How do i file for unemployment with Washington ESD - need step by step help

Thank you! Do I need exact addresses for all my previous employers or just the general location?

Exact addresses are best but if you can't find them, put what you remember and Washington ESD will verify with the employers directly.

Good to know, I was wondering about timing. So even though I just got laid off yesterday I should file today?

Yes absolutely file today if you can get all your info together.

Never heard of that service before. Is it legit or one of those scams?

It's legit, they just help you get through the phone queue faster. Saved me hours of calling and getting busy signals.

I'll keep that in mind if I have trouble getting through. Hopefully the online application goes smoothly.

How do I file the weekly claims? Is that on the same website?

Yes same website, you'll see the option after your initial claim is submitted. You have to report any work you did that week and any job search activities.

Oh no, that's frustrating. What time of day did you finally get it to work?

early morning like 6am seemed to work better, less traffic i guess

Do online applications count as job search contacts?

Yes online applications count. Just make sure you save confirmation emails or take screenshots as proof.

Wait I thought it was 2 job contacts per week not 3?

It's 3 per week in Washington state. Maybe you're thinking of a different state's requirements.

Good tip! How long does it usually take to start getting payments?

If everything goes smoothly, about 2-3 weeks after filing. But if they need to investigate anything it can take longer.

I think I threw that away already, will that be a problem?

You can probably get a copy from your former employer or check if you have online paystubs you can access.

Definitely planning to be 100% honest. Better safe than sorry.

This is so important! I know someone who got in trouble for not reporting some side gig income.

That's smart, I'll gather everything first. How far back do they want employment history?

They want 18 months of work history to calculate your benefit amount.

What's adjudication exactly?

It's when they need to investigate something about your claim, like verifying the reason you were laid off. It can take a few weeks but usually gets resolved.

If your claim does go into adjudication and you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about it, that's another situation where Claimyr really helps. Much easier than trying to get through on your own.

What if I have some limitations on the type of work I can do due to a minor injury?

You should probably talk to Washington ESD directly about that situation to make sure you answer correctly.

Is that something I do right away or can I wait until after I file my unemployment claim?

You can do it after filing your unemployment claim but don't wait too long, it's one of the ongoing requirements.

That's reassuring to hear. I've been putting it off because it seemed so overwhelming.

Totally understand that feeling! Just take it one section at a time and don't be afraid to save and come back if you need to look something up.

Good point, I moved recently so I need to make sure I use my current address.

I'll definitely check those out if I need help. Are they easy to find on the site?

Yeah they have a whole help section, look for 'How to File' or something similar.

What's the waiting week requirement?

There's a one week waiting period where you file your weekly claim but don't get paid for that week. It's just how the system works.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more confident about filing now.

You've got this! Feel free to ask if you run into any issues during the process.

And remember if you do need to talk to Washington ESD and can't get through, Claimyr is there to help. Good luck with everything!

Great idea, I'll definitely do that. Better to have too much documentation than not enough.