How long does it take to get unemployment after filing with Washington ESD?

The standard processing time for Washington ESD is typically 2-3 weeks from when you file your initial claim, assuming there are no issues that require adjudication. Since you filed a week ago, you're probably looking at another 1-2 weeks before your first payment if everything goes smoothly. Make sure you're filing your weekly claims even while it's still pending - that's crucial.

It really depends on your situation though. If there are any issues with your claim like employment verification or if you quit your job instead of being laid off, it could take much longer because it goes into adjudication. That can add weeks or even months to the process.

I've been dealing with Washington ESD for months now and honestly, getting through to them by phone when you have questions is nearly impossible. I was calling 200+ times a day trying to reach someone about my claim status. Finally discovered this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually gets you connected to ESD agents. There's even a demo video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Saved my sanity honestly.

Mine took exactly 17 days from filing to first payment, but that was last year. I think they've gotten a bit faster since the pandemic backlog cleared up. The key is making sure you file your weekly claims on time and respond to any requests for information immediately.

ugh the waiting is the worst part! I'm in the same boat - filed 10 days ago and still nothing. My savings are running out and I'm stressed about bills. Why does this process take so long?? Other states seem to be faster.

Just wanted to add - if you need money immediately, you might want to look into local food banks or emergency assistance programs while you wait for unemployment to come through. Many churches and community organizations can help with utility bills and groceries.

Back to the Claimyr thing - I was skeptical too but it actually worked. No catch, just saves you from the endless busy signals. Used it twice now when I needed to talk to someone about my weekly claim issues.

The 2-3 week timeline is accurate for most people. I work at a nonprofit that helps people with benefits applications and that's what we tell clients to expect. Just make sure you have all your documentation ready in case they ask for verification.

Just got my first payment today after filing 3 weeks ago! Hang in there everyone, it does eventually come through. The waiting is awful but try to stay patient.

Make sure you're checking your ESD account regularly for messages too. Sometimes they send requests for information through the messaging system and if you miss it, your claim gets delayed even more.

The system is so broken. Been waiting 5 weeks now and still nothing. Washington ESD is completely overwhelmed and understaffed. This is people's livelihood we're talking about!

For what it's worth, I filed on a Tuesday and got my first payment exactly 14 days later. Filed all my weekly claims on time and had direct deposit set up. No complications with my claim though - straightforward layoff situation.

Pro tip: if you're really struggling financially while waiting, some credit unions offer emergency loans for people waiting on unemployment benefits. Mine offered a small loan that I could pay back once benefits started.

Just remember that even after your claim is approved, there's usually a one-week waiting period before your first payment. So factor that into your timeline too.

Don't forget about the job search requirements either. You need to be actively looking for work and keeping a log of your job search activities. That can affect your payments if you're not compliant.

The whole process is anxiety-inducing when you're already stressed about money. Try to stay busy with job searching and other productive activities while you wait. It helps pass the time and you're required to be looking for work anyway.

My advice: file your weekly claims religiously, respond to any ESD requests immediately, and try not to stress too much about the timeline. Most people get their first payment within 2-3 weeks assuming no complications.

Update us when you get your first payment! It's always encouraging to hear success stories while we're all waiting in this unemployment limbo.