How long does Washington ESD unemployment take to process and start paying?

What kind of complications would cause delays? I tried to be as accurate as possible when filling everything out.

Common issues include employment verification problems, questions about why you left your job, or if there's a discrepancy in your work history. The adjudication process is when they investigate these issues.

I had the same problem trying to reach them by phone. I actually found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. It was way easier than trying to call myself.

never heard of that but ill try anything at this point. thanks

What do you mean by 'clean'? I'm worried my claim might have issues because I had two part-time jobs.

Having multiple employers can sometimes trigger additional verification, but it's not necessarily a problem. Just make sure you reported all your wages accurately when you filed.

So we're looking at about a month total from filing to getting money? That seems like forever when you're broke.

unfortunately thats about right. the system is just slow. i filed in december and didnt get my first payment until january

Wait, what are the job search requirements? Nobody told me about that when I filed.

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log. This includes applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking activities, etc. It's all explained in your handbook.

And you have to register with WorkSourceWA too. That's required before you can get your first payment.

What was the adjudication issue about? I'm paranoid mine will get flagged for something.

They questioned whether I was actually laid off or if I quit. Had to provide documentation from my employer. Took forever to resolve.

That's a pretty cynical view, but I can understand the frustration. The system is definitely overwhelmed.

CYNICAL? Try being unemployed for 2 months waiting for them to process your claim while your savings disappear. The system is broken.

How do you file weekly claims if your main claim isn't approved yet? That seems backwards.

You can still file them - the system will hold them until your main claim is processed. It's better to have them in the queue ready to go.

How much does that cost? I'm already strapped for cash.

It's worth it for the peace of mind. Being able to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD about your specific situation is huge when you're waiting for benefits.

That's actually helpful to know a specific timeline. Did you have any complications or was it straightforward?

Straightforward layoff from a tech company. No adjudication issues, just normal processing time.

Wait, what? So even when everything goes smoothly, you don't get paid for one week?

yep. the first week is a waiting week. you file the claim but dont get paid for it. only subsequent weeks get paid

Good advice. I'm trying to be super organized about everything but it's overwhelming with all the different requirements.

It is overwhelming at first but you'll get into a routine. The weekly claims become second nature after a few weeks.

Have you tried using Claimyr to get through to someone? I've seen several people mention it in this thread and it might be your best bet for getting answers.

I'll look into it. At this point I'm willing to try anything to get some information about what's happening with my claim.

That's reassuring to hear. Right now it feels like this process will never end.

Hang in there. I know it's stressful but most claims do get processed eventually. The waiting is the hardest part.