How long does it take to get approved for unemployment with Washington ESD?

What do you mean by complications? I was laid off due to downsizing, nothing unusual about it.

That sounds straightforward then. Complications would be like getting fired for misconduct or quitting voluntarily - those take longer to review.

Thanks, that makes me feel a bit better. I was starting to panic that maybe I did something wrong on the application.

Mine took exactly 18 days last year and that was considered normal timing.

Thanks for the info! What exactly triggers adjudication? I'm worried I might have something that causes delays.

Common triggers include voluntary quit situations, misconduct allegations, or if Washington ESD needs to verify your employment history. Since you mentioned layoffs, that shouldn't be an issue for you.

Good to know, thanks! I've been doing the weekly claims but wasn't sure if I should continue.

Yeah definitely keep doing them weekly. I stopped for two weeks thinking I should wait for approval and it messed up my payments later.

Thanks for the info. What kind of issues typically cause delays? I don't think there's anything unusual about my situation.

Common things that can slow down approval include discrepancies in employment dates, questions about why you left your job, or if you had multiple employers. Sometimes they need to verify information with your former employer.

I was laid off due to company downsizing so hopefully that helps speed things up.

yeah that should definitely help, layoffs are usually pretty straightforward for them to process

Never heard of this before but I might try it if I don't hear back soon. Getting through on the phone has been impossible.

Is this legit? Seems too good to be true that there's a service that can actually get you through to Washington ESD.

Did you have to do anything special or just wait it out?

just waited, kept checking my account every day though lol

Interesting, I've been trying to call Washington ESD but can never get through. How does this service work exactly?

Basically they handle the calling process for you so you don't have to sit on hold for hours or keep getting busy signals. Really saved me a lot of frustration.

Is this legitimate? I'm always skeptical of third-party services for government stuff.

I understand your frustration, but 7 weeks suggests there's likely a specific issue that needs resolution. Have you tried requesting a hearing or filing an appeal if you received any disqualification notices?

No notices, just radio silence. How am I supposed to appeal something they won't even tell me about?

This is exactly the kind of situation where Claimyr helped me. I was stuck in limbo for weeks until I could actually talk to someone who explained what was holding up my claim.

Thanks, that's reassuring. Did you have to do anything special or did it just automatically get approved?

nah just waited it out, they eventually approved it without me doing anything extra

How do I know if my claim is in adjudication? My status just says 'under review' - is that the same thing?

Not necessarily. Adjudication usually shows as a specific status. Under review could just mean they're processing your initial application. Check your correspondence inbox for any requests for additional information.

This is so confusing! Why can't they just give us clear timelines instead of vague status updates?

What does adjudication mean exactly? I keep seeing that word but I'm not sure what it involves.

Adjudication is when Washington ESD needs to investigate something about your claim - like if there's a question about why you left your job or if you're able to work. It adds extra time to the process but it's not necessarily bad news.

ugh my claim went into adjudication and took SIX WEEKS to resolve, it was a nightmare

Thanks! I have been doing the weekly claims. Should I be worried that it's been 10 days already?

Not yet - 10 days is still within normal range. If you hit the 3 week mark with no communication, then I'd start making some calls.

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They have this video demo that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent picks up. Saved me hours of frustration.

Try calling right at 8am when they open, that's the only time I've ever gotten through

That sounds too good to be true. How much does something like that cost?

It's worth checking out their site for details, but honestly after spending my entire day trying to get through, it was a relief to have someone else handle the phone maze.

I've heard of services like this but never tried one. Did they actually get you connected to someone who could help?

Yes, they got me through to an adjudicator who was able to explain exactly what was holding up my claim. Turned out my former employer hadn't responded to their inquiry.

Wait, I'm supposed to file weekly claims before I'm even approved? I thought I had to wait for the approval first.

No, you need to file weekly claims starting with the week you filed your initial claim. If you don't file them, you could lose benefits for those weeks even after you're approved.

I made this mistake and lost 3 weeks of benefits because nobody told me I had to keep filing weekly claims!

Wait, I have to file weekly claims before I'm even approved? Nobody told me that!

Yes! This is super important - you need to file weekly claims for every week you want to be paid, even during the waiting period. If you don't file them, you can't get back pay for those weeks.

This happened to my brother - he waited to file weekly claims until after approval and lost out on 3 weeks of benefits.

Did they tell you it was going to take that long or did you just have to wait and wonder?

they never told me anything, i just had to keep checking the website. finally got a letter in the mail explaining the delay

I've tried calling multiple times but always get the busy signal or get disconnected. How does that Claimyr thing work exactly?

It basically handles the calling process for you and gets you connected to an actual Washington ESD representative. Saved me hours of trying to get through myself.

Never heard of that service before but anything that helps get through to Washington ESD sounds worth trying honestly

Exactly! That's the worst part - the uncertainty. At least we're not alone in this.

