How to apply for unemployment benefits with Washington ESD - complete walkthrough needed

Sorry to hear about your job loss. The Washington ESD application process isn't too complicated once you know the steps. First, you'll need to create a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account at login.wa.gov if you don't already have one. Then go to esd.wa.gov and click 'Apply for Benefits.' You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment information for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation.

Make sure you apply as soon as possible! There's a waiting week before benefits start, and you want to get your claim established right away. The online application usually takes about 30-45 minutes if you have all your info ready.

One thing that really helped me was using Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD when I had questions during my application. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call during peak times.

After you submit your application, you'll get a determination letter in about 1-2 weeks. If approved, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to receive benefits. The weekly claim filing opens on Sunday and you have until the following Saturday to complete it.

ugh the whole process is such a pain. took me forever to get through the application because the website kept timing out. and don't even get me started on trying to call them when i had questions

Don't forget about the job search requirements. You'll need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of your activities. This starts the week after your waiting week. You can use WorkSourceWA.com to search for jobs and track your activities.

One tip - have your banking info ready when you apply. Direct deposit is the fastest way to get your benefits. Otherwise you'll be waiting for a debit card in the mail which can take extra time.

If you run into any issues during the application process or need to speak with someone at Washington ESD, I can't recommend Claimyr enough. It's been a game-changer for actually getting through to agents when you need help. Way better than the regular phone lottery.

Make sure you answer all the questions on the application honestly and completely. Any discrepancies can cause delays or issues later. If you're unsure about something, it's better to call and ask than to guess.

word of advice - save copies of everything. your application, any correspondence from ESD, your weekly claims. you never know when you might need to reference something later

The whole process has gotten more streamlined over the years, but there can still be hiccups. Most people get through the application fine, but if your claim goes into adjudication for any reason, that's when you might need to contact Washington ESD directly for updates.

Don't stress too much about the process. Thousands of people apply every week and most go through without major issues. Just take your time with the application and make sure you have all your employment info organized beforehand.

One thing I wish I'd known - you can start the application and save it if you need to gather more information. You don't have to complete it all in one sitting.

the hardest part for me was remembering all my previous employers addresses and phone numbers. if you've had multiple jobs make sure you look all that up first

After you submit your application, you should get a confirmation number. Write that down! It's helpful if you need to reference your application later when calling Washington ESD.

I just went through this process last month and it was actually pretty smooth. The website walked me through everything step by step. Just make sure you have a quiet place to work on it where you won't be interrupted.

Good luck with your application! The waiting period can be stressful but once you get your first payment it's a huge relief. Just remember to keep filing those weekly claims and doing your job search activities.