How do I know if I get approved for unemployment - Washington ESD notification process?

Thanks! Should I be worried that it's been 10 days with no letter yet?

No, 10 days is normal. They say up to 21 days for a decision, sometimes longer if there are issues with your claim.

Where exactly do I look for that? I'm logged in but don't see anything called Monetary Determination.

Go to 'View and Maintain Account Information' then look for 'Payment Information' or 'Benefit Information'. It might be under different menu names.

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work to get through to Washington ESD?

Yeah, worked for me. I was able to talk to someone about my claim status instead of just guessing from the online portal.

I used claimyr.com too when I couldn't figure out why my claim was taking so long. They got me connected to someone who explained the whole process.

What kind of issues would cause them to deny the claim?

Usually stuff like not earning enough in your base period, being fired for misconduct, or quitting without good cause. They investigate all that stuff.

Wait, I have to file weekly claims before I'm even approved??

Yes! You have to file for every week you want to claim benefits, even while your initial claim is pending. Don't miss any weeks or you'll lose those benefits.

This is super important - you can't go back and claim weeks you missed filing for.

I think they're worried about fraud if they send benefit info by email. But I agree the website is terrible to navigate.

makes sense i guess but still annoying

How do you know if it's in adjudication? Does it say that somewhere?

Yeah, it'll show 'Adjudication in Progress' or something similar in your account. They might also send you forms to fill out.

Where do I find that option? I don't remember seeing it when I set up my account.

Should be under account settings or preferences. It's easy to miss but super helpful for staying updated.

Exactly! I'm in the same boat. Bills don't stop coming just because Washington ESD is taking their time.

I feel you both. It's stressful not knowing. Just keep filing those weekly claims and hopefully you'll hear something soon.

Good to know! I would probably freak out if I got multiple official letters in a row.

Yeah I thought I was in trouble at first lol. But they're just covering all their bases with the paperwork.

Yeah, that's exactly why I started using it. The regular phone lines are basically useless with how busy they always are.

Might have to check out that claimyr.com site if I run into issues. Getting hung up on constantly is so frustrating.

Is that automatic or do I need to request it?

It's automatic. Washington ESD sends it to everyone unless you specifically opt for direct deposit instead.

3 weeks is getting to the longer side but not unheard of. Have you tried calling to check on the status?

Tried calling but could never get through. Maybe I should try that Claimyr thing people keep mentioning.

Yeah I've been reading about the job search requirements. Seems like a lot of hoops to jump through.

It is, but it's worth it if you need the income support. Just stay on top of all the requirements and you'll be fine.

That's exactly how I feel right now! Like maybe I should have answered something differently.

I'm sure you did fine. They'll contact you if they need clarification on anything.

Good thinking! I hadn't checked there. Going to look now.

Yeah, sometimes their emails get flagged as spam for some reason. Always worth checking just in case.

That's somewhat reassuring. I hope it doesn't come to that but good to know there's a process.

Yeah, appeals are pretty common. The initial review is sometimes rushed so the appeal process can catch things they missed.

Thanks for the encouragement! This whole process is more stressful than I expected.

I totally get it. It's a lot when you're already dealing with being unemployed. But you'll get through it.