How long for Washington ESD unemployment benefits to start after filing?

Thanks, that's reassuring. I was worried something was wrong since I haven't heard anything.

Yeah mine took about 3 weeks too, just be patient and keep filing those weekly claims

Good to know, I've been filing them every Sunday like clockwork

This is important advice - I know someone who missed one week and it screwed up their whole claim timeline

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. It's been a lifesaver for actually reaching someone.

Interesting, how does that work exactly? Is it legit?

Yeah it's totally legitimate. They basically handle the waiting on hold part for you and then connect you when an agent is available. Way better than spending hours on the phone getting nowhere.

How do you know if your claim is in adjudication? Mine just says 'valid' on the website

If it's in adjudication it will specifically say that in your claim status. 'Valid' means you're good to go, just waiting for processing.

I filed on a Wednesday, so hopefully that's a good day. Did you have to do anything special to speed it up?

Not really, just made sure all my information was accurate when I filed and kept up with the weekly claims. The key is being consistent.

I get the frustration but they do have to verify everything to prevent fraud. It's annoying but necessary.

I understand fraud prevention but the process shouldn't take this long in 2025. Other states process claims much faster.

Yes I've been doing that! I log everything in the WorkSourceWA system like they require.

Good, that's exactly what you need to be doing. Keep documentation of all your job search activities just in case.

I was laid off due to company downsizing so there shouldn't be any issues there. My employer didn't contest anything.

then you should be fine, separation issues is what really slows things down

That would be nice! I wasn't sure how the waiting week thing worked.

Yeah the waiting week has been waived on and off depending on the situation. You'll see it reflected in your payment when it comes through.

Exactly! I keep refreshing my account hoping to see something there.

It will come, just try to stay patient. Maybe call your landlord if rent is tight and explain the situation.

That's amazing! What did they tell you about your claim status?

She said it was in final processing and I should see my first payment within the next few days. Way more helpful than the automated phone system.

Thanks, trying not to stress but it's hard when money is tight.

I did set up direct deposit when I filed, so that should help speed things up once payments start.

Good thinking. Direct deposit usually processes 1-2 days faster than the debit card option.

Look for the 'Claim Summary' section in your account. That will show you the most current status information.

thanks ill check that out

Good to know. I'm at 10 days now so I'll give it another week or so before getting concerned.

How much does it cost? Is it a one-time fee or monthly?

It's per call but honestly worth it when you need answers. Much cheaper than the stress of not knowing what's happening with your claim.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice. I feel much better knowing this timeline is normal.

You've got this! Just stay consistent with the weekly filing and you'll see that payment soon.

Yeah we're probably in the same processing batch. Hopefully we both see payments soon!

Mine shows $487 per week which should cover my basic expenses while I job search.

That's a decent benefit amount. Should definitely help while you're looking for new work.

Thanks for the encouragement. I'll update this thread when I get my first payment for anyone else who might be wondering about timing.