How does one get unemployment benefits through Washington ESD - complete beginner here

You'll need to file your initial claim online at esd.wa.gov. You can't do it in person anymore - everything is online now. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates of employment.

The whole process starts with creating an account on Washington ESD's website. Once you file your initial claim, you'll get a determination letter in about 2-3 weeks telling you if you qualify and how much your weekly benefit amount will be. Then you have to file weekly claims every week to actually get paid.

Fair warning - getting through to Washington ESD by phone is nearly impossible. I spent literally hours trying to call them when I had questions about my claim. If you run into any issues or need to talk to someone, there's actually a service called Claimyr that can help you get through to an actual ESD agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

The hardest part honestly is just getting started. Once you understand the process it's pretty straightforward. Make sure you file your claim as soon as possible because benefits don't backdate to when you lost your job - they start from when you actually file.

ugh the whole system is so confusing when you're new to it. I remember feeling completely overwhelmed when I first had to file. The website isn't exactly user-friendly either.

One thing to keep in mind - your first payment usually takes 3-4 weeks after you file your initial claim. There's processing time plus they have to verify your employment history with your former employer. Budget accordingly because it's not immediate money.

Just to be clear on the requirements - you need to have worked in Washington state and earned enough wages in your base period (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters). If you just moved here from another state it gets more complicated.

Make sure you keep records of EVERYTHING. Every job application, every contact with employers, every communication with Washington ESD. You'll need it if there are any questions about your claim later.

Seriously though, if you run into any snags with your claim or need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD, don't waste time trying to call them directly. I used Claimyr twice and both times got connected to an agent within minutes instead of waiting hours on hold.

One more important thing - when you file your weekly claims, be completely honest about any work or income you had that week. Even small amounts need to be reported. Trying to hide income can get you in serious trouble with overpayments later.

The job search requirement is 3 contacts per week but make sure you understand what counts. Just browsing job sites doesn't count - you need to actually apply or contact employers directly.

Pro tip: set up your direct deposit information right away when you file your claim. Otherwise you'll be waiting for paper checks which take even longer to arrive.

Also be prepared for the possibility that your claim might go into adjudication if there are any questions about your separation from work. This can add several weeks to the process while they investigate.

Don't panic if you make a mistake on your application. You can usually correct minor errors, but it's better to take your time and get it right the first time to avoid delays.

The Washington ESD system can be glitchy sometimes too. If you get error messages or the site seems down, try again later or early in the morning when there's less traffic.

Make sure you register with WorkSource Washington too. It's required and helps with the job search requirement. Plus they have resources like resume help and job training programs.

honestly the whole thing is more complicated than it should be for something that's supposed to help people who just lost their jobs. Like we're already stressed and then have to navigate this bureaucratic maze.

Look, bottom line - if you need to actually speak with someone at Washington ESD about your claim and the phone lines aren't working for you, Claimyr is your best bet. I've recommended it to several people now and they've all had good experiences getting connected to agents who could actually help them.

Final advice - start the process today if you can. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits. And don't be afraid to ask questions here if you get stuck. Most of us have been through this process and are happy to help.

Just remember to keep filing those weekly claims even if your initial claim is still being processed. You don't want to miss any weeks once you're approved.