How do you file unemployment with Washington ESD - complete beginner needs help

Everything is done online through the Washington ESD website at esd.wa.gov. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license or ID, and employment information for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, dates worked, and reason for separation. Don't panic - the process is pretty straightforward once you get started.

Just went through this myself last month. The online application takes about 30-45 minutes if you have all your info ready. Make sure you have exact dates of employment and your last employer's FEIN number if possible.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I had questions during my application. If you run into issues and can't reach them by phone, I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that helped me get connected to an actual person. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

ugh the washington esd website is so confusing!! took me like 3 tries to figure out where to actually start the application. make sure you create your SecureAccess Washington account first

The whole system is a nightmare. I filed 3 weeks ago and still haven't heard anything back. Just says 'claim under review' with no timeline.

Here's the step-by-step process: 1) Go to esd.wa.gov and click 'Apply for Benefits' 2) Create your SecureAccess Washington account if you don't have one 3) Complete the online application with all your employment history 4) Wait for your monetary determination letter 5) Start filing weekly claims once you receive it. The whole initial process usually takes 2-3 weeks.

Make sure you have your bank account info ready for direct deposit. Much faster than waiting for checks in the mail.

also dont forget you have to do job search stuff once your claim is approved. think its like 3 job contacts per week or something

One thing that caught me off guard - they ask for your reason for separation in detail. Be honest but don't overthink it. If you were laid off due to lack of work, just say that clearly.

The application asks for wages from all employers in the last 18 months. If you only worked one job, it's simple, but if you had multiple jobs you need info for all of them.

Just a heads up - Washington ESD is really backed up right now. I filed 4 weeks ago and just got my first payment. The waiting is the worst part but hang in there.

If you do run into delays or have questions about your claim status, seriously consider using Claimyr. I was skeptical at first but they actually got me through to a Washington ESD representative who cleared up my adjudication issue in 10 minutes. Would have saved me weeks of stress if I'd known about it earlier.

Whatever you do, don't give up if you get denied initially. You can appeal within 30 days and many people win their appeals. The system makes mistakes all the time.

One more important thing - make sure you file your weekly claims every week on time. The system is pretty unforgiving about late filings. You can file online starting Sunday for the previous week.

Keep copies of everything - your application, any letters from Washington ESD, your job search log, everything. You never know when you might need to reference something.

good luck! the first time is scary but once you get through the initial application its mostly just the weekly filing routine

Don't forget to report any part-time work or income when you file your weekly claims. Even small amounts need to be reported or you could end up with an overpayment issue later.

The Washington ESD website has a lot of good information if you poke around. There's a whole section explaining the process step by step.

Last tip - if you're having trouble with the online system, try using a different browser or clearing your cache. The website can be finicky sometimes.

You've got this! The application process might seem overwhelming but thousands of people go through it successfully every week. Take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.