How does unemployment work in Washington - completely lost and need basic explanation

Hey, I totally get feeling overwhelmed - the unemployment system seems confusing at first but it's actually pretty straightforward once you understand the basics. Here's how it works in Washington: You file an initial claim with Washington ESD (Employment Security Department), then you have to file weekly claims every week to keep getting paid. The amount you get depends on your earnings from the past year, usually around 60% of your average weekly wage up to a maximum. You don't have to pay it back unless you get overpaid by mistake.

You also need to actively look for work and keep a log of your job search activities. Washington requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and register with WorkSource (their job search website). This includes applying to jobs, networking, going to interviews, etc. You have to be able and available to work each week you claim benefits.

One thing that really helped me when I was navigating this was using Claimyr to actually get through to someone at Washington ESD when I had questions. The phone lines are always busy and it's nearly impossible to reach an agent normally, but Claimyr (claimyr.com) calls for you and gets you connected. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Made a huge difference when I was confused about my claim status.

ugh the whole system is so confusing and they make it way harder than it needs to be!! i've been on unemployment twice and both times it took forever to get approved and they kept asking for more paperwork

To give you the step-by-step process: 1) File your initial claim online at esd.wa.gov (you'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and work history for the past 18 months), 2) Wait for them to review and approve your claim (can take 1-3 weeks), 3) Once approved, file your first weekly claim, 4) Continue filing weekly claims every week, 5) Make your required job search contacts and keep records, 6) Report any work or income when you file your weekly claims.

Important thing to know - if your claim goes into 'adjudication' that means they're reviewing something about your eligibility. This can happen if you were fired, quit, or there's a question about your work history. Don't panic if this happens, but it will delay your payments until they make a decision.

Does anyone know what happens if you get a part-time job while on unemployment? I might have a chance to pick up some shifts but don't want to mess up my benefits.

just wanted to say good luck with everything! being unemployed is stressful but the benefits definitely help while you're looking for something new

One more thing - if you ever need to actually speak to someone at Washington ESD and can't get through on the phone (which happens a lot), definitely consider Claimyr. I was stuck in adjudication for weeks and couldn't get answers, but they got me connected to an agent who resolved my issue in one phone call.

also make sure you keep EVERYTHING documented - every job application, every phone call, every email. if they audit you later you'll need proof of everything

The WorkSource registration is mandatory too, don't skip that step. You have to create a profile and upload your resume within a certain timeframe after filing your claim.

Quick question - do you have to pay taxes on unemployment benefits? I remember hearing something about that but wasn't sure.

My advice is to file your claim as soon as possible because there's a waiting week before you can start receiving benefits. The sooner you file, the sooner that waiting week starts.

been on unemployment 3 times over the years and honestly once you get the hang of it it's pretty routine. file your weekly claim every sunday, do your job searches during the week, keep good records. the hardest part is just getting started

One last tip - set up direct deposit if you can. Paper checks take longer and can get lost in the mail. Direct deposit usually processes within 1-2 business days after you file your weekly claim.

The Washington ESD website has pretty good FAQs and guides too if you want to read more details about any of this stuff. Sometimes it's easier to understand when you can read through it at your own pace.

remember that if you get denied for any reason you can appeal the decision. don't just give up if something goes wrong with your claim

I used Claimyr when I couldn't figure out why my weekly claims weren't processing. Turned out there was an issue with my WorkSource registration that was blocking everything. The ESD agent they connected me with fixed it in 10 minutes.

overall the system works pretty well once you understand it. yes there's paperwork and requirements but it's designed to help people get back on their feet. just take it one step at a time and don't get overwhelmed by trying to understand everything at once

You got this! The first few weeks are the hardest but then it becomes routine. Focus on getting your initial claim filed and approved first, then worry about the weekly stuff once that's sorted out.