How long do I have to file unemployment claim in Washington?

Oh no, so I can't get benefits for the weeks I already missed? That's like $800 I won't get back.

Unfortunately no, Washington ESD doesn't do retroactive payments. The effective date is always the week you file your initial claim, not when you became unemployed.

I'm trying to file online but the system keeps timing out. Is there a better time to try?

Try early morning or late evening when traffic is lighter. The Washington ESD website gets slammed during business hours.

Did you have any trouble with the application process since you waited?

No trouble with the application itself, just the lost money. Washington ESD processed everything normally, they just couldn't pay me for the weeks before I filed.

Is that legit? I'm desperate to get this filed but don't want to get scammed.

Yeah it's real. They just help you get through the phone queue. I was skeptical too but it worked and I finally got to talk to someone at Washington ESD within 20 minutes.

I've heard good things about Claimyr from other people on here. Seems like a lot of folks have used it when the regular phone lines are jammed.

It's because of how the system tracks weekly claims. You have to file weekly certifications to prove you're still unemployed and looking for work, so they can't pay for weeks you didn't certify.

that makes no sense but whatever. government logic i guess

I wish someone had told me that when I got laid off. My manager just said 'good luck' and that was it.

Yeah unfortunately a lot of employers don't inform workers about unemployment benefits. It should be standard practice to provide that info during layoffs.

Wait what? There's a waiting week even if I file right away?

Yep, Washington has a one-week waiting period. It's just how the system works. First payable week is actually your second week of unemployment.

The waiting week is waived in some circumstances but not for regular layoffs. Just another reason to file ASAP.

That's somewhat reassuring. I was worried they might reject my claim entirely.

Nah they'll process it as long as you're within the one year window. Just don't expect any backdating.

Do I need my W-2 or just pay stubs?

Pay stubs are better since they're more recent. Washington ESD looks at your earnings from the last 4 quarters to determine your weekly benefit amount.

Because not everyone who gets laid off wants to file for unemployment. Some people have other income or find work right away.

i guess but seems like most people would want the money

How much does it cost? I'm already tight on money.

I'm not gonna quote prices but it was worth it for me considering how much time I saved. Check their site for current info.

Good advice. I'll make sure to document everything.

Yes! Always keep records with government systems. Print confirmation pages if you can.

Got it. I'm filing today no matter what. Thanks everyone for the reality check.

Good luck! And remember to file your weekly claims every week once you get approved. Missing those costs you money too.

How long does adjudication usually take?

Can be anywhere from 2-6 weeks depending on how quickly your employer responds. Sometimes longer if there are complications.

That's another reason to file ASAP. The adjudication clock doesn't start until you actually submit your claim.

What's WorkSourceWA? Is that separate from the unemployment claim?

It's Washington's job search system. Most UI claimants have to register and do job search activities through there. You'll get instructions after you file.

Seems like everyone's having phone issues with Washington ESD. Is the system just overwhelmed?

Pretty much. They're always backed up and understaffed. That's why services like Claimyr exist - the regular system is too hard to navigate.

Can you cancel a claim if you find work right away?

Yes, you just stop filing weekly claims. If you find work before your first payment, no harm done. But if it takes longer than expected, you're already in the system.

I agree the system could be more user-friendly. But once you understand the basics, it's not too bad. The key is just filing quickly and staying on top of your weekly claims.

yeah but people shouldn't have to become experts just to get help when they lose their job

Great job! Now make sure to file your weekly claims every week. Set a reminder on your phone if you need to.

Awesome! You'll probably get a determination letter in the mail within a week or two. Don't panic if your claim goes into adjudication - it's pretty normal.

Glad you got it filed! If you run into any issues down the road, remember that Claimyr option for getting through to Washington ESD phone support.

Exactly. The one year rule is misleading because it makes people think they have tons of time. In reality, every day you wait costs you money.

I'm going to start telling my laid-off employees that they have 1 week to file, not 1 year. Much more accurate in terms of not losing benefits.