How to apply for unemployment in Washington ESD - complete process walkthrough

First thing you need to do is create an account on SecureAccess Washington (SAW) if you don't have one already. Then go to the Washington ESD website and click on 'File a New Claim' - you'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked.

The process is pretty straightforward once you get started. Make sure you have your last employer's information handy including their FEIN number if possible. You'll also need to know your gross wages for each quarter. If you don't have exact amounts, estimates are okay but try to be close.

I went through this process last month and honestly the hardest part was just getting through on the phone when I had questions. The online application itself took me about 30 minutes once I had all my paperwork together. Just be prepared to wait if you need to call Washington ESD directly - their phone lines are always busy.

After you submit your initial application, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to continue receiving benefits. Don't forget this step! You have to certify that you're actively looking for work and report any income you earned that week. The weekly claims open every Sunday morning.

make sure you have direct deposit set up or they'll mail you a debit card. the debit card option has fees for some transactions so direct deposit is better if you can do it

One more important thing - you need to register with WorkSourceWA and create a job search plan. This is required for most unemployment claims. You'll need to document your job search activities and be prepared to show proof if asked.

Ugh this whole process is so stressful! I filed my claim 3 weeks ago and it's still showing 'pending' with no explanation. I've tried calling Washington ESD a million times but can never get through. Anyone else dealing with this?

I remember when I first applied, I was so confused about the difference between filing the initial claim and the weekly claims. The initial claim establishes your benefit amount and eligibility, while weekly claims are what you file every week to actually receive payments.

Be really careful about reporting any part-time work or income accurately on your weekly claims. Even small amounts need to be reported. Washington ESD will find out eventually through wage records and you don't want to deal with an overpayment situation.

The Washington ESD website has gotten better over the years but it's still not the most user-friendly. Take your time filling out the application and double-check everything before submitting. Mistakes can delay your claim processing.

Don't forget you might be eligible for other programs too depending on your situation. If you're on standby from your employer, that's a different process than regular unemployment. Make sure you're filing for the right type of benefits.

i applied online last year and it was pretty easy once i figured out the SAW login stuff. the worst part is waiting to hear back from them. my advice is to apply as soon as possible after you lose your job because there's a waiting period anyway

I've been through this process twice now and the key is being patient but persistent. If your claim gets stuck in adjudication or you need to speak with someone, don't give up. Sometimes you need to call multiple times or try different approaches to get help.

The job search requirement is no joke - make sure you're actually looking for work and keeping good records. Washington ESD can ask for proof at any time and if you can't provide it, they can disqualify you from benefits.

One thing that helped me was printing out the confirmation page after I submitted my application. That way I had a record of when I filed and my claim number for reference.

The hardest part for me was gathering all the employment information going back 18 months. I had to dig through old emails and contact previous employers for dates and wage information. Start collecting this stuff before you actually file if possible.

If you have any special circumstances like being a veteran or having a disability, make sure to mention that in your application. There might be additional resources or programs available to you through Washington ESD.

Just remember that filing for unemployment isn't something to be embarrassed about - it's a program you've paid into through your taxes. You're entitled to these benefits if you qualify, so don't let anyone make you feel bad about using them.

Last piece of advice - once you start receiving benefits, don't spend it all at once. Remember you'll need to pay taxes on unemployment income and it might affect your tax refund next year. Consider setting aside a portion for taxes.

The whole process can seem overwhelming at first but you'll get through it. Just take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Good luck with your application!