How do people get unemployment benefits in Washington - complete beginner here

Thank you! So I file online and then what happens? Do they just start sending money or do I have to do something else?

After you file the initial claim, you'll need to file a weekly claim every week to certify you're still unemployed and looking for work. That's how you actually get the payments.

What's a base period? And how much do I need to have earned?

Base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. For wage requirements, you need at least $3,850 in your base period and wages in at least 2 quarters. With 2 years of retail work you should be fine.

Did you have any issues getting through to Washington ESD when you applied? I keep hearing people complain about not being able to reach them.

Actually yes - I had to call them about a week after filing because my claim was stuck in adjudication. Couldn't get through for days until I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that helped me get connected. There's even a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

What kind of documents did they ask for? I want to be prepared.

they wanted my ID verification, proof of wages, and separation documents. just have everything ready when you apply

This is good advice. I waited 3 weeks to file thinking I might get my job back and it just delayed everything unnecessarily.

So I should file right away even though I'm still hoping my employer might call me back?

Yes, absolutely file right away. If you get called back to work, you just stop filing weekly claims. But if you don't get called back, you'll have already started the process.

Do I need to start the job search right away or can I wait until my claim is approved?

You need to start looking for work the week you file your claim. The job search requirement begins immediately, not when you get approved.

Is that a separate website or part of the Washington ESD site?

It's separate - worksourcewa.com - but your Washington ESD account will remind you to register there.

How long does adjudication usually take? Should I be worried about it?

It varies but usually 2-6 weeks. Since you were laid off, you probably won't have adjudication issues unless there's something unusual about your separation.

What happens if I accidentally miss filing a weekly claim?

you can call and ask them to reopen it but its a hassle. just set a reminder on your phone to file every sunday

How much does something like that cost? Seems like we shouldn't have to pay extra just to reach a government agency.

I totally agree it's frustrating that we need outside help, but when you're waiting weeks for benefits and can't get through on your own, it's worth it. The service connects you directly to an agent instead of dealing with busy signals.

Is there a way to estimate what I might get before I apply?

Washington ESD has a benefit calculator on their website that can give you an estimate if you have your wage information handy.

So if I find a job after 10 weeks, I don't get to keep the rest of the money?

Correct - unemployment is only for weeks you're actually unemployed. If you find work, you stop filing claims and the remaining balance stays there in case you become unemployed again within the same benefit year.

Should I have taxes taken out or just pay later?

I always have them withhold 10% federal taxes to avoid a big tax bill later. It's optional but recommended if you don't want to owe money next tax season.

That's good to know! So I could take a small part-time job while looking for full-time work?

yep just make sure to report all your earnings when you file your weekly claim. being honest about income is super important

This is all really helpful. I feel much more confident about applying now. Should I file today or wait until Monday?

File today if you can! The sooner you file after becoming unemployed, the sooner your benefit year starts. You've already lost income by waiting to ask these questions.

Thank you everyone for all the help! I'm going to file my claim right now.

You're welcome! Don't hesitate to ask if you run into any issues during the process.

How does that even work? Do they have some special phone number or something?

They use technology to navigate the phone system and wait on hold for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold for hours yourself.

I needed to hear that. I was feeling guilty about applying but you're right - I did pay into it.

Exactly! It's insurance you paid for. Use it while you look for your next job.

Good point! I definitely want to get paid as quickly as possible.

Smart thinking! Also make sure your bank account information is accurate - wrong account info will delay your payments significantly.

Thanks for the encouragement! Hopefully I'll find something soon and won't need benefits for long.

That's the right attitude! Use the time to find a job that's a good fit rather than rushing into the first thing available.