How do you know if your unemployment is approved Washington ESD?

I see 'claim processed' but not 'claim allowed' - does that mean it's still pending?

Yeah, 'claim processed' just means they received it. You're waiting for the actual determination which can take 2-3 weeks.

How long did it take for you to get your determination letter?

Mine took about 2 weeks, but I've heard it can be longer if there are any complications with your work history.

How much does that cost? I'm already broke waiting for benefits.

It's worth it when you consider how much time you save not calling Washington ESD over and over. The peace of mind alone was huge for me.

I might try this if I don't hear anything soon. The not knowing is driving me crazy.

Did you appeal the denial? You have 30 days from the determination date.

Yeah I'm working on the appeal now but it's another waiting game. So frustrating.

I haven't tried filing a weekly claim yet. Should I wait for the determination letter first?

No, you should file weekly claims starting the week after you applied, even if your claim is still pending. You can backdate if needed.

This is correct - file weekly claims regardless of your claim status to avoid missing out on benefits.

Right? I'm trying not to panic but rent is due soon.

Hang in there, once it's approved you'll get backpay for all the weeks you were eligible.

Where would I find those? I don't see anything obvious in my account.

Look for a section called 'correspondence' or 'messages' in your Washington ESD account. They might also mail them to you.

Good tip! I'll check my documents section.

Yeah mine was online only too. I think they're trying to go paperless.

I tried calling this morning and got the busy signal immediately. So frustrating.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr. Saved me hours of redialing and actually got to talk to someone who could help.

I'll keep checking my email. Haven't gotten anything yet.

Make sure to check spam folder too. Sometimes their emails end up there.

4 weeks is way too long. You should definitely call or use one of those services to get through to them.

Have you checked if your claim is in adjudication? That can add weeks to the process.

How much detail does the determination letter have? Will it explain why I was approved or denied?

Yes, it breaks down your earnings history, benefit amount calculation, and any conditions. Very detailed.

Mine shows $0 right now. Does that mean it's not approved yet?

Not necessarily. It might just mean they haven't processed the monetary determination yet. Give it more time.

How long did the debit card take to arrive?

About 5-7 business days. You can also set up direct deposit to avoid waiting for the card.

Found the claim summary page. It shows some basic info but still says 'pending' for status.

Pending is normal for the first couple weeks. Keep filing your weekly claims while you wait.

I keep hearing about this service. Might be worth trying if I don't hear anything by next week.

I was skeptical at first but it actually worked for me. Beat sitting on hold for hours.

That's what I'm really waiting for. All this uncertainty is killing me.

I know the feeling. Hang in there, it does eventually come through.

Good reminder. I've been so focused on the claim status I almost forgot about the job search requirements.

Yeah, stay on top of that. They can deny benefits if you don't meet the work search requirements.

Thanks for the timeline. That helps me know what to expect.

That's pretty typical. Some people get lucky and it's faster, others take longer if there are complications.

Will do! Hopefully I'll have good news to share soon.