How do you file for unemployment in Washington - completely lost on the process

Everything is done online through the Washington ESD website now. Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'Apply for Benefits' button. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months including dates, wages, and reason for separation. The system will walk you through each step.

Make sure you apply as soon as possible! There's a waiting week before benefits start, and you want to get that clock ticking. Also, you'll need to file weekly claims every week even while your initial claim is being processed.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I had questions during my application. If you run into issues or your claim gets stuck, there's a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling.

Don't forget you'll need to register with WorkSource Washington for job search requirements. They'll tell you about this after you apply but it's good to know ahead of time. You have to log job search activities every week.

ugh the whole system is such a mess. took me 3 tries to get my application submitted without errors. make sure you have a good internet connection and don't use your phone

One important thing - make sure you understand the difference between 'able and available' and 'standby' status. If you're on temporary layoff expecting to return to work, that's standby. If you're permanently separated and looking for new work, that's regular UI. The requirements are different.

Just a heads up - after you apply, your claim might go into 'adjudication' which means they need to verify something. Don't panic if this happens, it's pretty common. Could take a few weeks to resolve though.

Pro tip: Take screenshots of everything as you go through the application. If something goes wrong, you'll have proof of what you entered. Also save your confirmation number when you finish.

Remember you can't collect unemployment if you quit without good cause. Since you said you were laid off, you should be fine. But they will contact your employer to verify.

I'd suggest applying early in the week if possible. I applied on a Friday and had to wait until Monday for any processing to start. Every day counts when you need the money.

dont forget to keep track of any severance pay or vacation payout. that can affect when your benefits start

Make sure you have your bank account info ready if you want direct deposit. It's much faster than waiting for checks in the mail. You can set it up during the application or add it later.

Watch out for scam emails after you apply. Washington ESD will never ask for your login info or SSN via email. All legitimate communication comes through your SecureAccess Washington account.

One more thing - if you have any issues with the application or need to speak to someone, calling first thing in the morning (8 AM) gives you the best chance of getting through. The lines get jammed later in the day.

good luck with everything! the first application is always nerve-wracking but its really not that complicated once you start

Just to recap the main steps: 1) Go to esd.wa.gov 2) Click Apply for Benefits 3) Have your employment history ready 4) Complete the application 5) Wait for determination letter 6) File weekly claims 7) Register with WorkSource. You've got this!

Make sure you answer all the questions honestly. They cross-check everything and lying on your application is fraud. Better to be upfront about any complications.

If you worked in other states recently, you might need to file an interstate claim. The system will ask about this and guide you through it if needed.

Don't forget to keep your contact info updated. If they can't reach you, it can delay your benefits. Check your account regularly for messages.

Final tip: be patient with the process. It can take 2-3 weeks from application to first payment, sometimes longer if there are issues. But once it's set up, weekly payments are usually pretty reliable.