Confused about how does the waiting week work for unemployment in Washington ESD

Ok good to know, I was planning to file it anyway but wasn't sure. So I file for week 1 but don't get paid, then week 2 I file and get paid for that week only?

Exactly right. The waiting week is basically unpaid but required for processing purposes.

Wait do you have to do job searches during the waiting week too? I thought that started after you got approved.

Yep, job search requirements start immediately. Three job contacts per week logged in WorkSourceWA.

Oh interesting, I hadn't heard of that. How much does it cost to use?

It's definitely worth it compared to wasting entire days trying to get through on your own. The connection success rate is way higher than calling direct.

I'm always skeptical of third-party services but honestly the Washington ESD phone system is so broken that I might try this too.

Oh that's a good distinction. My last day of work was Friday so my waiting week would be the following Sunday-Saturday period.

This is confusing me more lol. So if I got laid off mid-week, do I file for that partial week or wait until the next full week to start filing?

You can file for partial weeks too. Washington ESD calculates partial week benefits based on the days you were unemployed in that week.

I feel you on that frustration but there is actually a purpose to it. Helps prevent fraudulent claims and gives Washington ESD time to verify employment history.

Maybe but it still hits hardest when you can least afford it. Just another bureaucratic hurdle IMO.

Wait so if my claim is approved normally, I do get paid for the waiting week eventually?

No no, sorry for the confusion. You never get paid for the waiting week period. I meant you only get your regular weekly benefits if approved.

Actually I think there might be some situations where you can get the waiting week paid retroactively but it's pretty rare and specific circumstances.

Good point. The job search requirements are active as soon as you file, not when payments start.

Thanks for the reminder. I've been applying places but haven't been logging them properly in WorkSourceWA yet.

lol 'don't overthink it' is easier said than done when you're stressed about money and trying not to mess up your claim

fair point. i just mean the actual process is straightforward even if the explanation is confusing

How long ago was this? I'm wondering if their call volume has gotten better recently.

This was like 2 months ago and the hold times were still brutal. Probably even worse now with seasonal layoffs starting.

Good thinking, I'll make sure to save screenshots of everything. Better safe than sorry with this stuff.

Yes! Keep records of everything. The Washington ESD system isn't always reliable and you want documentation if issues come up.

Standby claims still have the waiting week requirement. The rules are basically the same as regular UI claims.

Thanks! I wasn't sure if standby had different rules since it's temporary.

Exactly this. Plan for the delay upfront rather than being surprised by it later.

Yeah I'm trying to stretch my savings to cover the extra time. Good advice to plan ahead for it.

It's sad that we have to pay extra just to get basic information about our own benefits, but you're right that sometimes it's the only way.

True, it shouldn't be necessary but the alternative was wasting days trying to get through on my own.

This is really helpful, thank you. Sounds like I'm on the right track then. Just need to be patient for that first payment.

Yep patience is key. The first payment always feels like it takes forever but once you're in the rhythm it's pretty straightforward.

Good point! All income reporting rules apply even during the waiting week.

I haven't worked any hours yet but I'll remember this if I pick up any side work while looking for full-time.