The waiting is brutal. I remember when I filed mine I was checking my account like 5 times a day.

That's encouraging! I tried to be really thorough with all my employment details so hopefully that helps.

10 days is super fast! What industry were you in? Wondering if that makes a difference.

I feel you on this. The whole system seems like it's from 1995.

While I understand the frustration, Washington ESD has made significant improvements to their systems in recent years. The processing times are much more reasonable now compared to the pandemic era.

I understand the stress, but Washington ESD has to verify information with employers and check databases. It's frustrating but they're trying to prevent fraud while processing legitimate claims.

I get that but rent doesn't wait for their verification process. Some of us are really struggling here.

That makes sense. Better they be thorough than have issues later I guess.

Still frustrating when you need the money though!

I know I need to be patient but it's hard when you're worried about paying bills

I totally get that anxiety, been there myself

How does that work exactly? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days and can never get through.

From what I understand, they handle the calling process for you and get you connected to an actual ESD representative. Saved me hours of trying to get through on my own.

Interesting, I hadn't heard of that before. The phone system at ESD is definitely frustrating to deal with.

I think I filled everything out correctly but now you're making me second-guess myself. Is there a way to check what I submitted?

You should be able to view your application details in your SecureAccess Washington account. Look for the claim summary section.

I've checked multiple times and don't see any pending issues. Just says 'under review' with no other details.

That's probably a good sign then - means they're just processing it normally without any red flags.

Good point about the job search tracking. I wasn't sure when that requirement kicks in.

Job search requirements typically start after your first week of benefits, but it's smart to start tracking immediately. You need to document at least 3 job search activities per week once it kicks in.

What's adjudication? Should I be worried about that?

Adjudication is when they need to investigate something about your claim - like if there's a question about your eligibility or your separation from work. It adds extra time to the process.

Adjudication can add anywhere from 2-6 weeks to your processing time, depending on how complex the issue is and how quickly they can get information from your employer.

Job search requirements? How many jobs do I need to apply for?

It's usually 3 job search activities per week, but check the specific requirements when your claim is approved. Activities can include applications, networking, attending job fairs, etc.

Make sure you keep detailed records of all your job search activities. Washington ESD can audit your search log at any time.

Thanks for the reassurance. I'm trying to stay patient but it's hard when bills are piling up.

Oh good, I was wondering about that! So they do backdate to the original filing date?

Yes, as long as you're approved, your benefit weeks start from when you first filed your claim, not when you got approved.

Yeah, I used it about a month ago when I was stuck in adjudication. Worked exactly like they show in the video demo. Got through to someone at Washington ESD within an hour instead of spending all day redialing.

I was skeptical too but tried it last week. Actually got connected to an agent who explained my claim was held up because of a wage discrepancy. Wouldn't have known that otherwise.

Yes I've been filing my weekly claims! At least that part seems to be working smoothly.

That's exactly right - always keep filing those weekly claims even during the waiting period.

Wait, you can file weekly claims before getting approved? I didn't know that

That's actually reassuring to hear you got approved after 3 weeks. Did you get backpay for all the weeks you were waiting?

Yes, they paid me for all the weeks I had filed claims during the waiting period. So definitely keep filing even while pending.

That gives me hope! I'm at day 14 now so maybe I'll hear something soon.

yeah you should be getting close, they usually send an email when there's an update

I've tried calling several times but I either get a busy signal or get disconnected after being on hold for over an hour.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr - saved me from all that phone frustration and actually got me answers about my claim status.

That's frustrating that it's so inconsistent. I wish they would at least give updates on where you are in the process.

The inconsistency is what makes it so stressful. You just have to wait and hope for the best.

I didn't think about the separation notice. My HR department said they would send it to Washington ESD but maybe I should get a copy too.

Always good to have your own copy. Employers sometimes delay sending separation notices which can hold up your claim.

I tried calling for weeks with no luck. That's actually how I ended up using Claimyr - I was desperate to talk to someone about my claim status.

Did Claimyr actually work for you? I'm skeptical about paying for something I should be able to do myself.

I was skeptical too, but after wasting so much time on hold, it was worth it. They got me through to an agent the same day I tried their service.

That's reassuring about the back pay. I was worried I'd lose money if approval takes too long.

As long as you file your weekly claims, you should get paid for all eligible weeks once approved. Just don't skip filing them!

Easy for you to say when you're not the one waiting! Some of us can't afford to be patient.

I totally understand - I was in the same position. Just saying that constantly checking won't make it go faster and will drive you crazy.

Where do I check correspondence? Is that in my eServices account?

Yes, log into your Washington ESD account and look for the correspondence or messages section. They'll post any requests for information there.

This is good advice. I missed an important message from them and it delayed my claim by 2 weeks.

What kind of identity verification do they do? I provided my social security number and driver's license when I applied.

