How long after you're fired can you file for unemployment in Washington state?

Thanks! I'll get started on the application today then. Do I need any specific documents?

Have your Social Security number, employment history for the last 18 months, and reason for separation ready. The Washington ESD website walks you through everything.

That's reassuring. How long does that review process usually take?

Can vary but typically 2-4 weeks if there's no issues. Sometimes longer if they need to do an adjudication review.

Good to know it worked out for you. Did you have any problems with the process?

Only issue was getting through to someone at Washington ESD when I had questions. Phone lines are always busy. Actually ended up using this service called Claimyr that helped me get through - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Washington eliminated the waiting week in 2020. You can receive benefits starting from your first week of unemployment if you're eligible.

oh ok that makes sense, she filed in oregon i think

Ugh that sucks. Definitely filing today then. Thanks for the heads up.

This is so important - I see people make this mistake all the time. The clock starts ticking from your file date!

What do you mean by weekly claims? Is that different from the initial application?

Yes, after you file your initial claim you have to file weekly claims every week to certify you're still unemployed and looking for work. It's separate from the initial application.

Got it, thanks for clarifying that.

A month seems like a really long time. Was there a problem with your claim?

Nope, just the normal adjudication process. They have to verify everything with your employer and it takes forever. That's why filing immediately is so crucial.

How many jobs do I need to apply for per week?

It's 3 job search activities per week in Washington. Can be applications, networking, job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records of everything.

That's good to hear. I was worried they'd automatically deny anyone who got fired.

nah they look at the whole situation. if it wasn't willful misconduct you're usually fine

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - it's a lifesaver for actually reaching someone at Washington ESD. Check out claimyr.com if you need to talk to an agent.

Never heard of that but might be worth looking into. The regular phone system is absolutely useless.

Good thinking. I'll grab my last few pay stubs and write down all the details before I forget.

Smart move. Having everything documented upfront can save you headaches later if Washington ESD needs additional information.

Wow 6 months, that's rough. Hope things turn around for you soon.

Thanks, been a tough year but hanging in there. Just don't want others to make the same filing mistake I did.

Anyone can file, but eligibility depends on the reason for separation. Fired for misconduct = likely disqualified. Fired for performance or downsizing = likely eligible. Washington ESD makes the final determination.

Makes sense, thanks for clarifying that distinction.

6 weeks sounds horrible. Did you get backpay for those weeks?

Yes, once approved I got all the backpay from my effective date. So filing early was still worth it even with the delay.

Yeah I was kind of thinking I should wait until I had a better handle on my situation but sounds like that's wrong.

Totally wrong. The whole point of unemployment is to provide income while you're looking for work. File now, look for work later.

That's encouraging. Did they contact your employer to verify why you were fired?

Yes, they sent a form to my employer asking for details about my separation. Took about a week for them to respond.

I've been working for 3 years straight so I should be fine on that front. Good point though.

Yeah with 3 years you'll definitely meet the work requirements. Just wanted to mention it since some people assume everyone qualifies.

Alright, alright, I get it! Filing today for sure. You guys have convinced me.

Good! We just don't want you to make the same mistakes we did. The system is confusing enough without adding unnecessary delays.

Great advice, I'll definitely screenshot everything and print what I can.

Smart thinking. Better to have too much documentation than not enough when dealing with government systems.

Will do! Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice. Going to start the application right now.

And remember, if you need to reach Washington ESD and can't get through on the phone, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier really does work. Saved me hours of frustration.

I'll keep that in mind if I run into phone issues. Thanks again!