How get unemployment benefits in Washington - complete beginner here

First thing - don't wait! You should apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible after losing your job. Go to esd.wa.gov and click on 'Apply for Benefits'. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked.

The application process is pretty straightforward once you get started. After you apply online, you'll get a letter in the mail with your claim details and instructions for filing weekly claims. Make sure to file your weekly claim every week even if your initial claim is still being processed.

One thing that really helps is using Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD when you have questions. I discovered it when I was having trouble reaching anyone by phone. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Made my life so much easier when I needed to talk to someone about my claim status.

Make sure you understand the job search requirements too. You'll need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of your activities. You can do this through WorkSourceWA or keep your own records.

ugh the whole system is so confusing when you're already stressed about losing your job. I remember being totally overwhelmed when I first applied

Important: when you file your initial claim, you'll choose either to have taxes withheld from your benefits or not. I'd recommend having them withhold the taxes (10% federal) so you don't get hit with a big tax bill later.

Also be prepared for possible adjudication if there are any questions about why you lost your job. This is normal and just means they need to investigate before approving your claim. Don't panic if you see 'adjudication in progress' on your account.

One more thing - if you do run into problems or your claim gets stuck, definitely consider using Claimyr to reach Washington ESD by phone. The regular phone lines are absolutely brutal - I spent weeks trying to get through before finding that service.

Don't forget to set up your SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account if you don't already have one. You'll need this to access your unemployment account online and file your weekly claims.

Just want to say hang in there - I know it feels overwhelming but thousands of people go through this process successfully every week. Take it one step at a time.

Quick reminder about the waiting week - Washington doesn't have a waiting week anymore, so you can potentially get benefits for your first week of unemployment if you file right away and meet all the requirements.

Make sure you have a good phone number and email on file because Washington ESD will contact you if they need additional information. Check your messages regularly!

Another situation where Claimyr really helps is if you get messages from Washington ESD that you don't understand. Instead of trying to figure it out on your own or waiting weeks to get through on the phone, you can get quick clarification from an actual ESD representative.

Pro tip: keep detailed records of everything - when you applied, when you filed weekly claims, any correspondence from ESD, your job search activities. It'll save you headaches later if any issues come up.

The most important thing is to be honest and accurate on your application. Don't try to hide anything or guess at dates/wages. ESD will verify everything anyway and dishonesty can disqualify you completely.

Once you get your claim established, the weekly filing becomes routine. You'll answer the same questions each week about whether you worked, whether you're able and available for work, etc. Set a reminder so you don't forget to file each week.

Last thing - if you're union member, make sure to let your union know you've applied for unemployment. Sometimes they have additional resources or advice specific to your situation.

You've gotten great advice here! The key is just to start the process - don't overthink it. Apply online, file your weekly claims, do your job search, and ask for help when you need it. You'll figure it out as you go.