How do I sign up for unemployment in Washington state?

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

Basic info is fine for the initial application - employer names, addresses, dates worked, and reason for separation. They'll ask for more documentation later if needed.

Did you have any problems with the website? I keep hearing it crashes a lot.

I filed mine early morning around 7am and had no issues. Avoid peak times like lunch or evenings when everyone's trying to access it.

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

Yeah I was skeptical too but it actually worked. They handle the calling part and connect you when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

Interesting, might have to try that if I can't get through the normal way.

Good to know! My last day was Wednesday so I should be able to file this Sunday then?

Exactly! And make sure you keep filing your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still being processed.

Six weeks?? I can't afford to wait that long for benefits to start.

That's not typical - most claims get approved within 2-3 weeks if there are no issues. Sounds like yours might have gone into adjudication.

Should I gather actual contact numbers for my previous employers or just the main company numbers?

Main company numbers are fine. Washington ESD will contact them directly if they need more information.

Also make sure you know your exact last day of work and first day you were available to work. They ask for both dates.

You can still qualify if you were fired, but it depends on the reason. If it was for misconduct you might be disqualified, but if it was performance-related or not your fault you should be fine.

File anyway and let Washington ESD make the determination. Even if you're initially denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs or other stuff too?

Applying for jobs, networking events, career fairs, even updating your LinkedIn profile counts. Keep detailed records because they can audit your job search log.

Where do I find the tutorial on their site?

It's under the 'File a Claim' section. There's a video guide that shows you exactly what each screen looks like.

What if I'm not sure about exact dates? I didn't keep great records.

Do your best to be accurate. Check old pay stubs, tax documents, or bank statements if you have them. Close is better than wildly wrong.

The online system is actually pretty user-friendly once you get used to it. And it's available 24/7 which is nice.

maybe for young people but some of us need to talk to an actual human being

How much does something like that cost though?

It's worth it when you consider how much time you save not sitting on hold. Check their website for current info.

Is that something I do right away or can I wait until my claim is approved?

You should do it right away. The job search requirements start immediately, not when your claim is approved.

So even if I file this Sunday, I won't get paid for that first week?

Correct, the first week is unpaid. It's Washington state policy. Plan accordingly.

Good tip! I'll double check those numbers before submitting.

You can also choose to get a debit card instead of direct deposit if you prefer that option.

I'm getting two weeks severance pay. Does that affect when my benefits start?

Yes, you typically can't collect unemployment benefits for the weeks covered by severance pay. Washington ESD will calculate this for you.

You don't have to be a citizen but you need to be authorized to work in the US. Work visa holders can usually qualify if they meet the other requirements.

Thanks, I'll let them know they should still apply.

Good to know. Hopefully I won't need to worry about appeals but it's reassuring to know there's a process.

Exactly. And keep copies of everything you submit, just in case you need it later.

Perfect timing since I was planning to do this Sunday morning anyway. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice!

Good luck with your claim! Feel free to come back here if you run into any issues.

And remember about Claimyr if you need to reach Washington ESD by phone for any follow-up questions. Much easier than the regular phone system.