How does claiming unemployment work in Washington state - complete beginner needs help

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs from all my jobs or just the most recent one?

You'll need employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and gross wages for all jobs in the last 18 months. Pay stubs help but aren't always required if you have the basic info.

What does 'able and available' actually mean? I keep seeing that phrase everywhere.

It means you're physically able to work, available to accept work, and actively seeking employment. You can't be on vacation, sick, or turning down suitable job offers.

Wait, is that legit? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for two weeks about my adjudication issue and keep getting hung up on.

Yeah it's real! I was skeptical too but they basically navigate the phone system for you and get you in the callback queue. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

This is really helpful - I'll definitely keep this in mind if I run into issues!

Do I need to start the job search stuff right away or can I wait until I'm approved?

Start immediately! You need to be actively job searching from day one of your claim. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time.

Three weeks isn't unusual unfortunately. If there are no issues with your claim, it can still take 2-4 weeks for initial processing.

that's ridiculous when people need money for rent and groceries

I agree it's frustrating, but that's just how government bureaucracy works. The important thing is to keep filing your weekly claims even while waiting.

Your weekly benefit amount is based on your highest earning quarter in your base period. Maximum weekly benefit in Washington is currently $999, but most people get somewhere between $300-700 per week depending on their earnings history.

That would definitely help cover my basic expenses while I job hunt. How long can I collect benefits?

Standard unemployment in Washington lasts up to 26 weeks, but it depends on the unemployment rate in your area. Some regions qualify for extended benefits.

I think I already have a SAW account from when I had to do something with the state a few years ago. Will that work?

Yes, same account! Just make sure you remember your login info or reset your password before you start the application process.

Oh wow, I didn't think about taxes. Should I have them withhold taxes automatically?

I'd recommend it unless you're good at saving money for taxes. It's easier to have them take out 10% upfront than to owe hundreds or thousands later.

Good point! You can change your tax withholding election anytime through your online account if you change your mind.

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits! Washington has a partial benefit formula. Generally, if you earn less than 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount, you'll get reduced benefits rather than losing them completely.

That's relief! I was worried taking any work would disqualify me entirely.

Just make sure you report ALL wages when you file your weekly claim. Even if it's just $50, report it. Getting caught not reporting income can result in overpayment demands and penalties.

Adjudication is when they're reviewing an issue with your claim (like if your employer contests it). An appeal is what you file if you disagree with their decision. Disqualified usually means you can requalify later, denied means your claim was rejected entirely.

Thank you! I wish they had a glossary or something on their website.

Should I avoid certain times when filing my weekly claims then?

sunday evenings are usually the worst. i try to file mine sunday morning or early afternoon

Good advice! I'm already learning that documentation is key with government stuff.

Yes! I had a glitch where my weekly claim didn't go through properly and having the screenshot with the confirmation number helped me prove I filed on time.

Good to know there are options if I run into problems. Hopefully my claim will be straightforward!

might have to try this myself, still waiting on my claim to move forward

Is there a specific format for the job search log or can I just keep notes?

They don't specify a format but I use a simple spreadsheet with columns for date, employer, position, method (online application, phone call, etc.), and any follow-up. Make it easy to provide if they ask.

Exactly! And make sure your job search activities are reasonable for your field. Applying for jobs way below your skill level might not count as adequate job search.

Thank you everyone! This has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about getting started now.

You've got this! Feel free to ask more questions as you go through the process. This community is pretty good about helping each other out.

I was in tech, so probably pretty standard. But good to know there are special situations.

Tech should be straightforward. Just make sure to report any severance pay or unused vacation payouts correctly as they might affect your benefit start date.

How long did it take for your first payment to come through?

about 3 weeks total from when i first filed, but that included the waiting week. so really 2 weeks of processing time

Noted! Hopefully I won't need to call but good to know the best times.

Or just use that Claimyr thing I mentioned earlier - way easier than trying to time your calls perfectly.

What's considered a reasonable commute distance?

Generally up to an hour each way, but it can vary based on your profession and local job market. They're usually reasonable about it.

This whole thread has been amazing. Thank you all so much for taking the time to help a newcomer out!

That's what we're here for! Good luck with your claim and your job search. Hope you find something great soon.

Keep us posted on how it goes! And don't hesitate to ask if you run into any specific issues along the way.