How long does it take when applying for unemployment benefits through Washington ESD?

Thanks! Do I need to file weekly claims right away or wait until I get that determination letter?

You should start filing weekly claims immediately, even before getting your determination. The claims are backdated to when you became unemployed, so you won't lose any weeks.

Oh no, that's terrifying. What kind of documentation did they ask for? I want to be prepared.

pay stubs from last 18 months, W2s, and a detailed letter from my employer about why I was laid off. have everything ready just in case

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work or is it just another scam?

It's legit - they basically call for you and connect you when an agent picks up. I was skeptical too but it beat spending my whole day redialing the same number.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money.

What triggers adjudication? I was definitely laid off due to lack of work, not fired or anything.

Usually happens if your employer disputes the claim or if there are questions about your work history. Since you were laid off for lack of work, you should be fine.

That's encouraging! Did you have to do the waiting week or did they waive that?

No waiting week for me since I was laid off. They only do waiting weeks for certain types of separations now.

Every state has different processing times and requirements. Washington actually improved a lot since the pandemic backlog got cleared up.

maybe but still feels like forever when youre waiting for money

Good point! I'll check that daily. Is that the same login as the unemployment website?

Yes, same login credentials. Look for anything marked as 'action required' or pending documents.

That's exactly why I mentioned claimyr earlier - it eliminates all that calling frustration. They handle the wait time for you.

Might be worth trying if I have issues with my next claim. The phone system is absolutely brutal.

When do I need to start the job search requirements? Right away or after I start receiving benefits?

You need to start job search activities for the first week you file a claim, even if you haven't been approved yet.

How would I know if they contested it? Would Washington ESD tell me?

yeah youd get a notice about a fact finding interview or hearing. hopefully yours is straightforward

Is there anything I can do to speed up the process or just have to wait?

Make sure all your contact info is current and respond immediately to any requests for information. That's about all you can control.

Thanks for the reassurance. It's hard not to worry when bills are due!

I only had one job for the past two years, so hopefully that helps speed things up.

That should definitely help! Single employer claims usually process faster.

Even then it's hit or miss. I had better luck using that claimyr service someone mentioned earlier rather than playing phone roulette.

might have to try that if i need to call again

Should I have taxes withheld or just pay them at the end of the year?

Depends on your situation, but many people prefer having them withheld to avoid a big tax bill later.

Is the benefit amount based on my highest earning quarter or an average?

It's based on your highest earning quarter in your base period. The formula is roughly 3.85% of total base period wages.

That's what I keep telling myself. Just need to get through this initial waiting period.

Good to know! I was laid off on Friday but didn't apply until Monday. Will I still get paid for that weekend?

Benefits are calculated by week, so if you were unemployed for the full week, you should be eligible for that week's benefits.

Thanks for all the advice everyone! Feeling much more prepared for this process now.

You're welcome! Feel free to ask if you run into any issues during the process.

Definitely noted! My contact info should stay the same but good to keep in mind.