How to claim unemployment benefit in Washington - complete beginner needs help

Thank you! Do I need to wait a certain amount of time after being laid off or can I apply right away?

You can apply the same day you lose your job. Don't wait - there's a one week waiting period before benefits start anyway.

What are the job search requirements? Do I have to apply for jobs right away?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. The WorkSource website has more details about what counts as a valid job search activity.

Is that service legit? How much does it cost?

Yeah it's totally legitimate. They don't ask for any personal info, just help you get through the phone queue. Way better than spending hours on hold.

That sounds really helpful! I'll definitely check it out if I run into issues.

When do I start filing weekly claims? Right after I submit my initial application?

You'll get instructions after you file your initial claim. Usually you can start filing weekly claims the Sunday after you apply.

Six weeks?? I really can't wait that long for money. Was there a problem with your claim?

yeah it went into adjudication because my previous employer contested it. total mess

That's reassuring. My manager told me it was just a reduction in force due to slow sales, so hopefully that helps.

Make sure you get that in writing! Any documentation from your employer about the layoff will help if there are questions later.

Good to know! Should I mention anything about the store's sales being down?

You can mention it briefly but keep it factual. Something like 'laid off due to reduced business/lack of work' covers it.

At least I'm not alone in this! Have you been able to reach anyone at Washington ESD to check on your claim status?

Nope, every time I call I either get a busy signal or sit on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - saved me so much frustration when I needed to check my claim status.

Can I update my address online if I need to?

Yes, you can update most info through your online account. Just make sure to do it as soon as possible if anything changes.

I didn't even think about taxes. Should I have them take taxes out automatically?

I'd recommend it - 10% federal withholding. Better than getting hit with a big tax bill later.

Because it's government bureaucracy at its finest! But once you get through the initial setup it's not too bad.

I'm hoping it gets easier once I figure out the first steps.

That's really good advice. Should I print stuff out or is digital okay?

Digital is fine as long as you have backups. I keep everything in a dedicated folder on my computer.

I wasn't planning on working part-time right away, but good to know for later. How much can you earn before it affects benefits?

It depends on your weekly benefit amount, but generally you can earn up to your weekly benefit amount minus $5 before it starts reducing your UI payment.

That doesn't sound encouraging! What's the biggest thing that trips people up?

usually the job search requirements or missing deadlines for weekly claims. set reminders on your phone!

Everyone keeps mentioning that service. I'm definitely going to bookmark it in case I need help reaching someone.

Same here! My cousin used it when his claim went into adjudication and he needed to speak with someone urgently.

You need to be able and available for work and actively seeking employment from day one. The job search requirements kick in immediately.

So I should start applying for jobs right away even while waiting for my claim to be approved?

Absolutely. Keep detailed records of your job search activities - you'll need them for your weekly claims.

Thanks for the encouragement. I'm trying not to stress but bills don't wait unfortunately.

I totally get it. See if you can work out payment plans with utilities/landlord if needed while you wait for benefits to start.

As long as you earned enough in your base period and meet the other eligibility requirements, part-time work history shouldn't disqualify you. Your benefit amount will be based on your earnings though.

What's the base period? I keep seeing that term but don't understand it.

It's the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. That's what they use to calculate your benefits.

Same here! Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm going to start my application tonight.

Good luck! Remember to take your time with the application and double-check everything before submitting.

And don't hesitate to use Claimyr if you need to reach Washington ESD for any reason. Much better than the phone runaround!