How do you get approved for unemployment in Washington ESD?

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the general employment info?

Just the general info for the initial application. Washington ESD may request documentation later during the review process.

What's a base period? I worked full time for 2 years before getting laid off.

Base period is the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. With 2 years of work you should definitely meet the monetary requirements.

Never heard of that service before. Does it actually work?

Yeah it worked for me. Saved me hours of redialing. You just enter your info and they call the Washington ESD line repeatedly until they get through.

Interesting, might have to try that if I run into issues with my claim.

When do I start filing weekly claims? Right after I submit the initial application?

Yes, you should get instructions after filing your initial claim. Usually you can start filing weekly claims the Sunday after your claim week begins.

Same here! The SecureAccess Washington login was giving me problems for days.

right?? and then trying to navigate to the right forms is like a maze

What kind of things trigger adjudication? My layoff was pretty straightforward.

Layoffs are usually fine. It's more things like quitting, being fired for cause, or if there's conflicting information between you and your employer about the separation reason.

I'm in adjudication right now for 3 weeks and still waiting. It's nerve-wracking not knowing when it'll be resolved.

What counts as a job search activity?

Applying for jobs, networking events, career fairs, informational interviews. There's a list on the Washington ESD website of approved activities.

I thought it was 2 activities per week not 3?

It's 3 for most people unless you're in a specific program or have a waiver.

I hear you. The wait times are ridiculous and the website crashes constantly.

At least we have unemployment benefits though. Some states make it way harder to qualify.

Good point. Should I contact my former employer to make sure we're on the same page?

It wouldn't hurt to ask HR what they plan to report as the reason for separation, just to avoid surprises.

Are those still open? I thought a lot closed during COVID.

Most are back open now with limited hours. Check the WorkSource website for locations and schedules.

How long do you have to file an appeal?

30 days from the date of the determination. Don't wait - file as soon as possible if you disagree with their decision.

Does it cost anything to use?

There's a fee but honestly worth it to actually get through to Washington ESD. Check their website for current pricing.

What's standby? My company said the layoff was permanent.

Standby is for temporary layoffs where you expect to return within 8 weeks. Since yours is permanent, regular UI is what you want to file for.

How long did it take for your claims to get approved?

First time was about 3 weeks, second time took 5 weeks because of adjudication. But I got backpay for the waiting period both times.

Good tip! I'll make sure to check email regularly.

That's reassuring to hear. I've been worried I might get denied for some reason I don't know about.

Most denials are for people who quit without good cause or were fired for misconduct. Layoffs are usually straightforward approvals.

I only worked in Washington so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Perfect, then Washington ESD is definitely where you want to file.

Good luck! Feel free to come back with questions if you run into any issues during the process.

Remember that Claimyr service if you need to reach Washington ESD by phone. Saved me a lot of headaches.