How long does a unemployment claim take to process with Washington ESD?

Yes I've been filing weekly like they told me to. Just nervous because I've never been on unemployment before and don't know what's normal.

That's good - keep filing those weekly claims even while your initial claim is pending. You can get paid retroactively once it's approved.

Thanks that makes me feel better. What job search activities do I need to be doing while waiting?

You need to do 3 job search activities per week and log them in WorkSourceWA. This includes applying for jobs, networking, job fairs, etc.

Four weeks is definitely longer than normal. Have you checked if your claim went into adjudication? That would explain the delay.

How do I check that? My account doesn't show anything about adjudication, just says pending.

If you can't get through to Washington ESD by phone, try using Claimyr - it's a service that helps you actually reach an agent. I used it last month when I couldn't get through on my own. Check out claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

I had two jobs in the last 18 months but both were regular W-2 positions. Should that cause delays?

Not necessarily, but they do have to verify with both employers which can add time. As long as everything checks out you should be fine.

That's not typical - calling shouldn't mess up your claim. What exactly happened when you called?

they asked me some questions about my last day of work and i guess i gave different info than what was on my application? now its in adjudication

That sounds like the dates didn't match between your application and what you told them. They have to investigate any discrepancies to prevent fraud.

This is really helpful, thank you! I fall into the first category so hopefully soon.

What counts as 'issues requiring adjudication'? I'm worried my claim might have issues.

Common adjudication triggers include: fired for misconduct, quit without good cause, discrepancies in employment dates, benefit fraud alerts, or disputes from former employers.

Exactly! I just want to know if everything is okay or if there's something I need to do.

Same here. I kept checking my account multiple times a day during the wait. Drove myself crazy lol

Someone else mentioned Claimyr too. Is it actually legitimate?

Yeah it's real - basically helps you navigate their phone system to reach an agent instead of sitting on hold forever. I was skeptical at first but it worked when I needed to talk to someone about my claim.

21 business days is about 3 weeks right? That makes me feel better about where I'm at.

Yep, 21 business days is about 4 calendar weeks. You're only at 2 weeks so still well within normal range.

We can stress together! Have you tried calling at all?

I tried a few times but couldn't get through. Might try that Claimyr thing people are mentioning if I don't hear something this week.

This is a good point. I'd rather wait a bit longer than deal with having to pay money back later.

True, I just wish they gave better updates on where things stand in the process.

That's good to know! I signed up for direct deposit so hopefully it'll be fast.

Direct deposit is definitely the way to go. Much faster than waiting for a debit card to arrive.

That's reassuring to hear from someone who sees this from the other side. Thanks!

Which states are slower? Just curious since I might be moving for work.

I'd rather not name specific states, but Washington is generally in the faster half of processing times nationwide.

Good tip! I've been checking my account daily and haven't seen any requests for additional info.

Sounds like you're on top of it then. Just keep filing those weekly claims and you should hear something soon.

Will do! Hopefully I'll have good news to share soon.