How long before I can collect unemployment benefits in Washington?

Thanks! So I can file today even though I just got laid off yesterday? I thought there might be some kind of delay requirement.

Yep, file today if possible. The waiting week is built into the system automatically - you don't need to create your own delay.

Got it, so I file weekly claims even during the waiting week? That makes sense I guess.

Wait, I thought you had to be unemployed for a full week before you could even apply? That's what my friend told me.

No, that's old information or maybe from another state. In Washington you can file the day after your last day of work.

2-3 weeks total? That's cutting it close for my rent situation. Is there any way to speed this up?

Unfortunately the waiting week is mandatory and processing times vary. Make sure you file accurately to avoid delays from adjudication issues.

If you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your timeline, I've had good luck using Claimyr to get through their phone lines. It's at claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Yeah I'm definitely filing today after reading all this. Just need to gather my employment info first.

Make sure you have your last employer's info handy - you'll need their address and your dates of employment.

For a new claim, they'll establish your benefit year when you file. Don't worry about that part - just focus on getting your initial application submitted.

Ok good, I was worried I was missing something important. This whole system is so confusing when you're new to it.

Great, another thing to worry about. Should I try filing at a specific time of day?

Early morning or late evening seem to work better - less traffic on the site.

I always file my weekly claims on Sunday mornings and rarely have issues with the site then.

Work search requirements start immediately when you file your claim, even during the waiting week. You need to be actively looking for work and keep records.

Thanks, good to know. Better start applying places right away then.

That sounds complicated. Is there a way to estimate what I might get before I file?

Washington ESD has a benefit calculator on their website that can give you a rough estimate if you know your quarterly earnings.

What kind of documentation did they ask for? I want to be prepared.

They wanted my pay stubs, separation notice from my employer, and then randomly asked for more info about a job I had 2 years ago. It was ridiculous.

That sounds like your claim went into adjudication. If you have a straightforward layoff situation it should be much smoother.

Good advice. I'll set a reminder on my phone for the same day each week.

Sunday is usually the best day since that's when the new week opens up for filing.

Is that like a calling service? How does it work?

Yeah, they handle the calling and waiting for you. Saved me hours of frustration trying to get through myself. Check out their demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ to see how it works.

Thanks everyone! This has been super helpful. I'm going to file this afternoon once I get all my employment info together.

Good luck! Remember to file your weekly claims consistently and keep looking for work. You've got this!

That's really thoughtful advice, thank you. I'll look into what's available in my area.

211 is a great resource for finding local assistance programs. Just dial 2-1-1 from any phone.

Thanks for the reassurance. It's definitely stressful but all the advice here has made me feel more prepared.

The first time is always the scariest because you don't know what to expect. You'll be fine!

Good point. In my case I was laid off yesterday so I'm clear to file today.

Perfect, then you're all set. File today and start that waiting week clock ticking!

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

For me it was worth it because I was spending hours trying to get through on my own. Saved me a lot of time and frustration when I needed answers about my claim.