How long do I have to file unemployment claim with Washington ESD?

That's a relief! What counts as 'good cause' for the delay? I was just being lazy honestly.

Being lazy probably won't cut it lol. Good cause is usually things like medical issues, lack of internet access, language barriers, stuff like that. But 2 weeks isn't a big deal at all.

What's adjudication? That sounds scary.

It's just when Washington ESD needs to investigate something about your claim - like if your employer contests it or there's a question about why you were separated. Most claims don't go through it.

Did you have any trouble reaching them when you had questions? I keep hearing the phones are impossible.

Yeah the phone situation is brutal. I actually found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling.

Oh no that's exactly what I was worried about! What did you tell them about the delay?

I was honest and said I thought I'd find work quickly. They said that wasn't good cause and I should have filed immediately while looking for work.

That's rough but 6 weeks is pretty different from 2 weeks. OP should be fine.

It was definitely a layoff due to slow business. They laid off 4 of us at the same time.

Perfect, that should be straightforward then. Make sure you have your employer's info handy when you file - business name, address, your supervisor's name, dates of employment, etc.

You're right, I'm overthinking this. Going to file tonight.

Good to know! How often do I have to file the weekly claims?

Every week on your designated day. Washington ESD will tell you what day when your claim is processed. Usually Sunday through Saturday but depends on your SSN.

And you have to do job search activities every week too - minimum 3 job search contacts. Keep a log!

That doesn't sound too bad. Do I need my pay stubs or anything like that?

Not for the initial filing, but keep them handy. Sometimes Washington ESD will ask for wage verification later, especially if there are questions about your base period wages.

File anyway! Even if you were fired, you might still qualify depending on the circumstances. Worst case they deny you and you can appeal.

Yeah don't assume you're disqualified. Washington ESD looks at whether it was misconduct vs just not being a good fit or performance issues.

Thanks, that makes me feel better. I'll file this week.

How much does it cost? I've been trying to reach them for weeks about my adjudication.

I'd rather not post pricing publicly but it was reasonable for the time it saved me. Check their website for current rates.

Calm down lol but yeah you're right. I made the same mistake thinking I'd find something in a few days.

Message received loud and clear! Filing tonight for sure.

Ugh that's frustrating. What was the adjudication about?

Something about my employer not responding to their separation notice. Took forever to resolve even though it was clearly their fault not mine.

That's reassuring, thank you! I feel much better about this now.

Good point. So if my last day of work was a Friday, I'd put Saturday as when I became unemployed?

Exactly! And if you got any final pay like vacation payout, make sure to report that too.

Perfect summary, thank you so much everyone! This thread has been incredibly helpful. Filing right now.

Good luck! Come back and update us on how it goes.