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

Thank you! Do I need to wait a certain amount of time after being laid off or should I file right away?

File as soon as possible! Your benefit year starts the week you file, not the week you became unemployed. Don't delay.

What kind of job search activities do I need to do? Is there a minimum number?

You need to do at least 3 job search activities per week. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or taking training courses. Keep a log of everything you do.

Is that one of those paid services? I'm already tight on money being unemployed.

It's worth checking out their site for the details. When you're dealing with weeks of no income, sometimes you need help getting through to resolve issues quickly.

What would cause it to go into adjudication? I was just laid off due to slow business.

Layoffs are usually pretty straightforward, but sometimes they still need to verify details with your employer. Just be honest about everything when you file.

Great, that's encouraging... Are there certain times that work better for using the site?

Try early morning or late evening when fewer people are online. The site gets overloaded during business hours.

How do I know how much I'll get in benefits?

It's based on your wages from the past year. The system calculates it automatically when you file. You'll see your weekly benefit amount in your account after your claim is processed.

Wait, so I have to wait a whole week before getting any money?

You still need to file for that first week, you just won't get paid for it. It's like a deductible. After that, you get paid weekly if you're eligible.

That's reassuring to hear from someone who's been through it. How long did it take to get your first payment?

My first time was about 2 weeks after filing. Second time took longer because of some verification issues, but that's where services like Claimyr can help if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD.

What if I don't have all my pay stubs? Will that be a problem?

You don't need pay stubs for the initial application. Washington ESD gets wage information from employers directly. But keep any documentation you have in case they ask questions later.

This is exactly what I was worried about. Is it really that bad?

Don't let horror stories scare you. Most claims go through without major issues. The problem cases get talked about more, but plenty of people get benefits without drama.

You can work part-time and still get partial unemployment benefits, but you have to report all earnings on your weekly claims. Washington ESD will reduce your benefits based on how much you earn.

Good to know! I was wondering about that too.

How do they usually contact you if there's an issue?

Usually through your online account first, then by mail. They might call in some cases but that's less common. Check your account regularly for any messages or requests for information.

Have you tried calling them? Maybe there's an issue with your claim that needs to be resolved.

I've been trying to call every day but can never get through. The line is always busy or I get disconnected after waiting on hold for hours.

This is exactly the situation where Claimyr helped me. They can get you connected to an actual person at Washington ESD instead of fighting the phone system yourself.

How common is it to get denied? I'm worried I might have done something wrong on my application.

Most straightforward layoff cases get approved. Denials are more common when there are questions about why you left your job or if there are eligibility issues. Don't stress about it too much.

Do I need to do this before I file my unemployment claim or can I do it after?

You can do it after filing your initial claim, but don't wait too long. You need to be registered before you start doing your weekly job search activities.

Thanks for the encouragement. I guess I just need to jump in and get started.

What if I have a minor injury or something? Would that affect my eligibility?

It depends on whether the injury prevents you from doing your usual type of work. If you're not able to work, you might not be eligible for regular unemployment benefits. There are other programs for people who can't work due to disability.

What kind of information should I keep in the log?

Date, employer name, type of contact (application, phone call, etc.), and any follow-up. Keep it simple but complete. Better to have too much information than too little.

Thanks everyone for all the advice! I feel much more confident about getting started now. Going to file my claim this weekend.

Good luck! Remember to file your weekly claims on time and keep up with your job search. You've got this!

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

Exactly. Most people don't need extra help, but when you do need it, you really need it. Having a backup plan never hurts.