How to apply for unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about the process

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic employment info?

Just the basic info for the application. They might ask for pay stubs later if there are questions about your wages.

Oh no, I should have applied yesterday then! Is there any way to backdate it?

You can sometimes get the waiting week backdated to your last day of work, but you need to file within a reasonable timeframe. Don't panic, just get it done today.

I had the same problem last month until someone told me about Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents - they have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Saved me hours of frustration.

That actually sounds really helpful. I'm going to check that out because I've wasted so much time on hold.

What happens if I make a mistake on the application?

You can usually correct minor errors by calling or through your online account, but major mistakes might require starting over or could delay processing.

Six weeks?! What kind of documents did they want?

proof of identity, work authorization, wage records, basically everything. just have it all ready from the start

How do I know when to start filing weekly claims?

You'll get instructions after your initial claim is processed. Usually you can start filing weekly claims the Sunday after you apply.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

Currently it's 3 job search activities per week, but activities can include more than just applications - networking, job fairs, skills training all count.

Good point, I should probably clean out my spam folder too.

I've only worked in Washington so I should be good there.

Perfect, then Washington ESD is definitely the right place to file.

If it's straightforward it can be approved within a week or two. If there are any questions about your separation from work, it might go into adjudication which takes longer.

What's adjudication exactly?

It's when they need to investigate something about your claim, like if your employer contests it or there are questions about why you left your job.

That's really smart advice, thank you!

How does that work exactly? Do they call for you?

They help you get connected to an actual agent instead of getting stuck in the phone system. Check out their demo video to see how it works.

What if I do some freelance work or odd jobs?

Report it all. Washington ESD has specific rules about how much you can earn before it affects your benefits, but you still need to report everything.

I know it seems overwhelming at first, but once you get through the initial application it's mostly just filing weekly claims. Take it one step at a time.

How long do you have to appeal?

Usually 30 days from the date of the determination letter. The appeal process is also done online through your Washington ESD account.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm going to start my application right now.

Should I scan everything or just keep the originals?

I'd recommend both - scan everything as backup and keep the originals in a folder. Digital copies are easier to access but sometimes they want originals.

That's a good way to think about it. I was feeling kind of embarrassed but you're right.

Where would I find information about those programs?

Start with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services website. They have links to all the assistance programs available.

Do they audit job searches often?

Not super often, but it happens. Better to be prepared than scramble to remember what you did weeks ago.

Yeah I got audited last year and had to provide 3 months worth of job search records. Luckily I had kept everything organized.