Do you get unemployment weekly from Washington ESD - confused about payment schedule

Yes, unemployment payments from Washington ESD are weekly, but there's usually a delay. You file your weekly claim each week, but the actual payment typically comes 1-2 business days after you file. So if you filed Sunday, you should see the deposit by Tuesday or Wednesday.

Washington ESD processes weekly claims on a rolling basis. You file every week (usually Sunday through Saturday deadline) and get paid for that week a few days later. The key is filing on time - if you miss a week you have to explain why or you might lose that week's benefits.

I had the same confusion when I started. Washington ESD does weekly payments but the timing threw me off at first. What helped me was using a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually get through to someone at Washington ESD who explained the whole process. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how to reach agents. Much easier than trying to call yourself.

UGH the Washington ESD system is so confusing!! I thought it was bi-weekly like my old job. Why can't they just make it simple? And why does it take so long to get the money? Some of us need that money right away!!

weekly for sure. just file every week and you'll get paid. dont overthink it

One thing to watch out for - if you have any work during the week, you need to report it on your weekly claim. Even if it's just a few hours. Washington ESD will reduce your benefits based on what you earned, but failing to report work can get you in trouble for overpayment.

The payment schedule is: File weekly claim → Washington ESD processes it → Payment issued 1-2 business days later → Money hits your account. If you have direct deposit set up, it's usually faster than waiting for a debit card or check.

I've been on unemployment for 3 months now and I still get confused sometimes. The weekly thing is consistent but there are weeks where it seems to take longer. Holidays especially mess things up.

The whole system is designed to make you jump through hoops. Weekly claims, job search requirements, waiting periods... it's like they don't want you to get the money you're entitled to.

just keep filing every week same time and you'll get into a rhythm. i do mine every sunday morning with coffee

If you ever run into issues with your weekly claims or payments, seriously consider using Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD. I spent weeks trying to call them myself about a payment issue and got nowhere. Claimyr got me connected in minutes and the agent fixed everything.

Important reminder: you must file your weekly claim even if you don't think you'll get paid that week (like if you worked too many hours). Skipping weeks can mess up your claim and you might lose benefits permanently.

My sister went through this last year and she said the key is just being consistent. File every week, same day if possible, and keep track of your job search activities. The payments become pretty predictable once you get used to the schedule.

Question about the job search thing - do I need to apply for jobs every single week? What if there aren't any good matches for my skills that week?

The weekly payment thing is actually better than other states I've heard about. Some places make you wait 2 weeks. At least with Washington ESD you get money flowing pretty quickly once you're approved.

Pro tip: if your payment is ever delayed or missing, don't wait around wondering. Contact Washington ESD right away. I waited 2 weeks thinking it would fix itself and it just made the problem worse.

One more thing to remember - the amount you get each week depends on your previous earnings. It's not the same for everyone. Some people get the maximum, others get less. But whatever your weekly benefit amount is, that's what you'll get each week (minus any deductions for work).

Just wanted to add that the weekly schedule also applies to when you can file. You can't file for next week until the current week is over. The system won't let you.

bottom line - weekly payments, file every week, money comes in a few days. dont make it more complicated than it is

Glad you got your questions answered! The Washington ESD system can definitely be confusing at first but once you get into the routine it becomes second nature. Just remember to keep good records of everything in case you need to reference it later.