Sometimes they need additional verification if there are discrepancies in your wage records or if you've worked in multiple states recently.

No, this was a permanent layoff unfortunately. My whole department got eliminated due to budget cuts.

Ah okay, then you're probably just in the normal processing queue. Budget cuts usually make for pretty straightforward unemployment claims.

My former employer was pretty understanding about the layoffs so I don't think they'll contest it. Hopefully that helps.

That should definitely work in your favor. Contested claims can add several weeks to the process.

I was laid off due to store closure so hopefully that helps speed things up

yeah that should be pretty cut and dry then, just a matter of waiting for them to process everything

16 days isn't too bad actually. Did you get approved?

Yes I got approved! The relief when that letter finally came was incredible.

Every state has different processing procedures and staffing levels. Washington ESD handles a large volume of claims.

still doesnt excuse the long wait times when people need money for rent and food

I get the frustration but at least Washington has pretty good benefit amounts compared to some states

Good to know! I was actually thinking about refiling because I wasn't sure if my application went through properly.

Definitely don't do that. If you got a confirmation number when you filed, your application went through. Just be patient.

While I agree the system could be more efficient, Washington ESD has made significant improvements since the pandemic. Processing times are much better than they were in 2020-2021.

Better than terrible is still not good enough when people are struggling to pay bills.

Good point, I'll double check that. I don't think I've gotten any messages but I should make sure.

Yeah I almost missed an important document request that way

I appreciate the encouragement! The uncertainty is definitely the hardest part.

Same here - I was checking my account multiple times a day. Try to distract yourself with job searching or other activities.

This seems to be the most important advice I'm getting. I'll make sure to file this week even though I'm still waiting.

Exactly! The weekly filing deadline is strict - you can't go back and claim weeks you missed filing for.

Good point, I'll make sure to check that daily. What kind of additional info did they ask you for?

They wanted verification of my wages from my last employer and proof of my job search activities. Nothing too complicated but I almost missed the deadline.

It really is stressful! Hopefully we both hear something soon.

Hang in there both of you. The waiting period is normal even though it doesn't feel like it when you're going through it.

So even after approval there's more waiting? This process seems to take forever.

Unfortunately yes, but once you're in the system the weekly payments come pretty regularly. It's just that initial setup that takes time.

That's really helpful context, thank you. I guess I was just expecting it to be faster since my situation seems pretty straightforward.

Even straightforward claims take time because they verify your wage history with all your previous employers. That process alone can take 1-2 weeks.

Yeah someone else mentioned that too. I've been filing them but wasn't sure if I was supposed to.

Good! That's the most important thing. As long as you keep filing weekly you won't lose any benefits.

Yeah, slow but steady seems to be their approach.

Yeah, I think I'm going to try Claimyr if I don't hear something by next week. The not knowing is killing me.

Let us know how it goes if you try it. I'm curious about whether it's worth it.

That's encouraging to hear! I might try that if I don't hear anything in the next few days.

Definitely worth it if you're getting worried. The peace of mind alone was worth it for me.

How quickly were you able to get through using their service?

They called me back within a few hours and had me connected to an ESD agent that same day. Way better than the weeks I spent trying to call myself.

That does sound much better than the endless hold times. Might be worth checking out their demo video to see how it works.

That's reassuring, thank you! I'm hoping being a straightforward layoff will help speed things along.

Yeah, layoffs are usually pretty cut and dried. The complicated cases are the ones that take forever.

Good advice about the job search records. I've been applying but not keeping detailed records yet.

You'll need to track company name, position, date applied, and method of application for each job search activity. Start a spreadsheet now.

That's good to know about the back pay. I was worried I might lose those weeks if it takes too long.

Yeah, the back pay is automatic as long as you filed your weekly claims. Don't worry about that part.

30 days seems like a reasonable deadline to really start pushing. I'm at about 10 days now so I'll give it a bit more time.

I agree with the 30-day rule. That's usually when something is definitely wrong that needs attention.

They sometimes request additional wage verification or employment documentation, especially if there are gaps in your work history or discrepancies in reported wages.

I had to provide additional documentation about a temp job I had. Added about 2 weeks to my processing time.

You're right, I need to stay proactive. I'll give it another week or two before I really start pushing for answers.

Good plan. Two weeks is reasonable, but after that you should definitely be asking questions.

That's good advice. I should use this time to really focus on my job search instead of just worrying about the claim.

Exactly! I used my unemployment period to get some certifications that actually helped me land a better job.

Thanks everyone for all the responses! This really helped calm my nerves. I'll keep filing weekly and check back if I don't hear anything in a few more weeks.

Good luck! And remember, if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD, that Claimyr option is there if the regular phone lines aren't working out.

I really appreciate all the support and advice from everyone. This forum has been more helpful than the Washington ESD website!

