How does drawing unemployment work in Washington - complete beginner needs help

Thanks! Is there a deadline for applying? I got laid off three days ago.

You should apply as soon as possible, but you're still fine. Benefits start from the week you file, not when you lost your job, so don't delay.

What's a monetary determination letter? How long does that take to get?

It tells you how much your weekly benefit amount will be based on your past wages. Usually takes 1-2 weeks to arrive.

How does that work exactly? Do they charge you?

It's a service that handles the phone queue for you and calls you back when an agent is available. Much better than sitting on hold for 3+ hours like I was doing.

Adjudication means they're reviewing something about your claim - could be verifying your employment, checking if you quit vs were laid off, etc. It's normal but frustrating.

nobody told me it would take this long. bills dont wait for adjudication

What happens if I miss filing a weekly claim?

You lose that week's benefits permanently. They don't let you backdate missed weeks, so set a reminder on your phone.

Wait really? That seems harsh for just forgetting one week.

What counts as a job search contact? Just applying online?

Applying for jobs, networking contacts, career fairs, informational interviews. They want documented proof you're actively looking for work.

That's exactly why I started using Claimyr. Their system actually works and you don't waste entire days trying to reach someone.

might have to try that because this is ridiculous

Yes, unemployment is taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld or pay them when you file your return.

Ugh, so even when you're unemployed the government still wants their cut.

What if I had multiple jobs? Do I need info for all of them?

Yes, all employers from the last 18 months. Your benefit amount is calculated from all qualifying wages during your base period.

Good advice! I learned this the hard way after the system timed out on me three times on a Monday.

When do weekly claims usually open? Is there a specific time?

They open Sunday morning around 6 AM and you have until Saturday night to file for that week.

This is so important. I know someone who got in huge trouble for not reporting some part-time work income.

What if I'm not sure about something? Better to guess or leave it blank?

If you're not sure, put your best estimate and then call to clarify. Don't leave required fields blank.

3 weeks?! How am I supposed to pay bills for 3 weeks with no income?

I know it's rough. You might want to look into local emergency assistance programs or food banks while you wait.

Try clearing your browser cache and cookies. Sometimes that fixes the login issues.

ill try that thanks

That's a great idea. Is there a specific handbook or guide you'd recommend?

Look for the 'Unemployment Benefits Handbook' on their website. It covers everything from filing to appeals.

That's exactly the kind of situation where Claimyr really helps. Getting through to resolve adjudication issues is crucial and their callback system works way better than the regular phone lines.

wish i had known about that service earlier. would have saved me weeks of stress

Thanks for saying that. I do feel weird about it even though I know I didn't choose to get laid off.

Totally normal to feel that way, but this is exactly what the safety net is for. Focus on finding the right opportunity.

What's the difference? I thought they were the same thing.

Able and available means you're physically/mentally capable of working and not on vacation or anything. Actively seeking means you're actually looking for jobs and networking.

This distinction trips up a lot of people. Both boxes have to be checked or you won't get paid for that week.

That makes me feel better. I've been putting it off because it seemed so overwhelming.

Just dive in and file today. You can always call with questions later, but the sooner you file, the sooner benefits can start.

Can I use any bank account or does it have to be checking?

Has to be checking or savings at a US bank. They can't deposit to prepaid cards or credit union share draft accounts in some cases.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm going to file my claim today.

You've got this! Feel free to come back here if you run into any issues during the process.