How does unemployment work - confused about Washington ESD process

Thanks! Do I need to bring any documents or is it all online?

You'll need your Social Security number, employment history for the last 18 months, and bank info for direct deposit. Have your most recent pay stub handy too.

What counts as looking for work? Do I have to apply to a certain number of jobs?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. This can be applying to jobs, networking, going to job fairs, etc. Washington ESD might audit your job search activities.

What's adjudication? My claim status just changed to that and I'm freaking out.

Adjudication means they need to review something about your claim before approving it. Could be anything - how you lost your job, a wage discrepancy, whatever. It can take weeks unfortunately.

Is Claimyr legit? Sounds too good to be true.

How long before you get your first payment usually?

If everything goes smoothly, about 2-3 weeks after filing. But if they need to verify anything with your employer or if there's any complication, it can be months.

I know it sucks but that's reality. That's why having an emergency fund is so important. Some people qualify for emergency assistance programs while waiting.

It's not usually months unless there's a real problem with your claim. Most people get approved within a few weeks.

What's a waiting week?

It's an unpaid week that everyone has to serve. You still file the weekly claim but don't get paid for that first week. It's just how the system works.

That's so stupid. People need money immediately when they lose their job.

Is that separate from the Washington ESD website?

Yes, WorkSource is the state's job search system. Some people have to register there as part of their unemployment requirements.

How much does it cost though?

I'd rather not get into specific pricing but it was reasonable compared to the stress I was dealing with. They have different options depending on what you need.

Yes but you have to report all earnings on your weekly claim. They'll reduce your benefit amount based on how much you earn. There's a formula they use.

Generally you can earn up to your weekly benefit amount before they start reducing your payment significantly. But report everything honestly.

10 days isn't that long in unemployment world unfortunately. Keep filing your weekly claims and be patient. If it hits 3 weeks with no movement, then start making noise.

That's exactly when I used Claimyr actually. My claim was sitting there with no updates and I needed answers. Got through to someone who explained what was happening with my case.

What kind of fraud are you talking about?

Not reporting work or income, lying about being available for work, fake job searches, that kind of stuff. They do audit people and the penalties are severe.

How long does an appeal take?

Mine took about 6 weeks total. You get a hearing with a judge over the phone usually. Just be prepared with all your documentation.

I mean yeah it's frustrating but if you have a valid case it's worth pursuing. I got all my back pay once I won.

The system definitely has problems but it does help millions of people. It's better than having nothing.

Good point. I'll start doing that right away.

Yes! And save all correspondence from Washington ESD. Don't delete anything until your claim is completely closed.

What if there aren't enough suitable jobs in my area?

Then you expand your search area or consider retraining programs. WorkSource can help with both options.

Might have to try that. I've been calling for days with no luck.

Same here. The busy signal is driving me crazy.

Thanks everyone. I'm going to file my claim today. This has been super helpful!

Good luck! Come back if you have more questions. This community is pretty helpful with unemployment stuff.

Easy to say when you're not the one trying to survive on $400 a week.

I've been there too. I'm just saying don't get comfortable with it. Keep pushing to find something better.

Good to know. I was thinking about doing some delivery work to make ends meet.

You can definitely do that, just be honest about the income. They'll adjust your weekly benefit accordingly but you won't lose eligibility.

Thanks! I feel much more confident about navigating this now. You all have been amazing.