We're in the same boat! At least we know we're not the only ones dealing with this waiting game.

The waiting is definitely the hardest part of the whole process.

Good point! I'll make sure to start filing weekly claims as soon as I get my approval notice.

And don't forget about the job search requirements once you start receiving benefits!

That's actually really helpful to know. Maybe I should look into that if I don't hear anything by next week.

Sometimes the notification system has glitches, so it's good to be able to check directly with an agent.

Easier said than done, but you're probably right. The constant checking is definitely not helping my stress levels.

That's a good benchmark to keep in mind. Thanks for all the helpful responses everyone!

Good luck with your claim! Hope you hear back soon.

Several people have mentioned Claimyr now. Might be worth trying if I don't hear anything by next week.

Yeah it's definitely worth it if you're stressed about the timeline. Better to know what's actually happening than just wondering.

12 weeks?! I would have lost my apartment by then. Glad things are faster now.

yeah those were dark times, the system was completely overwhelmed

I registered with WorkSourceWA when I filed but haven't been logging job searches yet. Do I need to start that right away?

Yes, you should start logging job search activities immediately. The requirement is usually 3 job search activities per week, and you need to keep detailed records.

Actually, the job search requirement doesn't kick in until after your claim is approved and you start receiving benefits. But it's good to start early anyway.

Thanks, I'm trying to stay calm about it. Just hate not knowing what's happening.

That's really reassuring coming from someone with that much experience. I feel a lot better now.

No problem! Just keep filing those weekly claims and you should see movement soon.

Good to know there's a system to it. I was imagining it was just random or something.

Definitely not random! They have specific procedures and timelines they follow, even if it's not always transparent to claimants.

I've been checking pretty obsessively already but good to know the portal updates first!

Yeah the email system seems to lag behind the actual status updates for some reason.

Good to know it's legit. I might try it if I don't see movement by next Friday.

Yeah definitely worth it for peace of mind. Sometimes you just need to hear from an actual person that everything is processing normally.

A whole month?? That's crazy long when people are unemployed and need the money.

I agree it's too long but that's just reality with the system right now. Better to set expectations appropriately.

That's a good idea. Did they charge you a lot to use their service?

I'd rather not get into pricing details here, but I felt it was reasonable for what I got - which was actually talking to a human at ESD without spending hours on hold.

Six weeks is ridiculous! What did you do for money during that time?

had to borrow from family and friends. was not a fun time but they did eventually pay me for all the back weeks

Oh wow, I didn't realize missing a week could reset everything. That's scary.

Yeah, they're pretty strict about the weekly filing requirement. Better safe than sorry.

That's encouraging to hear. Hopefully you're right about retail being more straightforward.

I can confirm this - my retail layoff was approved in about 2.5 weeks while my friend who was fired from an office job took over a month.

I think they're still dealing with staffing issues from the pandemic. Lots of claims processors left and they're training new people.

Plus they're probably still getting higher volume than normal even though the worst of COVID is over.

Thanks for the reassurance. I'm trying to stay positive but it's hard when you don't know what to expect.

Totally understand. The uncertainty is almost worse than knowing it will take a long time. Hang in there!

How quickly were you able to get connected through them?

It was pretty fast compared to calling on my own. They handle all the waiting and callback stuff so you don't have to sit there hitting redial all day.

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

Good to know there's a timeline to expect. I'm at day 10 now so I'll give it another week before I start panicking.

Yeah, and remember that processing time doesn't include weekends, so 2-3 weeks really means 10-15 business days.

I double-checked everything when I submitted it. Used the exact company name from my pay stubs.

That's good. Sometimes there are issues if the company was recently acquired or changed names, but sounds like you should be fine.

I didn't know that about payment timing. Is there a schedule posted somewhere?

Yes, check the Washington ESD website - they have the payment schedule listed. It's usually Tuesday/Wednesday for most people.

Thanks for the encouragement. This whole process is more complicated than I expected when I first lost my job.

It really is overwhelming at first, but you'll get through it. Lots of people here have been in your shoes and made it work.

I definitely will! This thread has been super helpful - way more informative than the Washington ESD website.

That's what this community is for. We've all been through the unemployment process and know how confusing it can be.

Thanks for the encouragement. You're right, I just need to be patient.

That's a great idea! I'll look for that calculator. At least it would help me plan my budget.

Yeah knowing the potential amount definitely helps with planning

That's what I'm hoping! Thanks for all the helpful responses everyone.

Good luck with your claim! Hope you hear back soon.

That does make me feel better actually. I keep imagining worst case scenarios but you're probably right.

The anxiety is totally normal, we've all been there

Oh that's really good to know! I was worried I'd miss out on money for these waiting weeks.

Yeah the backpay feature is definitely helpful during these waiting periods

Thanks for all the support everyone! This thread has been really helpful and reassuring.