How long after termination can you file for unemployment with Washington ESD?

Thanks! I didn't realize it worked that way. I'll get on it today then.

yeah i waited like 2 weeks after getting fired and lost out on those payments completely

Ugh that's what I was afraid of. Going to file right now.

Wait so if I got terminated 3 weeks ago but just found out about UI benefits, I lose those 3 weeks completely?

Unfortunately yes, Washington ESD can't backdate benefits to before your claim filing date except in very rare circumstances.

Is there any situation where they'll backdate it? Like if you were in the hospital or something?

Very limited circumstances like military deployment or serious medical emergencies, but you'd need documentation and it's not guaranteed.

Never heard of that service. Did it actually work for you?

Yeah, got through to an agent within like 20 minutes instead of spending all day redialing. Worth it when you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD.

Interesting, I'll have to check that out. The phone system is absolutely terrible.

Good point, I'll do it online. Do I need pay stubs or just the employer info?

just employer names addresses and dates worked. they'll verify wages with employers directly

Don't stress too much about the lost weeks - just file now and focus on getting your weekly claims in on time going forward.

I know it sucks but you can't change the past weeks. File today and at least you'll get benefits moving forward.

You're right, I need to just do it instead of worrying about what I can't change.

While I understand the frustration, it's really just about preventing fraud and ensuring benefits go to eligible claimants. The timing rules are pretty standard across states.

Standard doesn't mean fair. Other states allow backdating in more situations.

You can file regardless of separation reason. Washington ESD will determine eligibility during adjudication. Even if you quit, you might qualify if it was for good cause.

That's good to know. I'll file and let them decide rather than assuming I don't qualify.

Wow 6 months? That's a lot of money left on the table.

Tell me about it. Probably lost around $8000 in benefits. Nobody told me unemployed people could get help.

That's exactly what I don't want to happen. Filing today for sure.

How often do the weekly claims need to be filed? Every Sunday?

Weekly claims are due by 11:59 PM on Saturday night for the previous week. You can file starting Sunday morning.

Did you have any issues with adjudication either time?

Second time went through adjudication for about 3 weeks but no issues since the layoff was clearly employer-initiated due to budget cuts.

How much does something like that cost? Is it worth it?

I thought it was worth it given how much time I was wasting trying to get through on my own. Check out their demo video to see if it makes sense for your situation.

What specific info do I need? I have my last pay stub but not sure what else.

Employer names, addresses, phone numbers, dates of employment, and reason for separation for all jobs in the last 18 months. Also your Social Security card and ID.

Don't forget to have your bank account info ready if you want direct deposit instead of the debit card option.

Agreed, the online system works well. It's only when you need to talk to someone that it becomes a nightmare.

Really? I have 2 weeks of vacation pay coming. That won't affect my claim?

It might affect your weekly benefit amount for those weeks but won't prevent you from filing the initial claim. Better to file and report the vacation pay than wait.

Exactly right. Vacation pay gets reported on your weekly claims but doesn't prevent you from establishing your claim immediately.

Alright everyone convinced me. Logging on to file right now. Thanks for all the advice!

Good luck! The hardest part is just getting started.

How many jobs do I need to apply to each week?

Three job search activities per week minimum. Can be applications, networking, interviews, job fairs, etc. Keep good records.

At least you're doing it now! Don't beat yourself up about the timing.

yeah just filed online took like 20 minutes. wish id done it weeks ago

Glad my question helped others too. Just finished filing my claim - wasn't as complicated as I thought it would be.

That's great! Now just stay on top of your weekly claims and job search requirements.

I'm definitely going to try that if I run into issues. The regular phone number is impossible.

Same here. Anything has to be better than spending 4 hours on hold just to get disconnected.