How to apply for unemployment by phone with Washington ESD - still possible?

Washington ESD stopped taking new applications by phone a few years ago. Everything has to be done through their website at esd.wa.gov now. I know it seems overwhelming but the online system walks you through each step pretty clearly.

yeah they made everything online only. took me forever to figure out how to upload my documents correctly the first time i applied

You'll need to create an account through SecureAccess Washington (SAW) first, then access the unemployment application. Have your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment information for the last 18 months ready. The system will ask for employer names, dates of employment, and reason for separation for each job.

I had so much trouble getting through to someone when I had questions about my application status. Spent hours on hold just to get disconnected. Recently found out about this service called Claimyr that actually helps you get through to Washington ESD agents without all the waiting and busy signals. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

The online application isn't that bad once you get started. Just make sure you have a stable internet connection and don't try to rush through it. Save your progress as you go because the system can time out if you take too long on one page.

make sure you apply within the first week after losing your job or you might lose benefits for that waiting week

the hardest part for me was remembering all my previous employers addresses and phone numbers. wish i had kept better records

The Washington ESD website has a checklist of everything you need before starting your application. Print it out and gather everything first - it'll make the process much smoother.

Anyone else think it's ridiculous they don't offer phone applications anymore? Not everyone is comfortable with computers and the internet.

Just a heads up - after you submit your initial application, you'll still need to file weekly claims every week to get paid. That's also online only now. Don't forget about that part or you won't receive any benefits.

One more tip - make sure you answer all the questions about why you left your job accurately. If Washington ESD needs to investigate your separation, it could delay your benefits for weeks during adjudication.

If you do run into problems after applying and need to talk to someone at Washington ESD, definitely try that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. I was skeptical at first but it saved me so much time and frustration trying to get through their phone lines.

Don't stress too much about the online application. Thousands of people do it every week. Take your time, have your documents ready, and you'll get through it fine.

remember to keep copies of everything you submit and write down your confirmation numbers

And if you do end up needing to contact Washington ESD after you apply, seriously consider using Claimyr. I wasted so many hours trying to get through on my own before I found them. Made the whole process so much less stressful.

The key thing is just to get started. The longer you wait, the more benefits you're potentially missing out on. Even if the online form seems intimidating, it's really not that bad once you dive in.

i had to redo my application twice because i made mistakes the first time. slow down and double check everything before you submit

Once your claim is approved, remember that you'll need to do job search activities and report them. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week for most claimants.

Good luck with your application! The first step is always the hardest but you'll feel so much better once it's submitted and you know benefits are coming.

If you have any issues with your account or application after submitting, that Claimyr service really is a game changer for getting through to Washington ESD. Much better than the regular phone system.

The most important thing is that you're taking action now. Two weeks isn't too long to wait, and you'll be getting benefits soon. Just stay on top of your weekly claims once everything is approved.