How to certify unemployment benefits - Washington ESD weekly claim confusion

So if it's Tuesday, I'm certifying for last week Monday-Sunday? That makes more sense, thanks!

exactly right, and you have to do it every week to keep getting paid

RIGHT?? Why don't they just say 'certify here' instead of all these confusing menu options

The 'File Weekly Claim' link is the certification process. I know it's confusing but that's the correct place to go each week.

Is that legit? I'm nervous about using third-party stuff for unemployment

Yeah it's real, they just help you get connected to Washington ESD agents faster. I was skeptical too but it actually worked when I needed help with my adjudication issue.

What if I worked a few hours during the week? Do I report that?

Yes, absolutely report any work hours and earnings. Washington ESD will calculate your partial benefit amount based on what you earned.

this is important - always report earnings even if its just a few bucks, they will find out anyway

Wait, I have to do 3 job search things EVERY week? That seems like a lot

Yes, it's required unless you're on standby status. Applications, networking events, job fairs, skills training all count toward the 3 activities.

What happens if they audit you?

they can ask for proof of your job search activities and work history, if you cant provide it you might get disqualified

Good idea! What time does the deadline end on Sunday?

I believe it's 11:59 PM Pacific Time on Sunday, but don't cut it that close in case there are technical issues.

You won't get paid for that week, but you can usually call Washington ESD to explain the circumstances. They might allow you to certify late with good cause.

This is exactly when I used Claimyr - needed to explain my late certification to an agent and couldn't get through the regular phone lines. Much easier than spending all day redialing.

What does 'able and available' actually mean? I had a dentist appointment one day, does that count against me?

able and available means you could work if offered a job. a dentist appointment for a few hours wouldnt disqualify you for the whole week

You certify for the week that just ended. So if you certify on Monday January 13th, you're certifying for the week of January 6th-12th.

OK that makes sense, thanks for clarifying!

How do they calculate partial benefits? I might pick up some gig work

They deduct your earnings from your weekly benefit amount, but there's usually a small earnings disregard. Check the Washington ESD website for the exact formula.

Good to know! I was wondering if I could batch them if I went out of town

How much does it cost?

I'd rather pay a reasonable fee than waste entire days trying to get through. It's worth it when you actually need help with your claim.

What kind of documentation do they usually want?

Screenshots of job applications, emails from employers, training certificates, anything that proves you did what you said you did during certification.

That's reassuring to hear from someone with experience!

Same here, consistency is key. Don't change your story from week to week.

What if someone offers me a job that pays way less than my previous job?

There are rules about suitable work based on your skills and previous wage. You can't just refuse any job, but you also don't have to take anything that's completely unreasonable.

Yes, most people need to register with WorkSourceWA within a certain timeframe. It's part of the job search requirements.

OK good, I did that already but wasn't sure if it was required or just recommended.

I'm definitely feeling overwhelmed by all the requirements

Just take it one week at a time. The certification becomes routine after a few weeks.

How long does direct deposit usually take?

Usually 1-2 business days after you certify, assuming no issues with your claim.

Were you able to get it fixed easily?

took a while to get through but they fixed it. thats when i learned about the claimyr service from someone else on here