How long does it take to get unemployment payment from Washington ESD?

That's a relief, I was worried it would take over a month. Do you know if they send any notification when the payment is processed?

Yes, you'll get an email notification and you can check your payment status in your online account. Make sure to keep filing your weekly claims even while waiting for the first payment.

Oh no, 6 weeks?? How do you find out if it's in adjudication? My status just says under review.

it will specifically say 'adjudication in progress' if thats whats happening. under review is different and usually means theyre just processing normally

If you need to check on your claim status or speak with someone about delays, I had success using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually get through to a Washington ESD agent. They have a service that helps you navigate the phone system and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

I filed my first weekly claim yesterday. Should I file again this Sunday even though I haven't received any payments yet?

Yes, absolutely keep filing weekly claims. You need to file for every week you're unemployed, even during the waiting period and while your initial claim is processing.

Have you tried calling right at 8am when they open? That's usually the best time to get through.

tried that too, still get busy signal or disconnected after waiting on hold for hours

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr - the regular phone system is nearly impossible. They handle the calling process and get you connected to an actual agent who can explain what's causing the delay.

This breakdown is really helpful, thank you! So I should expect my first actual payment in about 10 days if everything goes normally?

Exactly, assuming no complications. The key is making sure you file your weekly claims on time and respond to any requests for information immediately.

What kind of documentation did he need to provide?

they wanted paystubs and some form from his employer about why he was laid off. took forever to get it sorted

Good point, I'll set that up today. How much faster is direct deposit usually?

Direct deposit usually hits your account 1-2 days after they process the payment. The debit card can take 7-10 business days for the first one to arrive.

How many jobs do I need to apply to each week?

You need to complete 3 job search activities per week. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or taking training courses. Keep detailed records of dates, company names, and contact information.

15 days sounds reasonable. Did you get any updates during those two weeks or did it just appear in your account?

I got an email notification that my claim was approved after about 10 days, then the payment showed up a few days later. Keep checking your online account for updates.

i mean yeah it is frustrating but most people do get their benefits eventually if they follow all the rules

eventually isnt good enough when u have bills to pay NOW

Is this a free service? I'm already stressed about money so I don't want to pay for something I might be able to do myself.

They do charge for the service, but honestly after wasting dozens of hours trying to get through myself, it was worth it to get answers about my claim status. You can check out their demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ to see how it works.

That's good to know! I was worried I'd lose out on benefits if the processing took too long.

Nope, as long as you file your weekly claims on time, you'll get paid for all eligible weeks once approved. Just don't miss any weekly filing deadlines.

That's a good suggestion. I'll look into local resources just in case the payment takes longer than expected.

also talk to ur landlord if ur worried about rent. most will work with u if u explain the situation and show that benefits are coming

Where do I set up those alerts? I want to make sure I don't miss anything important.

In your online account, go to 'Account Settings' and then 'Notification Preferences'. You can choose to get emails and text alerts for various updates.

What are the most common reasons claims get denied?

Most denials are due to not meeting work requirements, being fired for misconduct, quitting without good cause, or not being available for work. If you were laid off due to lack of work, you should be fine.

Thanks for the encouragement. I'm trying to stay positive but it's hard when you don't know when the money will come.

patience is easy to say when its not ur rent thats due next week

I might try that if I don't hear anything by next week. At least then I'd know if there are any problems with my claim.

That's a good plan. Sometimes just knowing what's happening, even if it's a delay, is better than being in the dark about it.

Good point. I'll start a folder with all my unemployment paperwork and keep it organized.

Yes, definitely do this! I had to reference my records several times during my claim period and it saved me a lot of headaches.

You're welcome! Feel free to post updates or ask more questions if anything comes up.

Good luck! The waiting is the hardest part, but it sounds like you're doing everything right.