How long to get unemployment approved in Washington - ESD processing times?

No notices yet, just the confirmation that they received my application. Hoping it stays simple since the layoff was pretty clear cut.

Even 'simple' claims can get flagged for random verification. I had a straightforward layoff and still waited 3 weeks for approval.

Have you tried calling right at 8am when they open? That's usually the best time to get through, though even then it's hit or miss.

Tried that several times but still get busy signals or disconnected after waiting on hold for hours.

I had the same problem until someone told me about Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Worked for me - got connected within 2 hours instead of spending days trying. Check out claimyr.com if you're desperate to talk to someone.

Good point about the weekly claims. I've been doing those but wasn't sure if I should continue while still pending.

Definitely keep filing weekly claims. If you don't, you could lose those weeks even after approval.

I understand the frustration but there are usually specific reasons for delays - identity verification, work history discrepancies, or separation issues that need review.

maybe but they should at least tell you whats going on instead of leaving people in the dark

That's reassuring. I only worked in Washington and the layoff was company-wide, so hopefully no complications.

Even with everything correct, I still had to verify my identity which added 2 weeks to the process. Be prepared for extra steps.

Check with 211 for local assistance programs. Some counties have emergency rental assistance and food banks that can help while you're waiting for UI approval.

I mentioned this earlier but Claimyr really helped me get answers about my delayed claim. They have this video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Might be worth trying if you need to know what's holding up your claim.

Thanks, I'll look into both options. This waiting with no communication is the worst part.

What exactly are the job search requirements? I've been looking but haven't been tracking it formally.

You need to make 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. Register with WorkSourceWA too if you haven't already.

thats exactly what im talking about - they should have told you this weeks ago instead of making you guess

Employer contests are unfortunately common even for legitimate claims. The good news is if you win the appeal, you'll get back pay for all the weeks you've been waiting.

Yeah, that's what they told me. Just frustrating that it took so long to find out what was actually happening.

That gives me hope! What kind of documentation did you have ready?

Layoff notice from my employer, last pay stub, and all my W-2s from the past year. Basically anything that showed my work history and why I was separated.

That's exactly why I started using Claimyr - at least when you get through to an agent through their service, you can get consistent information about your specific claim status. Worth the cost just for peace of mind.

I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point. How does Claimyr actually work?

They basically handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Way better than spending your whole day redialing.

Good to know, thanks for the timeline expectations.

exactly my point - the whole system lacks transparency

While I agree they could communicate better, the prioritization usually makes sense - straightforward claims with complete information get processed faster than complex cases requiring investigation.

Didn't know about text alerts, thanks! Just signed up for them.

Those text alerts saved my sanity during the waiting period. At least you know when something changes.

I appreciate the insight but wish they would give claimants better updates during this verification process.

Agreed, the communication could definitely be improved. Many people don't realize their claim is under review until they call in.

That's really helpful advice. I wish I had thought to gather everything ahead of time.

This is excellent advice. Having documentation ready can cut weeks off processing time if they need verification.

Congrats! That gives me hope that mine will eventually come through too.

Thanks for following up with the resolution. 8 weeks is long but at least you got the back pay.

Yeah, getting all those weeks of back pay at once was actually pretty nice, even though the wait was stressful.

Interesting tip! I've been checking constantly during the day but never thought to try late night.

Yeah, I think their system updates run overnight or something. That's when I first saw my approval status change.

Thanks everyone for all the insights and experiences. This thread has been super helpful for setting expectations.

Glad we could help. Remember to keep filing those weekly claims no matter what, and don't hesitate to reach out if you run into specific issues.