How long does it take for you to get unemployment benefits from Washington ESD?

Thanks, that's helpful. What do you mean by waiting week though? Do I not get paid for the first week?

Exactly, the first week you claim is your waiting week - you file the weekly claim but don't get paid for it. It's like a one-week deductible.

Good to know Boeing workers go through the same process. Did you have any issues with the job search requirements?

Yeah you need to do 3 job search activities per week and keep a log. They don't always check but you better have it if they ask.

Oh no, how did you finally get it resolved? I really can't afford a 6 week delay.

I ended up using this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. It was honestly the only way I could reach someone to get my adjudication resolved.

Never heard of that service but anything's better than trying to call Washington ESD directly. Their phone system is a nightmare.

Mine should be straightforward - clear layoff with one employer for 2 years. Hopefully that helps it go faster.

That sounds like it should process without issues. Just make sure all your employer info matches exactly what Washington ESD has on file.

Have you tried logging into your account to check if there are any issues flagged? Sometimes there's a problem they want you to resolve but they don't notify you clearly.

yeah i check every day, it just says 'claim under review' with no other info. so frustrating

That's exactly what mine said during adjudication. Seriously consider using Claimyr to get through to someone - it's worth it to find out what's actually holding up your claim.

That timeline makes sense. I'll plan for 4 weeks to be safe.

Good call, I did set up direct deposit. Hopefully that speeds things up.

Yeah direct deposit is definitely the way to go. Usually hits your account within 2-3 business days of them processing your weekly claim.

There could be seasonal factors too. End of year layoffs might be creating a backlog.

True, plus all the construction and outdoor work that shuts down in winter. Probably lots of claims right now.

When exactly can I file my weekly claims? Is there a specific day?

You can file starting Sunday for the previous week (Sunday through Saturday). You have until the following Saturday to file for that week. So if you want to claim for Jan 5-11, you can file starting Jan 12 and have until Jan 18.

Got it, I'll make sure to file every week regardless. Thanks for the warning.

Oh wow, employer disputes definitely complicate things. At least now you know what's going on instead of waiting in the dark.

That's scary that employers can dispute claims. Is that common?

It happens sometimes, especially if there's any question about whether the termination was for cause or if it was truly a layoff. The appeal process can take a while but if you were legitimately laid off you should win.

This whole process seems so unpredictable. Wish there was more transparency about what causes delays.

I double-checked everything when I filed but now I'm second-guessing myself. Is there a way to verify my info is correct?

You can log into your Washington ESD account and review your application. If you spot any errors you should contact them immediately to get it corrected.

Sorry you've had to go through it multiple times. Any tips for making the process smoother?

Just be super careful with your weekly claims - answer every question exactly the same way each week unless your situation actually changes. And keep records of everything.

Sorry you had such a long wait. Did you ever find out what caused the delay?

nope, they never explained it. just suddenly started getting payments one day

I've only worked in Washington so hopefully that won't be an issue for me.

That's reassuring to hear a recent success story. I'll definitely stay on top of the weekly filing.

Same here, got my first payment right at the 3 week mark. As long as your claim doesn't get flagged for review it should be pretty predictable.

Good to know - I'll be extra careful with the dates when I file weekly.

Yeah, they're very particular about the exact dates. And make sure you report any work or earnings accurately, even if it's just a few hours.

I'm hoping I won't need to contact them but good to know that option exists if my claim gets stuck.

Yeah, it's like insurance - you hope you don't need it but you're glad it's there if you do.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info. Feeling much more prepared for what to expect now.

Good luck with your claim! This community is pretty helpful if you run into any issues.