How do I know if I'm approved for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

I see 'Claim Status: Valid' but still no payments. Is that normal?

Yes, first payment usually takes 2-3 weeks after approval. Make sure you're filing your weekly claims on time.

I haven't gotten anything in the mail yet. Should I be worried?

Not necessarily. Check your correspondence section online first - they send most things electronically now.

How does that work exactly? I've been trying to call for days.

They basically handle the calling process for you and connect you when an agent becomes available. Way better than sitting on hold forever.

Sounds too good to be true. What's the catch?

No catch, just a service fee. But honestly worth it if you need to talk to someone quickly about your claim status.

I see $385/week listed. Does that mean I'm good to go?

Yep! That's your weekly benefit amount. You should start seeing deposits once you complete a few weekly claims.

Right? Why can't they just have a big green checkmark that says APPROVED or something?

Because Washington ESD makes everything unnecessarily complicated. Same reason their phone system hangs up on you constantly.

How many job contacts do I need to log each week?

Usually 3 per week, but check your individual requirements in your account. Some people have different numbers based on their situation.

Thanks, I'll double check that section.

Same here. It's ridiculous how long everything takes.

This is exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. Got through to an agent in like 20 minutes and they explained my whole claim status over the phone.

Mine doesn't say any of that, just shows the Valid status and benefit amount.

Then you're good! Just keep filing weekly and the money should start coming.

What's a waiting week?

It's like a penalty week where you don't get paid even though you're approved. Usually only applies in certain situations.

Washington eliminated the waiting week a few years ago for most regular unemployment claims.

I don't think so. How do I set that up?

Should be in your account settings somewhere. Makes it way easier to track updates.

Tell me about it. Website crashes constantly.

Try logging in early morning or late evening. Less traffic.

Where would I find those?

In your correspondence/inbox section. They'll send notices there about any problems with your claim.

I was laid off due to company downsizing, so hopefully that's straightforward.

Layoffs are usually pretty simple. You should be fine if that's the case.

How much does Claimyr cost?

Check their website at claimyr.com for current pricing. Worth it if you value your time and sanity.

Good point, I should double check that.

Yeah, I know someone who waited weeks for payment and it turned out their routing number was wrong.

Still haven't gotten that letter. Should I be concerned?

If it's been more than 2-3 weeks and you don't see it online, definitely call them.

Oh wow I didn't think of that. Let me check.

Yeah, their emails get flagged sometimes. Check all your folders.

That's helpful, thanks. I think I'm overthinking this.

Most people do! The system makes it way more confusing than it needs to be.

That gives me hope. I'm at about the 1.5 week mark now.

You're right on track then. Should see something soon.

I might have to try that if I don't see a payment by next week.

The video demo on their site shows exactly how it works if you want to see before trying it.

This is really reassuring, thank you! I was getting worried that something was wrong since I hadn't heard anything definitive. It's good to know that having the "Valid" status and benefit amount visible means I'm actually approved. I'll keep filing weekly and wait for that first payment. Appreciate everyone's help in this thread!