How do I file weekly unemployment claims with Washington ESD?

Thanks! So if I worked one day last week, I still report that even though it was only like 6 hours?

Yes, you must report ALL work and wages, even if it's just one hour. Washington ESD will calculate if you're eligible for partial benefits that week.

What counts as a job search contact? Does applying online count?

Yes, online applications count. So do networking contacts, career fairs, interviews, etc. Just keep detailed records with dates and contact info.

Oh no, what happened when you missed the deadline? Did you lose that week's benefits?

I had to call Washington ESD and explain what happened. They let me file late but it was a huge hassle. Took me forever to get through on the phone. Actually ended up using Claimyr to help me reach an agent faster - found it at claimyr.com and they have this demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Yes, you must file every single week you want to claim benefits, even if you didn't work at all that week. If you don't file, you won't get paid for that week.

that seems like a lot of work for no reason

It's how they track that you're still unemployed and actively looking for work. It's required by federal law, not just Washington state.

What happens if I answer one of the questions wrong by accident?

You can usually correct it on the next week's filing, but if it's something major you might need to call Washington ESD to fix it.

It's 3 job search activities per week for most people. The requirement might be different if you're in a training program or have certain work search waivers, but standard is 3.

Okay that makes sense. I was overthinking it. Thanks for clarifying!

Good advice about filing early in the week. I'll definitely do that.

I second the record keeping advice. Washington ESD can audit your claim at any time and you need to have documentation ready.

If you're sick and unable to work, you should answer 'No' to the able and available question for those days. You might not be eligible for benefits that week, but you need to be honest.

That makes sense. Better to be honest than get in trouble later.

How does that Claimyr thing work exactly? I'm skeptical of paying for something that should be free.

I was skeptical too but it's not about paying for the call itself - it's about not wasting your entire day on hold. They handle the waiting and call you back when an agent is available. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Oh wow, I would have definitely reported my take-home pay. Thanks for that tip!

Yeah this is super important. Reporting the wrong amount can cause overpayment issues later.

That's reassuring to hear. I'm definitely overthinking this whole process.

yeah just be honest and consistent with your answers and youll be fine

This happened to me and I waited a week thinking it would resolve automatically. Big mistake - ended up creating more problems.

Exactly. The sooner you address technical issues, the easier they are to fix.

That's really helpful! I was worried about finding 3 job postings to apply for every week.

Just make sure you document everything properly with dates, contact names, and how you made the contact.

Keep filing! You might be eligible for partial unemployment benefits if your part-time earnings are below a certain threshold. Washington ESD will calculate this automatically when you report your wages.

Good to know. I was worried I'd have to choose between the part-time job and my unemployment benefits.

I always use my laptop just to be safe. Too paranoid about the mobile version glitching out.

That's smart. I've never had issues with mobile but better safe than sorry when it comes to your benefits.

How long does it usually take for the payment to show up after filing?

Usually 2-3 business days for direct deposit, longer if you're getting a paper check. But it can vary especially during busy periods.