How long can you wait before filing for unemployment with Washington ESD?

That's a relief! So I can still file now even though it's been 6 weeks?

Yes absolutely. File as soon as possible though - every week you wait is a week of benefits you can't get back.

One year seems like a really long time though. Why would anyone wait that long?

You'd be surprised. Some people don't know they qualify, or they find temporary work that doesn't work out, or they're dealing with other life stuff.

How does that work exactly? I've been dreading trying to call them.

Basically they handle the calling part for you and get you connected to a real person at ESD. Way less stressful than sitting on hold all day.

Interesting, never heard of that before. Did it actually work for you?

Wait, I can file for back weeks even if I get a job soon?

You can file for the weeks you were unemployed, but only going back to when you actually filed your initial claim. That's why everyone's telling you to file NOW.

Good point, I should gather all that before I start the application.

Also your Social Security card and ID. Don't start the application without having everything ready or you might have to start over.

Wow, that's a lot of money to lose. I definitely don't want to make that same mistake.

Same thing happened to my brother. Pride costs money sometimes.

I have been looking, just not keeping detailed records. Should I start doing that now?

Yes, start keeping a log of where you apply, when, what type of job, etc. You'll need to report this information with your weekly claims.

The job search requirements are pretty specific too. Check the Washington ESD website for the exact requirements in your area.

Is the online system pretty straightforward to use?

Yeah, it walks you through step by step. Just make sure you have a good internet connection and plenty of time to complete it without rushing.

I was definitely laid off due to company downsizing. They gave me a letter explaining the layoff.

Perfect, that letter will be helpful to have when you file. Keep it with your records.

I agree it can be overwhelming, but once you get through the initial filing it gets easier. The weekly claims are pretty straightforward.

At least Washington's system is better than some other states I've heard about.

Thanks, that makes me feel better about waiting this long.

Just remember you still need to do your weekly claims even while you're job searching. Don't miss those deadlines.

Is that something I do at the same time as filing for unemployment?

I think you can register separately, but they'll probably tell you about it when you file your claim. Check worksourcewa.com

How much does something like that cost though?

I don't want to get into specific costs here, but for me it was worth it to avoid the stress of calling over and over. Check their website for details.

You're absolutely right. I'm going to file today.

Good luck! The hardest part is just getting started.

Yeah, I wasn't sure about that either initially. Glad to know layoffs definitely count.

Layoffs, reductions in force, plant closures - all of those typically qualify for unemployment benefits.

Good to know! I was hoping it would be faster but I guess that's pretty normal.

Yeah the first payment usually takes longer because they have to process everything and verify your eligibility.

That sounds like a nightmare. Definitely filing today for sure.

Yeah that one year rule is real. After 12 months those wages basically don't count anymore for benefit calculations.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more confident about filing now.

And remember, if you need help getting through to ESD later on, that Claimyr option is there. Sometimes having that backup really helps with peace of mind.

I'll definitely keep that in mind. Thanks again everyone!