How to certify for unemployment benefits Washington ESD weekly claims process

So I do this every Sunday? What if I forget one week?

You can usually file late but you might have to explain the delay. Don't make it a habit though.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs or other stuff too?

Applying for jobs, networking events, career fairs, even some types of training. Keep detailed records with dates and employer names.

Have you tried Claimyr? It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. I used it last month when I was stuck on a certification issue. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Never heard of that. Is it legit?

Yeah, it actually got me connected within an hour instead of calling for days. Way better than sitting on hold forever.

What if I do some gig work like DoorDash? Do I have to report that too?

Yes, any income needs to be reported. Even if it's just $20 from a gig, report it.

I get the frustration but the requirements are there to prevent fraud and make sure benefits go to people who are actively looking for work.

still annoying when you're just trying to survive between jobs

Good idea! What time on Sunday do they usually open the system?

I think it's available all day Sunday but I usually do it in the morning to get it over with.

The full website is definitely better. The mobile version has issues and sometimes doesn't save your information properly.

Ugh that explains why I had problems last week. Thanks!

If you're on approved standby status, you typically don't need to search for work, but you still need to certify weekly and be available if your employer calls you back.

Thanks, that's what I thought but wanted to make sure.

You should contact Washington ESD to correct it ASAP. It's better to fix it now than have them discover the error later during an audit.

This is exactly why I used Claimyr to get through to them quickly. Way easier than trying to call normally.

I know it's annoying but keep good records. If they ever audit your claim, you'll need to show proof of your job search activities.

Fair point. Better safe than sorry I guess.

Able means you're physically and mentally capable of working. Available means you're not doing other things that would prevent you from accepting work if offered.

So if I have a doctor's appointment, does that make me unavailable?

Not necessarily. You can still be available for work even with appointments, as long as you could reschedule if a job offer came up.

Smart! I'll start doing that.

Glad it helped! The key is just being consistent and honest with your reporting.

Yes, but your benefits will be reduced based on how much you earn. There's a formula Washington ESD uses to calculate partial benefits.

Good to know. I might take a part-time position while I keep looking for full-time work.

It's always Sunday for the previous week, but holidays might affect when the system is available. Check the Washington ESD website for any announcements.

Include company name, position applied for, date, method (online, in person, etc.), and contact information if you have it. The more detail the better.

This is another thing I wanted to ask Washington ESD about but couldn't get through. Maybe I'll try that Claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier.

You're welcome! Just remember to be consistent and honest, and you'll be fine.

Thanks for the encouragement! I'm definitely overthinking everything right now.

That's totally normal when you're new to the system. You'll get the hang of it!

Great advice. I'll make sure to review everything carefully.

And if you do need to make corrections after submitting, Claimyr can help you get through to Washington ESD agents faster than regular calling. Really saved me time when I had certification issues.