How long can you wait to file unemployment claim with Washington ESD?

So I basically lost 6 weeks of potential benefits? That's like $2000+ down the drain...

Unfortunately yes, but don't beat yourself up about it. File today so you don't lose any more weeks.

Did you have any trouble with the application process after waiting? I'm worried they'll ask why I waited so long.

Nope, they don't really care when you file as long as you meet the other requirements. Just be honest about your separation date.

Never heard of that service before but might be worth checking out. Washington ESD phone lines are impossible to get through on.

I'll look into that, thanks. I'm definitely going to need to talk to someone about my situation.

Good point, I definitely don't want to mess up again. How often do you have to file the weekly claims?

Every week, usually Sunday through the following Saturday. You can file starting Sunday for the previous week.

And you have to do job searches too - 3 per week I think? Make sure you keep track of those.

I agree it's not intuitive but once you get the hang of it, it becomes routine.

still think they should pay retroactive tho if you lost your job weeks ago

You're right, I need to stop dwelling on it and just get it done. Filing today for sure.

That's the right attitude. I waited 2 months to file because I was embarrassed about being laid off. Wish I hadn't waited so long but you live and learn.

There might be some very limited exceptions for things like hospitalization but I'm not sure of the specifics. You'd have to ask Washington ESD directly.

That's another good reason to use something like Claimyr to actually reach an agent. They can tell you about any exceptions that might apply.

At least you're only 4 weeks behind instead of 6! We can both file today and stop procrastinating.

Deal! Let's do this. Better late than never I guess.

Definitely won't lie about dates. I have all my termination paperwork anyway so the dates are clear.

Good. Honesty is always the best policy with Washington ESD. They can verify employment dates anyway.

That would be nice but employers are supposed to give you information about filing for unemployment when they lay you off.

Mine didn't give me anything helpful, just said 'file for unemployment' with no details about timing.

Ouch, that's even worse than my situation. I guess a lot of people make this mistake.

Yeah it's more common than you'd think. Pride and optimism can be expensive!

True, the online system is much better even if it's not perfect. Can file your initial claim and weekly claims all online.

Yeah and you can check your claim status online too instead of having to call all the time.

You'll get benefits starting from the week you file, but there's usually a one-week waiting period for your first payment. So you file this week but might not see money for 2-3 weeks depending on processing.

Got it, thanks. Better to start the process now than keep waiting.

Regular unemployment benefits last up to 26 weeks in Washington. Extensions sometimes available during high unemployment periods but that's rare.

26 weeks should be plenty of time to find something. Hopefully I won't need all of it.

That's good to know. I'll definitely look into Claimyr if I run into issues with my application.

The agent I talked to was really helpful explaining the rules. Much better than trying to figure it out from the website alone.

Job search requirements start the first week you're eligible for benefits. Usually 3 job contacts per week but check your claim for the exact requirement.

Thanks, I'll make sure to start tracking my job searches right away.

Glad it helped you too! Sometimes you need to hear from people who made the same mistakes to learn from them.

Exactly! Better to learn from others' mistakes than make them yourself.

Perfect summary. I'm filing today and will recommend the same to anyone else in my situation.

Good for you! Hope your claim goes smoothly and you find work soon.

You're welcome! Good luck with your claim and job search.

Remember, if you run into any issues or need to talk to Washington ESD, that Claimyr service can help you get through to an agent. Much easier than trying to call on your own.

I'll keep that in mind. Hopefully the online filing process goes smoothly but good to know there's help available if needed.