How long after termination can I apply for unemployment - Washington ESD filing timeline?

Thanks! I was worried I had to wait. Should I file even if I don't have all my paperwork together yet?

Yes, file now and you can always provide additional documentation later if needed. The key dates and basic employment info are what matter most for the initial filing.

Good to know, filing today then. Did you have any issues with the online system?

the esd website was pretty straightforward, just have your last employer info ready and your social security number

What's the waiting week? Is that something separate?

It's the first week of your claim where you don't get paid - basically serves as a penalty period. But it only starts counting once you file and complete your first weekly claim.

Actually Washington eliminated the waiting week in 2023, so you can get benefits for your first week now if you qualify.

Never heard of that before - is it legit? How much does it cost?

Yeah it's real, found it through claimyr.com. They don't charge upfront, just help you get through to ESD when you need to talk to someone. Way better than spending hours trying to call yourself.

Interesting, might need this if I run into issues with my claim. The phone system really is horrible.

That's exactly what I was worried about. Glad I asked before waiting longer.

yeah learn from my mistake! also make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week or you'll miss out on those payments too

I was laid off due to budget cuts, not fired for cause, so I should be okay there.

Perfect, layoffs due to lack of work typically qualify without issues. Just be honest about the circumstances when filling out your application.

Even if there are eligibility questions, filing early means the adjudication process starts sooner and you'll get your answer faster.

Good thinking, I'll try that tonight then.

this is smart advice - I tried filing during regular business hours and the site was super slow

Should I contact my former employer first or just use the info from my termination paperwork?

The termination paperwork should have everything you need. No need to contact them unless something seems wrong on the forms.

What counts as a work search activity? Job applications?

job applications, networking events, career workshops, interviews obviously. theres a whole list on the esd website of what qualifies

You can also register with WorkSource for additional qualifying activities and job search resources.

That settles it, definitely filing today. Thanks for all the advice everyone!

Good luck! The process is pretty straightforward once you get started. Don't hesitate to ask if you run into any issues.

Already scanning everything to keep digital copies. Learned that lesson from other bureaucratic processes!

Smart move. Also screenshot your claim confirmation page when you file - gives you a reference number if you need to call later.

The online part is definitely easier, but getting through on the phone is still terrible if you need help. That's why services like Claimyr are so useful.

true, the phone system needs work but at least the basic filing process is smooth now

Severance might delay when your benefits start, but it won't affect your ability to file. ESD will ask about any severance payments when you file your weekly claims.

Good to know, so I should still file now even with the severance coming?

Yes, absolutely file now. The severance issue gets handled when you file your weekly claims, not when you initially apply.

This thread has been super helpful. Filing my claim tonight for sure.

Glad we could help! Come back and update us on how it goes.

I tried the secure messaging but never got a response. Phone call through Claimyr was much more effective for getting my questions answered quickly.

Fair point, response times on secure messaging can be inconsistent depending on how busy they are.

You can file up to one year after becoming unemployed, but you lose all the potential benefits from the time you could have filed. So someone waiting 3 months loses 3 months of potential payments.

Wow, that's a huge financial hit for waiting. Definitely reinforces the file immediately advice.

Yes, file the next business day if possible. Company closures are typically straightforward for unemployment eligibility.

Perfect, thanks. At least the unemployment process won't be as stressful as I thought.

Good point, I just moved last month so I need to make sure I use my current address.

yeah and set up notifications if you can so you dont miss important messages from esd

Update: just filed my claim online and it only took about 15 minutes. Much easier than I expected. Thanks again everyone!

Excellent! Remember to file your first weekly claim this Sunday and keep up with the work search requirements. You've got this!

Congrats on getting it filed! If you need to talk to ESD about anything, definitely check out Claimyr instead of trying to call directly. Saved me so much frustration.