How long does the unemployment application take with Washington ESD?

That's not too bad. Is there anything I can do to speed up the process?

Make sure you have all your employment information ready - dates, wages, reason for separation. Any missing info will slow things down.

What kind of documents did they want?

driver's license, social security card, bank statements... seemed like they wanted everything

What triggers adjudication? I'm being laid off due to company downsizing.

Layoffs are usually straightforward, but if your employer contests the claim or there are discrepancies in employment dates, it could trigger review.

I had adjudication for 6 weeks because my employer said I quit but I was actually fired. It was a nightmare trying to reach someone at Washington ESD to explain.

Never heard of that. How does it work exactly?

They basically help you get through to an actual person at Washington ESD instead of getting stuck in the phone system. Super helpful when you need answers.

Sounds too good to be true... how much does it cost?

That's encouraging! Did you file online or over the phone?

Online through the Washington ESD website. Much faster than trying to call.

8 weeks?! That's insane. Have you tried escalating somehow?

I've tried everything. Even contacted my state representative. Nothing works with these people.

That's definitely not normal. There might be a specific issue with your claim that needs resolution. Have you received any correspondence explaining the delay?

Good to know! When do you start filing weekly claims?

as soon as you submit your initial application. Don't wait for approval

What counts as job search activities?

Applying for jobs, networking events, job fairs, career counseling. Keep detailed records because they audit these regularly.

I got audited last year and they wanted to see every single job application. Thank god I kept good records.

Seems like a few people have mentioned this service. Good to know it's an option.

I'm still skeptical about paying for something that should be free...

I get that, but when you're desperate to reach someone and can't get through after 100 tries, sometimes you need help.

What's a waiting week?

It's the first week of your claim where you don't get paid, even if you're eligible. It's just how the system works.

I'm already feeling anxious about it. Any tips for staying calm during the process?

just take your time and don't overthink it. you can always call if you make a mistake, though good luck getting through lol

Good advice! I'll plan to do it early morning.

Yeah the website crashes constantly during peak hours. Super frustrating.

What's the difference between standby and regular?

Standby is when your employer expects to call you back within a certain timeframe. Regular is when the job is permanently gone.

Standby also has different job search requirements - you typically don't have to look for other work while waiting to be recalled.

That's terrifying. What did they lie about?

They said they were laid off but actually got fired for attendance issues. The employer reported the truth during the verification process.

That's reassuring. I'll keep that option in mind if I get stuck.

How quickly were you able to get through with their help?

Within an hour, which was amazing considering I'd been trying on my own for days.

Ugh, that doesn't sound promising. Hopefully I won't need to call them.

Just be prepared for frustration if anything goes wrong with your claim. The system is not user-friendly.

Thanks for the reminder! I'll make sure to have my bank info ready.

Yes! Direct deposit is so much faster and more reliable.

That's awful. Have you tried getting help from anyone?

I've tried everything short of camping outside their office. Nothing works.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. When you're stuck like this, sometimes you need professional help navigating the system.

That gives me hope! Sounds like experiences vary a lot.

Definitely. I think having straightforward employment history helped. No complications or employer disputes.

Good point. I'll double-check everything before submitting.

Great advice, thank you! I feel much better prepared now.

Screenshots saved me when Washington ESD claimed I never submitted certain information. Always keep records.