How can you file for unemployment - Washington ESD first time filing help needed

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic info about where I worked?

Just the basic employment info is fine for filing. Washington ESD will verify everything with your employers directly.

Oh wow I didn't know that! I'll file today then. Does it matter what time of day?

Nope, time doesn't matter. Just get it done ASAP.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true with how impossible it is to reach anyone at ESD.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked for me when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Much better than dialing for hours.

I'll keep that in mind if I run into problems. Hopefully the online filing goes smoothly though.

It was definitely a layoff - the restaurant is cutting staff due to slow business. Should be straightforward then.

Perfect, layoffs are usually approved without issues as long as you meet the work history requirements.

Oh no, that sounds frustrating. Is there a better time to try filing?

maybe try early morning or late evening when fewer people are online? idk the site just sucks sometimes

So I have to do something every single week? What happens if I forget?

Yes, you must file weekly to get benefits. If you miss a week you can usually file it late but you might need to call ESD to explain why.

I missed filing one week and it was a nightmare trying to get it fixed. Don't forget!

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

I think it's 3 job search activities per week but check the requirements when you file. Could be applications, interviews, networking events, etc.

That's exactly what I'm worried about. What does adjudication mean?

Adjudication just means they're reviewing your claim to make sure you qualify. It can take a few weeks but most get approved eventually.

If your claim does get stuck in adjudication like mine did, that's when Claimyr really helped me get through to someone who could explain what was happening.

Good tip, thanks! Is there anything else I should set up ahead of time?

Just make sure your address is current and you have a reliable email since they send important notices electronically.

Oh that's good to know! So I could potentially get benefits for this week if I file today?

yep as long as your claim gets approved. the waiting week thing was eliminated a few years ago

That's reassuring. I've been working there for almost 2 years so hopefully that helps.

Yeah 2 years of work history should definitely meet the requirements. You'll be approved.

Thanks everyone for all the help! I'm going to file online right now.

Good luck! Come back here if you run into any issues.

Wow that would be so frustrating! Definitely will take screenshots.

Better safe than sorry with their buggy system.

That's what I needed to hear. I was getting pretty anxious reading about all the potential issues.

Most claims are straightforward, especially layoffs from established employers.

10 days isn't too bad. Were you able to backdate to your first week unemployed?

Yes, as long as you file within a reasonable time frame they'll backdate to when you actually became unemployed.

So the initial claim is like the application and weekly claims are like checking in each week?

Exactly! Initial claim = application. Weekly claims = getting paid each week.

I keep hearing about that service. Good to know it actually works.

Yeah it's legit. Much better than listening to busy signals all day.

I'm convinced! Filing right now. Thanks everyone for all the advice!

Good! Let us know how it goes.

Will do! Hopefully I'll have good news to share soon.

Fingers crossed for you!

Great job getting it done! You should hear something within a few days to a week.

Awesome! Now remember to file your weekly claim this Sunday.

Glad it went smoothly! The hard part is over.