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD. I spent 2 months trying to get through on my own before someone told me about it.

I'll have to remember that for next time. Would have saved me a lot of frustration with my last claim.

Good tip about the browser choice. Are there specific times that work better for the initial application?

I've had good luck with mid-afternoon on weekdays. Early morning and late evening seem to have more technical issues.

I did get some vacation pay with my final check. Do I need to report that when I file?

Yes, definitely report it. The application will ask about any payments you received from your employer. Be accurate about the dates and amounts.

Is WorkSource registration required for everyone or just certain people?

It depends on your situation. Some people are required to register and participate in reemployment services. You'll get notified if it applies to you.