How long does it take for first unemployment check from Washington ESD?

Usually takes about 2-3 weeks after your claim is approved, but that's assuming there's no adjudication issues. You have to file your weekly claims during that time too or you won't get paid for those weeks.

Mine took forever because they had to verify my identity first. Ended up being almost 6 weeks before I saw any money. Make sure all your info matches exactly what's on your Social Security card.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to check your claim status, I found this service called Claimyr that actually got me connected to an agent. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting hung up on.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS BROKEN! I've been waiting 4 weeks and still nothing. They make it impossible to reach anyone and when you do get through they give you different answers every time. I'm about to lose my apartment!

For first-time filers, here's what usually happens: 1) You file initial claim 2) Wait for approval (1-2 weeks if no issues) 3) File weekly claims 4) First payment processes 5-7 business days after weekly claim. So total time is typically 3-4 weeks from initial filing to money in your account.

My experience was pretty typical - filed on a Monday, got approved the following Friday, filed my weekly claims that Sunday, and got paid the Thursday after that. So about 3 weeks total from filing to payment.

Make sure you're checking your account online regularly. Sometimes they need additional info and if you don't respond quickly it delays everything. I almost missed a request for wage verification because I wasn't checking.

honestly it's such a crapshoot... some people get paid right away others wait months. really depends on your situation and if they flag anything weird about your claim

If your claim goes into adjudication, that's when things can take forever. Mine was in adjudication for 6 weeks before I used Claimyr to finally talk to someone. Turns out it was just a simple clarification they needed about my separation from my employer.

The waiting is the worst part. I remember checking my bank account like 10 times a day waiting for that first payment. It did come eventually but the stress was unreal.

One thing to remember - your first payment might be less than expected because of the waiting week. Washington ESD doesn't pay for your first week of unemployment, so your first check covers week 2 and beyond.

Three weeks if you're lucky! I know people who waited 3 months because Washington ESD is completely overwhelmed and understaffed. The phone system is a joke.

For what it's worth, I also used Claimyr when I had questions about my weekly claims. The agent was able to explain some stuff that wasn't clear on the website. Made the whole process less stressful knowing I could actually talk to someone.

Also make sure your direct deposit info is correct. I had a friend whose payment got delayed because they had an old bank account on file. Check that stuff before you even file if possible.

the whole thing is just a waiting game unfortunately. keep filing your weekly claims and eventually the money will show up. try not to stress too much about it

Final tip - keep records of everything. Screenshot your weekly claims, save any emails or letters from Washington ESD, write down dates and times you called. If there are issues later, you'll want that documentation.

Hang in there OP. I know it's scary waiting for that first payment but most people do get their benefits eventually. The system is slow but it usually works out in the end.

My advice is to apply for everything you can while waiting - food assistance, utility help, rental assistance. Don't just sit there waiting for unemployment to come through.

Just wanted to say thanks for asking this question OP. I'm in the same boat and all these answers are really helpful. Nice to know I'm not alone in this stress!

One last thing - if you do end up needing to contact Washington ESD and can't get through, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier really does work. I was skeptical at first but it beat spending hours on hold. Just something to keep in mind if you run into roadblocks.