How much time do you have to file for unemployment with Washington ESD?

You can still file! Washington state doesn't have a strict deadline for filing your initial unemployment claim, but you should do it as soon as possible. The key thing to remember is that your benefits will only start from the week you actually file - they won't backdate to when you were first unemployed. So those 6 weeks you waited are unfortunately weeks of benefits you can't get back.

The general rule in Washington is that you have up to one year from your separation date to file an initial claim, but like the previous poster said, benefits only start from when you file. There are very limited circumstances where Washington ESD might backdate a claim, but waiting because you thought you'd find work quickly isn't one of them. Get your claim filed ASAP and start your weekly certifications right away.

I was in a similar situation last year - waited about a month before filing because I was embarrassed about being on unemployment. Biggest mistake ever. Those lost weeks of benefits really hurt when money was already tight. Don't make the same mistake I did!

Just wanted to add - even though you can file up to a year later, you should know that if your claim gets held up in adjudication for any reason, having filed closer to your separation date can actually help your case. It shows you were actively seeking benefits when you became unemployed rather than as an afterthought.

I had issues getting through to Washington ESD when I was trying to file my claim. Their phone lines are always busy and I kept getting hung up on. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to an actual ESD agent. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Saved me hours of calling and redialing.

Whatever you do, don't wait any longer. I know people who waited months thinking they didn't qualify or were too proud to file, and they lost thousands in benefits. Construction work can be unpredictable - you've paid into the system through your paychecks, so don't feel bad about using it when you need it.

One more thing to keep in mind - once you file, you'll need to do weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. Don't forget about those or you'll miss out on payments even after you've filed your initial claim.

I'm curious, what kind of construction work were you doing? The reason I ask is that some construction workers might be eligible for standby benefits if there's an expectation of being called back, but that's pretty specific to certain union situations.

ugh the washington ESD system is so confusing... I filed 3 months ago and STILL having issues with my claim. Every time I call I get a different answer from different agents. At least you're starting fresh!

For what it's worth, I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier when I was having trouble reaching ESD about my adjudication status. Worked really well - got through to an agent in like 20 minutes instead of the hours I'd been spending trying to call. They were able to explain exactly why my claim was held up and what I needed to do to resolve it.

Construction is tough because work can be seasonal and unpredictable. I've been in and out of unemployment several times over the years due to projects ending or weather delays. Don't feel bad about filing - that's exactly what the system is designed for.

Just file online today! Don't overthink it. The application takes maybe 30-45 minutes and then you're done. You'll get a determination letter in a few days letting you know if you're approved and how much you'll receive.

One last tip - keep track of all your job search activities starting now. Washington requires you to make 3 job search contacts per week, and they can audit your records. Keep a log of where you applied, when, and what happened.

Update us on how the filing process goes! I'm sure others reading this thread might be in similar situations and would benefit from hearing about your experience.