Does applying for Washington ESD unemployment hurt your credit score?

That's such a relief! I was really stressing about this. So there's no way it would show up on my credit report even if I receive benefits for several months?

Correct, unemployment benefits never appear on credit reports. The only thing that could potentially affect credit is if you had an overpayment that went to collections, but that's extremely rare and only happens if you ignore notices for a very long time.

This is good to know because I was worried about the same thing when I applied last year!

Yeah it's a common concern but totally unfounded. The unemployment system and credit reporting are completely separate systems.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash which is why I need unemployment in the first place.

It's worth it when you really need to reach someone. Way better than spending hours trying to call on your own and never getting through.

I used Claimyr too when my claim was stuck in adjudication. Saved me so much time and frustration trying to get answers.

That makes sense. I'm just worried about the gap between losing my job and when benefits would start. How long does it usually take?

Usually 2-3 weeks for the first payment if there are no issues with your claim. Make sure you file your weekly claims even while waiting for approval.

Haha that's funny but it makes sense. As long as you're paying your bills it doesn't matter where the money comes from.

exactly! the credit companies don't care about your income source, just that you're making payments

Thank you for the professional perspective! That really puts my mind at ease.

What about when applying for loans or credit cards? Do they ask about unemployment income?

Some lenders might ask about income sources on applications, but unemployment benefits are temporary income so most don't count it anyway. Credit checks themselves don't reveal benefit status.

Right, they're looking at your employment record through the state database, not running any kind of financial background check.

Exactly. They already have access to your wage records from employers who pay into the unemployment insurance system.

Good point about it being insurance! You're basically collecting on insurance you already paid for through payroll deductions.

Right! It's your money that you and your employers contributed to the fund while you were working.

Of course! I would never lie on the application. I just want to make sure the legitimate process won't hurt my credit.

Yeah as long as you're honest about your work history and follow the rules, you have nothing to worry about credit-wise.

Wow, that's exactly what I was about to do! Good thing I asked here first.

Yeah don't wait! If you're eligible, you should apply as soon as possible. You can't get benefits for weeks before you apply.

That's a good distinction. Unemployment is temporary income support, not a debt or loan that needs to be repaid.

Exactly. Unless you commit fraud and end up owing money back, there's no debt component to unemployment benefits.

How does Claimyr work exactly? Do they just help you get through the phone queue?

Yeah, they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

That's probably just normal fluctuation or maybe you paid down some credit card balances with your benefit money.

Yeah probably, but the point is unemployment didn't hurt it at all!

Good idea to check their official documentation. I should have looked there first!

Yeah their FAQ section is pretty comprehensive about the application process and requirements.

This is smart advice. Most creditors are understanding if you communicate with them proactively about temporary job loss.

Right, and unemployment benefits provide some income to help you stay current on important bills while you look for work.

That's very reassuring coming from someone in the industry! Thank you for the insider perspective.

What about when employers do background checks? Do they see unemployment history?

Employment background checks are different from credit reports. Some might include employment verification but that's separate from credit information.

You're right, I'm overthinking this. Going to file my application today!

Good! The sooner you apply, the sooner you can start receiving benefits if you qualify.

I've been thinking about trying Claimyr too. The regular phone lines are impossible.

It's worth it if you really need to talk to someone. Check out their demo video to see how it works - https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

Thank you everyone for all the helpful responses! I feel much better about applying now.

Good luck with your application! Hope you get approved quickly.