How long is the Washington ESD unemployment waiting period for new claims?

Thanks! So I need to keep filing weekly claims even during that first week when I won't get paid?

Yes, exactly. You must file for that first week to establish your claim pattern, but you won't receive payment for it.

Oh no, how do I know if my claim will need adjudication? I was laid off due to budget cuts.

Layoffs due to budget cuts are usually straightforward, but sometimes ESD still needs to verify details with your employer. Check your account regularly for any requests for information.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that calls Washington ESD for you and connects you when they get through. Saved me hours of frustration. Check out claimyr.com - they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

That sounds too good to be true. How much does it cost?

I was skeptical too, but it actually worked. The peace of mind was worth it when I was stressed about my claim being stuck.

What's the difference between regular UI and standby? I thought unemployment was just unemployment.

Standby is for temporary layoffs where you expect to return to the same employer within a specific timeframe. Regular UI is for permanent job loss. The waiting period and job search requirements are different.

Actually, waiting periods vary by state. Some states have eliminated the waiting period entirely, but Washington still has the one-week rule.

good to know, didn't realize it was different everywhere

The waiting period and adjudication are separate processes. Your waiting period applies to your first eligible week regardless of adjudication status. But you won't receive any payments until adjudication is resolved.

This is so confusing. So I could be waiting much longer than just one week?

Unfortunately yes. The one-week waiting period is just the minimum. Adjudication can take several weeks depending on the complexity of your case.

Wait, so the waiting period doesn't count during adjudication? That seems really unfair.

Actually, that's not correct. The waiting period should apply to your first eligible week, regardless of adjudication timing. You might want to contact ESD about that.

Maybe I misunderstood what they told me. The whole process was such a nightmare.

This is the clearest explanation I've seen. Thank you!

Exactly right. The key is to keep filing weekly claims no matter what, even during adjudication.

I mentioned Claimyr earlier - it's exactly for situations like yours. When you can't get through to ESD on your own, they handle the calling and connect you with an agent. Really helped me when I was stuck in adjudication limbo.

At this point I'm willing to try anything. I'll check it out.

My cousin used something similar and finally got answers about her claim. Sometimes you need help navigating the system.

How many job searches do I need to do per week in Washington?

It depends on your individual requirements, but typically 3 job search activities per week. Check your account for your specific requirements.

And keep detailed records! ESD can audit your job search log at any time.

If you're reopening an existing claim within your benefit year, there's no new waiting period. But if you're filing a completely new claim, the waiting period applies again.

That makes sense. Thanks for clarifying!

I agree it's frustrating, but at least it's only one week. Some states used to have longer waiting periods.

One week can make or break someone's rent payment. It's still too long when people are desperate.

Good advice! I should probably get my paperwork together while I'm waiting anyway.

Yes! And register with WorkSource Washington if you haven't already. It's required and better to do it early.

The waiting period is the first week you claim benefits, not from when you file your initial application. So if you file your claim on Monday but your first eligible week starts the following Sunday, that following week is your waiting period.

Okay that makes more sense. So it's based on your actual unemployment dates, not the application date.

Exactly. Your benefit year and weekly claim schedule are based on when you became unemployed, not when you got around to filing the paperwork.

File your weekly claim exactly like any other week. Report any work or income, certify that you're able and available for work, and meet all the usual requirements. The only difference is you won't receive payment for that week.

Perfect, thank you. At least now I know what to expect.

That's a good point. I hadn't thought about other programs. Do you know where to apply for those?

Check with DSHS (Department of Social and Health Services) for food and medical assistance. Many counties also have emergency assistance programs.

So glad it worked for you! That's exactly why I recommend it. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get answers.

This gives me hope. I might try it if my adjudication drags on much longer.

It's crazy that we need third-party services just to reach our own state agency, but whatever works!