How do you know if you get unemployment approved in Washington?

Thanks! Should I be doing anything while I wait or just sit tight?

Keep looking for work and document your job search activities. Even if your claim is approved, you'll need to show you're actively seeking employment to continue receiving benefits.

Same here - the phone system is impossible. I've been trying to call for days just to get a status update.

If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD by phone, I actually found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an agent. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Saved me hours of calling.

How do I know when I can file my first weekly claim? Will they email me or something?

You'll get instructions in your determination letter and you can also check your online account. Usually you can start filing weekly claims the Sunday after your claim is approved.

That's really helpful to know! Did you have any issues with your claim or was it pretty straightforward?

Mine was straightforward - laid off due to company downsizing with proper documentation. If you were fired or quit, it might take longer because they need to investigate.

What if they deny my claim? Can I appeal?

Yes, you have 30 days from the determination date to file an appeal if you're denied. The letter will include appeal instructions.

I feel you. Been 3 weeks for me too and I'm starting to stress about bills.

Seriously try Claimyr if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked to get me through to an agent who could check my claim status.

This is super helpful! I'll keep checking my account for these signs. How often should I check?

I'd check daily, but don't obsess over it. Updates usually happen during business hours Monday-Friday.

That's reassuring to hear! How strict are they about filing weekly claims on time?

Pretty strict - you have a specific window each week (usually Sunday-Saturday) to file. Miss it and you might lose that week's benefits.

Wait, so even if approved I don't get paid for the first week?

Correct - the first week you're eligible is your waiting week. You'll file a claim for it but won't receive payment unless you exhaust all other benefits.

10 business days sounds reasonable. I'm at about 14 calendar days now so hopefully soon!

Hang in there! The waiting is definitely the hardest part but once you get that approval letter it's such a relief.

Adjudication means they're investigating something about your claim - could be reason for job separation, wages, or work search requirements. These take longer, sometimes 4-6 weeks.

If you're stuck in adjudication, that's exactly when you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. Claimyr helped me get through when I had adjudication issues - they can actually explain what's holding up your claim.

I didn't know they had text alerts! Where do I find that option?

Log into your SecureAccess Washington account and look for notification preferences. You can set up alerts for claim updates, payment notifications, etc.

Congratulations! That gives me hope that mine will come through soon too.

Awesome news! See, the waiting does eventually end. Now you can start filing your weekly claims.

How many work search activities do I need to do each week?

Currently it's 3 work search activities per week. Keep detailed records of your job search - employer names, dates, positions applied for, etc.

Thanks for the encouragement. The waiting is definitely the hardest part but hearing everyone's experiences helps a lot.

Do the payments go to a debit card or direct deposit?

Washington ESD automatically sends a debit card but you can switch to direct deposit once you receive it. Direct deposit is usually faster.

That's good to know! I was worried that the processing delay would eat into my benefit time.

Nope, your benefit year starts from your initial filing date regardless of processing delays.

Mine should be straightforward - company layoffs due to budget cuts with proper notice.

That sounds like it should process smoothly then. Those are usually the easiest claims for Washington ESD to approve.

I'll definitely keep that in mind if I run into any issues. Hopefully I won't need it but good to know the option exists.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful information and encouragement. This has been really reassuring and informative!