How to apply for unemployment in Washington - step by step process?

You'll need to apply through the Washington ESD website at esd.wa.gov. The application is all online now - no need to go anywhere in person. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates of employment. Also have your bank account info ready if you want direct deposit.

The whole process was pretty straightforward for me when I applied last year. Just make sure you have all your employer information exact - addresses, phone numbers, supervisor names if you remember them. Washington ESD is really picky about getting everything right or they'll make you go through adjudication which takes forever.

I've been trying to get through to Washington ESD on the phone for weeks about my claim and it's impossible! Their phone system is a nightmare. If you run into issues after applying, there's actually a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps people get through to agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works. Saved me hours of frustration.

The key things for your initial application: be 100% honest about why you lost your job, report any severance pay you received, and make sure your work history is complete. Washington ESD will verify everything with your employers anyway, so don't try to hide anything or you'll just create problems for yourself later.

ugh the washington esd website is such garbage... crashed on me like 3 times when i was trying to apply last month. had to start over each time because it doesnt save anything

After you submit your initial application, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. This is separate from the initial application and you have to do it even if you haven't been approved yet. The weekly claims ask about any work you did, money you earned, and whether you were able and available for work.

Don't forget about the job search requirements! Starting your second week of benefits, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. You can do this through WorkSourceWA.com or track it yourself, but Washington ESD can audit you at any time so keep good records.

I applied in December and still waiting... this system is broken. My claim has been in adjudication for over a month with no updates. Can't get anyone on the phone to explain what's happening.

For what it's worth, once you do get approved and start receiving benefits, the process becomes pretty routine. File your weekly claim every Sunday, report any work or earnings honestly, and keep looking for jobs. The hardest part is usually just getting through that initial application and approval process.

Make sure you understand the difference between being laid off vs fired for cause. If you were laid off due to lack of work, you should be fine. But if there were performance issues or misconduct, your employer might contest your claim and you'll have to go through an appeal process.

One thing nobody mentions is that you might be eligible for other programs too. If you've been working for a while and need retraining, look into WIOA programs through WorkSource. They can sometimes pay for school while you're on unemployment.

just a heads up that if you have any side income like uber or freelance work you HAVE to report it on your weekly claims even if its just like $50. they will find out eventually and make you pay everything back

The whole thing is so confusing honestly. I've been putting off applying because I'm worried I'll mess something up and get in trouble. But I guess I can't put it off forever since my savings are running out.

Pro tip: take screenshots of everything during your application process and save confirmation numbers. The system glitches sometimes and you'll want proof of what you submitted and when.

Does anyone know if there are any fees or costs associated with filing for unemployment? I'm already tight on money and can't afford to pay anything upfront.

I went through this whole process last year and the biggest thing I learned is to be patient but persistent. The system is slow and frustrating, but most legitimate claims do get approved eventually. Keep detailed records of everything and don't be afraid to follow up if things seem stuck.

If you're getting overwhelmed by all this info, just focus on the basics first: gather your employment history, apply online at esd.wa.gov, and file your weekly claims. You can figure out the details as you go along.

Last thing - make sure you understand your appeal rights if something goes wrong. If your claim gets denied or you disagree with a decision, you have 30 days to appeal. Don't let that deadline pass if you think there's been a mistake.

This thread has been super helpful! I'm in a similar situation and was completely lost about where to start. Going to bookmark this and start gathering my paperwork.

One more resource - the Washington ESD website has a lot of helpful guides and FAQs that walk through the whole process step by step. Worth reading through before you start your application.