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

Thanks! Do I need to wait a certain amount of time after getting laid off or can I file right away?

File as soon as possible - there's a waiting week but the sooner you file, the sooner your claim starts processing. Don't delay!

What if I don't remember the exact dates or addresses for all my previous jobs?

Do your best to get as close as possible. Check old pay stubs, tax forms, or even call former employers if needed. Washington ESD will verify the info anyway.

I had to estimate some dates on mine and it was fine. They'll contact your employers to verify everything.

Really? How does that work exactly? Is it expensive?

It's way cheaper than missing work to sit on hold all day. They basically handle the calling for you and connect you when an agent picks up. Saved me so much frustration.

Hmm sounds too good to be true but I'll check it out. The regular phone system is definitely broken.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week. Can be applications, interviews, networking events, etc. Keep detailed records.

wait i thought it was 2 contacts per week??

It's 3 contacts per week for most people. There are some exceptions for certain programs but standard is 3.

2 weeks isn't too bad. I was worried it would take months.

Mine took 4 weeks because they had to verify my employment. Some claims go into adjudication if there are any questions.

Yeah adjudication can definitely slow things down. That's when they need to investigate something about your claim.

I was definitely laid off - they eliminated my position due to budget cuts. Should be straightforward then.

Perfect, that's exactly what unemployment is for. You should have no issues getting approved.

Good point! I'll do that first before starting the application.

YES this is important. I tried to file without setting up SAW first and got confused trying to do everything at once.

That's a good idea. I'll look into that too.

Basic Food benefits can really help stretch your budget while you're job hunting.

What kind of things should I watch out for?

Mostly just make sure your weekly claims are filed on time and that you're meeting the job search requirements. Those are the main things that trip people up.

Good advice about keeping records. I'll make sure to document everything.

Screenshots saved me when there was a glitch with my weekly claim. Always keep proof!

Good to know there are options if I need help. Hopefully the online application goes smoothly though.

The online part is usually fine, it's when you need to actually talk to someone that it gets difficult. Nice to have a backup plan.

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

You've got this! It's not as scary as it seems once you get started.

Good luck with your claim! Hope you find a new job soon too.

Not union but that's good advice for others who might be reading this.

Thanks for the heads up about the waiting week. Every bit of financial planning helps right now.

Yeah it's like a one-week penalty for being unemployed. Makes no sense but that's government for you.

Oh right, I didn't think about taxes. I'll probably have them withheld to avoid a big bill later.

Smart choice. I forgot about taxes my first time and got hit with a big bill at tax time.

Thanks for the encouragement! I'm going to start the application today.