How long do I have to file unemployment in Washington - missed the deadline?

You can still file! In Washington, you generally have up to one year from your separation date to file for unemployment benefits. However, you won't get benefits for the weeks before you actually file your claim - those weeks are lost. The sooner you file, the better. You should apply online at secure.esd.wa.gov as soon as possible.

File ASAP! I made the same mistake and waited 3 weeks thinking I'd find something quick. Lost out on like $1,200 in benefits I could have gotten.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I filed last year. Their phone lines are always busy and the website can be glitchy. If you run into issues, there's a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Really saved me when I was stuck in the system.

Just to clarify the timeline - you have up to 52 weeks (one year) from your last day of work to file an initial claim. But benefits are only paid for weeks after you file, not retroactively. Also, you'll need to have worked and earned wages in your base period to qualify. Make sure you have your employment history ready when you apply.

File online at secure.esd.wa.gov - it's way faster than calling. The system walks you through everything step by step. Just have your info ready and be patient if the site is slow.

Don't feel bad about waiting 6 weeks - a lot of people don't realize they should file immediately. The system doesn't exactly advertise itself well. At least you're filing now instead of waiting even longer.

One thing to keep in mind - after you file, you'll need to do weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. Don't miss those deadlines or you'll lose benefits for that week too. Set a reminder on your phone or something.

The whole unemployment system is confusing honestly. I filed right away when I got laid off but then had to wait 3 weeks for my first payment because of some adjudication thing. Just be prepared that it might take a while to see money even after you file.

I used Claimyr when my claim got stuck in adjudication hell. Took forever to get through to Washington ESD on my own but Claimyr got me connected to someone who could actually help. Worth checking out if you run into problems.

Make sure you're looking for work while you file. Washington has job search requirements and you need to keep a log of where you apply. WorkSource WA can help with job search assistance too.

Just file already! Every day you wait is money you're not getting. The application isn't that hard and you can always call if you need help with something.

The one year deadline is generous but those lost weeks really add up. I know someone who waited 2 months and lost out on like $4,000 in benefits. Don't let that be you!

Washington ESD is pretty good about processing claims once you get them filed. Just make sure all your info is accurate and complete. Any mistakes can delay your claim.

For anyone else reading this - file for unemployment THE DAY you lose your job or get laid off. Don't wait thinking you'll find something quickly. Even if you do find work fast, you'll have coverage for the gap.

At least you're filing now instead of never filing at all. Some people are too proud or don't think they qualify. Unemployment benefits are there for a reason - you paid into the system through your taxes.

Hope your claim gets processed quickly! The job market is tough right now so don't feel bad about needing unemployment benefits. That's what they're for.

Just wanted to follow up on Claimyr since a few people asked about it. They basically help you get through to Washington ESD when the lines are busy or you're stuck in the system. Really helpful when you're dealing with claim issues that need human help to resolve.

Update us when you hear back about your claim! It's always good to know how long the process is taking these days.

Don't forget to keep looking for work and document everything. Washington ESD does check up on job search requirements and you don't want to get in trouble for not following the rules.

Welcome to the unemployment club! It's not fun but at least there's help available while you look for your next job. Good luck with your claim and your job search.