Complete guide on how to apply for unemployment benefits through Washington ESD

You should file as soon as possible after your last day of work. Don't wait because there's a waiting week anyway and you want to get the process started.

Yeah definitely don't wait. I made that mistake and it just delayed everything by a week for no reason.

Put down what you remember and explain in the comments section. Washington ESD can verify employment through their records and tax documents.

You can also check your old tax returns or pay stubs if you kept them. But don't stress too much about having every detail perfect.

I had the same problem! Spent hours trying to get through. Then someone told me about this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that helps you actually reach an Washington ESD agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Basically they handle the calling for you and connect you when an agent picks up. Worked great for me when I needed to resolve an issue with my claim.

That sounds too good to be true. How much does it cost?

It's definitely worth checking out the demo first. The main thing is it actually works - I was able to speak to someone at Washington ESD the same day instead of calling for weeks.

Yes, you need to be able and available for work and actively seeking employment. Keep a log of your job search activities because they can audit you at any time.

What counts as job search activities? Just applying for jobs or other things too?

Applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, working with WorkSource, updating your resume, interviewing. There are specific requirements so check the Washington ESD website for the full list.

I had that problem too. Try using a different browser or clearing your cache. The site seems to work better on Chrome than Internet Explorer.

Also try applying early in the morning or late at night when fewer people are on the system.

You should get your monetary determination within a week. If there are no issues with your claim, you can start filing weekly claims right away. First payment usually comes 1-2 weeks after that.

Mine took about 10 days total from application to first payment. But that was for a straightforward layoff situation.

What if you were fired? Does that make it take longer?

If you were fired for misconduct, your claim might go into adjudication which can take several weeks. If it was just poor performance or lack of work, should be fine.

Yes, you can file for partial unemployment benefits if your hours or wages were reduced. You'll need to report your part-time earnings when you file your weekly claims.

Do they reduce your benefits dollar for dollar based on what you earn?

No, there's a formula. You can earn up to a certain amount before it affects your benefits, then it's reduced gradually. Check the Washington ESD website for the exact calculation.

Independent contractors typically don't qualify for regular UI benefits since you don't pay into the system. You might need to look into other programs depending on your situation.

The pandemic programs for self-employed people ended a while ago. You'd need to check if there are any current programs available.

Social Security card or number, driver's license or state ID, employment history for past 18 months including employer names, addresses, phone numbers, dates of employment, and reason for leaving each job. Also have your bank account info ready if you want direct deposit.

Don't forget your alien registration number if you're not a U.S. citizen. And if you served in the military, have your DD-214 form ready.

If you're a union member, you might need to register with your union's hiring hall and accept suitable work offered through the union. It doesn't change your benefit amount though.

Good to know. I wasn't sure if being in a union made you ineligible or something.

You'll need to contact Washington ESD to correct it. This is another situation where something like Claimyr can be really helpful since getting through their phone lines is so difficult. Better to fix mistakes early before they cause problems with your claim.

What kind of mistake? Some things you can clarify when you file your weekly claims, but major errors need to be corrected ASAP.

I put down the wrong reason for separation from my last job. Said I was laid off but it was actually a reduction in force.

That's not a huge deal - both are qualifying separations. But still good to correct it for accuracy.

You need to file a weekly claim every week, usually on Sunday for the previous week. You'll answer questions about work search activities, any work you did, and any money you earned.

And you have to keep looking for work and be available to work every day. If you go on vacation or aren't available for any reason, you need to report that.

Regular unemployment benefits last up to 26 weeks in Washington. There can be extended benefits during high unemployment periods but that varies.

26 weeks goes by faster than you think. Really focus on your job search and don't just rely on the benefits.

It's all online now through the Washington ESD website. You don't need to go anywhere in person unless there's a specific issue with your claim that requires it.

Much easier than the old days when you had to go to the unemployment office every week.

She can get help at a WorkSource office or library. They have computers and staff who can help with the application process.

The application is pretty straightforward once you get started. Just take it one question at a time.

They do audits and can ask for proof of your job search activities at any time. If you can't prove you were looking for work, you might have to pay benefits back. Keep detailed records.

I got audited last year and had to send in all my job applications and interview records. They're definitely serious about it.

Better to be honest and follow the rules. Getting caught lying about job search can disqualify you permanently.

Glad it helped! The process seems overwhelming at first but once you get through the initial application, the weekly claims become routine.

Just make sure to file every week and keep looking for work. The benefits are there to help while you find your next job.

Yes, unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld when you set up your claim, or you'll owe them when you file your tax return.

I learned this the hard way. Definitely have them withhold taxes unless you're planning to set money aside yourself.

Agreed! Way better than trying to navigate the Washington ESD website alone.

And remember, if you do need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your specific situation, don't waste hours trying to get through on the phone. Services like Claimyr really do work for getting connected to an actual person who can help.