How do I file for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

First thing you need to do is go to esd.wa.gov and create an account if you don't have one. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked. Make sure you have your bank account info for direct deposit too.

Make sure you file ASAP because benefits are backdated to when you file, not when you lost your job. Also, you have to file weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still pending.

I had to call Washington ESD multiple times when I filed because their system kept glitching. If you run into problems, try using Claimyr (claimyr.com) - it helped me get through to an actual person instead of sitting on hold for hours. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

The job search requirement is 3 job contacts per week but you don't have to report them when you file your weekly claim. Just keep a log in case they audit you later. WorkSourceWA activities can count toward this requirement too.

ugh the whole system is so confusing!! I filed 2 weeks ago and still haven't heard anything back. My claim just says 'under review' and I'm starting to panic about rent

Pro tip: when you're filling out the application, be really careful about the reason you're unemployed. If you put 'quit' instead of 'laid off' it can delay your claim for weeks during adjudication.

I tried calling the unemployment office yesterday and was on hold for 3 hours before giving up. This is ridiculous - how are people supposed to get help?

Make sure you understand the waiting week. You won't get paid for your first week of unemployment - it's just how the system works in Washington.

Been through this process 3 times unfortunately. Key things: file immediately, keep detailed records of everything, don't skip any weekly claims even if you think you might not qualify that week. The system is unforgiving if you miss deadlines.

The whole Washington ESD system is designed to make you give up. They make it as difficult as possible hoping you'll just find another job instead of collecting benefits you're entitled to.

I'm in the same boat - just lost my job on Friday. This thread is super helpful! One question though - do I need to wait until Monday to file or can I do it over the weekend?

Quick question about the work search log - do I need to start tracking job searches immediately or only after I'm approved?

If you get stuck anywhere in the process, document everything. Take screenshots, keep emails, write down who you talked to and when. You'll need this if you have to appeal anything later.

Remember that your benefit amount is based on your highest earning quarter in the past year, not your most recent job. So if you made more money at a previous job, that might actually help your benefit calculation.

Just want to second the Claimyr recommendation from earlier. I was skeptical at first but it really does work. When you're dealing with Washington ESD bureaucracy, sometimes you need all the help you can get.

Don't forget about the tax implications! Unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld or pay quarterly estimated taxes.

One more tip - if you're not sure about something, it's better to call and ask than to guess. Wrong information can delay your claim for weeks.

Good luck OP! The system isn't perfect but it does work if you're persistent and follow the rules. Don't get discouraged if it takes a few weeks.