How do you file for unemployment in Washington - need step by step help

You should file as soon as possible after your last day of work. Go to esd.wa.gov and click on 'Apply for Benefits.' You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked. The process takes about 30-45 minutes online.

i filed last month, pretty straightforward but make sure you have ALL your employer info ready. they ask for exact addresses and phone numbers which i didnt have handy

Important note - you need to file your initial claim AND then file weekly claims every week to actually receive payments. Many people miss this step. After your initial application is approved, you'll get instructions on filing weekly claims through the eServices portal.

If you have trouble getting through to Washington ESD by phone for questions during the process, I discovered claimyr.com recently. It's a service that helps you actually reach a live agent instead of sitting on hold forever. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Really helped me when I had questions about my application status.

Make sure you understand the waiting week too - Washington has a one week waiting period before you can receive your first payment, even if approved immediately.

Also be prepared for possible adjudication if there are any questions about your separation from work. If your employer contests the claim or if there are any red flags, your claim might go into adjudication which can delay payments for weeks.

THE SYSTEM IS SO BROKEN!! I've been trying to file for 3 weeks and keep getting error messages. The website crashes constantly and when you call you just get hung up on!

For job search requirements, you need to register with WorkSource WA and maintain an active profile there. Document all your job search activities including applications, interviews, networking, and training. Keep detailed records because they can audit your job search log.

just want to say good luck! filing unemployment was scary for me too but once you get through the initial application it gets easier. the hardest part is just getting started

One more tip - keep copies of everything. Screenshot your application confirmation, save emails from ESD, and document all your weekly claim submissions. If there are ever issues, having records makes resolving them much easier.

You'll also need to set up your SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account if you don't already have one. That's how you access the eServices portal for filing weekly claims and checking your claim status.

Just to follow up on my earlier comment about claimyr.com - I ended up using them twice when I had questions about my weekly claims. Much better than the frustration of trying to call ESD directly. The service really does work for getting through to actual agents.

Don't forget about the ID verification step! Washington ESD uses ID.me for identity verification now. You'll need to verify your identity online using your phone or computer camera. Have your driver's license or state ID ready.

also make sure your bank account info is correct if you want direct deposit. takes forever to fix that if you mess it up

Final reminder about timing - your benefit year starts the week you file, not when you lost your job. So don't delay filing even if you're not sure about some details. You can always provide additional information later if needed.

The whole process was overwhelming for me too at first. But honestly once you get through the initial filing and first few weekly claims, it becomes routine. You've got this!

One last thing - if you worked in multiple states in the past 18 months, you might need to file an interstate claim. Just mention that during your application and they'll guide you through the process.

You're all set with the information provided here. The key points: file immediately at esd.wa.gov, have your employment history ready, complete ID verification, file weekly claims every week, register with WorkSource, and document your job search. Good luck with your claim!

Hope it goes smoothly for you! This thread will probably help a lot of other people in the same situation too.

And remember, if you run into any issues reaching Washington ESD for help, services like claimyr.com are there as a backup option. Sometimes having that resource available just gives you peace of mind during the process.