How long does the Washington ESD unemployment process take from start to finish?

What kind of issues could delay it? I'm pretty sure I qualify since I was laid off due to company downsizing.

Things like wage disputes, separation issues, or if Washington ESD needs to verify your identity. Those can add weeks to the process.

6 weeks?! That's terrifying. How did you survive financially during that time?

Barely. Had to borrow money from family and use credit cards. The worst part was not knowing what was happening with my claim.

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

I was skeptical too, but it really worked. They don't publish pricing on the site but for me it was worth it to actually talk to someone instead of calling 50+ times a day.

I've heard of Claimyr too. A coworker used it when her claim got stuck in adjudication and she said it was a lifesaver.

So even after approval I have to keep doing stuff every week? What happens if I miss filing a weekly claim?

Yes, you have to file every week to certify you're still unemployed and looking for work. Miss a week and you don't get paid for that week. It's stupid but that's how it works.

Wait, what? They can take back money they already paid me if my job search isn't good enough?

Yep, they call it an overpayment and you have to pay it back. Make sure you're documenting everything in WorkSourceWA.

That's a bit extreme. Most people don't get audited unless there's a specific reason. Just keep good records and you'll be fine.

This is exactly what I'm worried about. How did you finally get through to them?

kept calling at 8am sharp every day. took me probably 200+ calls over 3 weeks before i got through. its insane

This is exactly why I recommend Claimyr. Would have saved you weeks of frustration and stress.

That's what I was afraid of. I don't have 6 weeks of expenses saved up.

Look into local food banks and utility assistance programs while you wait. Most counties have emergency assistance for people in your situation.

Good point. I should probably gather all my pay stubs before filing.

Definitely. And if you worked for multiple employers in the last 18 months, have all that information ready too.

How do they calculate the weekly amount? Is it based on my last job's salary?

It's based on your wages from all employers during your base period, which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters. The formula is complicated but you can estimate about 60-70% of your average weekly wage.

Ugh, I didn't even think about taxes. How much do they typically withhold?

You can elect to have 10% withheld for federal taxes. State taxes depend on your total income for the year.

Good to know. I assume I need to set that up through the SecureAccess Washington website?

Yes, through your eServices account. Make sure your bank account information is correct because wrong info can delay payments significantly.

That gives me hope! What industry were you in? I'm wondering if that makes a difference.

I was in retail management. I think the key was having a clear separation reason and all my employer info was already in their system from a previous claim years ago.

Is there any way around the waiting week?

Nope, it's mandatory. You'll get paid for it eventually but not until your claim is approved and processed.

The waiting week is included in your first payment, so you do get it eventually. It's just delayed.

What's the best time to call? I've heard early morning is better.

Right at 8am when they open. Have your SSN and claim number ready. The hold music will drive you crazy but don't give up.

Or just use Claimyr and skip the hold music torture entirely. Seriously, it's worth it for your sanity.

8 weeks is insane! Have you tried contacting your state representative? I've heard they can sometimes help with bureaucratic issues.

I'm considering it. At this point I'm desperate. Bills don't stop coming just because Washington ESD can't get their act together.

That's pretty cynical but probably true. The system definitely doesn't feel user-friendly.

It's not cynical if it's true. Look at how many people give up because they can't navigate the system or wait months for approval.

The system has improved a lot since the pandemic though. It used to be even worse.

What's the difference practically? If it's filed, shouldn't it be in the system?

Filed means they received your application. Processed means they've reviewed it and made a determination. Big difference in terms of when you actually get paid.

What triggers identity verification? Is there anything I can do to avoid it?

It seems random honestly. Having multiple employers, gaps in employment, or even just filing from a different computer than usual can trigger it.

Thanks everyone for all the info. This is both helpful and terrifying at the same time.

Just remember that even if it takes longer than expected, you'll get backpay for the entire period once it's approved. Hang in there.

A few people have mentioned Claimyr now. It must actually work if multiple people are recommending it.

Yeah, I was skeptical at first too but after weeks of getting nowhere with regular calling, I was willing to try anything. Glad I did.

Good thinking. I'll start a folder for all unemployment-related documents right away.

Smart move. Organization will save you headaches later if any issues come up with your claim.