How long do I have to file for unemployment with Washington ESD after losing my job?

You should file as soon as possible! While there isn't technically a hard deadline that prevents you from filing, your weekly benefit amount is calculated based on when you file your initial claim. The longer you wait, the more potential benefits you're missing out on. Washington ESD doesn't pay retroactively for weeks before you file.

There's actually a one year deadline from when you stop working to file your initial claim with Washington ESD. BUT - this doesn't mean you should wait. Like the previous person said, you can only get paid for weeks after you file. I made this mistake and waited 3 weeks thinking I needed to 'prepare' all my paperwork first.

File TODAY if you can. The Washington ESD system can be really slow to process claims, especially if there are any issues that need adjudication. I've been trying to get through to them for weeks about my claim status. The phone lines are constantly busy and when you do get through, you often get disconnected. If you're having trouble reaching them, I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me through to a real person at Washington ESD. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Don't panic about the 10 days, but definitely file asap. The bigger issue is that Washington ESD has been really backed up lately with adjudications and claim processing. Even if you file today, it might take several weeks before you see your first payment.

I waited almost a month to file because I was embarrassed about being unemployed and kept thinking I'd find something quick. HUGE mistake. Not only did I miss out on those weeks of benefits, but then my claim got stuck in adjudication for another month because they had questions about why I waited so long to file.

The one year deadline is correct, but there are some exceptions. If you had a medical condition or other circumstances that prevented you from filing, Washington ESD might allow you to backdate your claim. But you'd need documentation to prove it.

ugh the washington esd system is such a nightmare... i filed right away when i got laid off but my claim has been pending for 6 weeks now with no explanation. calling them is basically impossible

Just to clarify the timeline - in Washington state, your benefit year runs for 52 weeks from when you file your initial claim. You have up to one year from your last day of work to file that initial claim. But again, you only get paid for weeks after you file, not before.

I'm a former Washington ESD employee and I can confirm everything said here. The one year deadline exists but hardly anyone hits it. The real issue is missing out on weekly benefits by delaying your initial application. We always advised people to file within the first week of unemployment.

File immediately! I learned this the hard way. Also, once you file, make sure you understand the weekly claim process. You have to file a weekly claim every week to get paid, even if you haven't received your first payment yet.

The system is SO backed up right now it's not even funny. I filed immediately when I got laid off 8 weeks ago and I'm still waiting for my first payment. Been trying to call Washington ESD every day but either can't get through or get disconnected after waiting on hold for hours.

ok but seriously why is washington esd so terrible at answering phones?? like this is people's livelihood we're talking about and they just ignore calls all day

To directly answer your question - you have up to one year to file, but you should file within days of losing your job. Every day you wait is money you can't get back. The 10 days you've already waited isn't catastrophic, but don't wait any longer.

Just wanted to add - if you're having trouble with the online application, you can call but be prepared for long wait times. The online system at secure.esd.wa.gov is usually the fastest way to file your initial claim.

One more thing - make sure you're ready to start your job search requirements immediately after filing. Washington ESD requires you to make job contacts every week and keep a log. Don't wait until after you get your first payment to start looking for work.