How to claim unemployment benefits in Washington - complete beginner here

Thank you! Should I file even if I think I might get called back to work? My manager said it could be temporary but wasn't sure.

Yes, absolutely file anyway. If you get called back, you can always stop claiming. But you need to establish your claim date to protect your potential benefits.

Wait really? I thought there was still a one week waiting period. When did that change?

It was suspended in 2020 and they made it permanent. No more waiting week in Washington.

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

No, you should apply as soon as possible. There's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits start, but your claim date is when you file, not when you were laid off.

How much does that cost? I'm already broke waiting for benefits.

It's worth it if you need to actually talk to someone. Way better than wasting entire days redialing.

I used Claimyr too when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Got through same day and got my issue resolved. The regular phone system is just broken.

How do I file these weekly claims? Is it online too?

Yes, you can file online at esd.wa.gov or by phone. Online is usually faster. You'll get a schedule of when to file - it's usually the same day each week.

Is that legitimate? I'm nervous about using third-party services for something this important.

Yeah it's legit, they just help you get through the phone system. You still talk directly to Washington ESD agents. I was skeptical too but it actually worked.

I've heard of people using that service. The phone lines are absolutely horrible to get through on your own.

What counts as a job search activity? Does just looking at job postings count?

Looking at postings doesn't count - you need to actually apply, contact employers, or do activities that could lead to employment. Keep detailed records of everything.

That's exactly what I'm worried about! Are there better times to call?

supposedly early morning is better but honestly i've tried everything. maybe try that claimyr thing the other person mentioned

How long does it typically take to get approved and start receiving benefits?

If everything goes smoothly, usually 2-3 weeks. But if there are any issues with your claim, it could go into adjudication which takes longer.

What happens if I make a mistake on my weekly claim?

You can usually correct it by calling them or sometimes online, but it's better to be careful the first time. Take your time filling it out.

What counts as job search activities? Just applying for jobs?

Job applications, networking events, career fairs, WorkSource workshops, updating your resume, even LinkedIn profile updates. Keep detailed records of everything.

I know right? And half the time the site is down for 'maintenance' at random hours.

The site works better early in the morning before everyone gets on it. Try filing around 6-7 AM.

Is WorkSourceWA the same as the Washington ESD website?

No, they're different. WorkSourceWA is for job searching and some training programs. Washington ESD is for your actual unemployment claim.

Good point about registering early. Some people get confused because you need accounts on both systems.

What if I'm not sure exactly what my employer will report? They said it was a layoff but I'm worried they might say something different.

Stick to the facts as you know them. If there's a discrepancy, Washington ESD will contact both you and your employer to get the full story.

You can file online 24/7, which is one of the advantages. The system sometimes goes down for maintenance late at night, but usually it's available.

Yeah definitely file online if you can. The phone system is a nightmare during business hours.

What if I get sick? Do I still file my weekly claim?

yes you still file but you mark that you weren't available for work. you might not get paid for that week but you keep your claim active

Same boat here. Filed 3 weeks ago and still waiting. Called hundreds of times but can't get through.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. When you can't get through the normal way, you need something that actually works.

My claim took 4 weeks to process. Apparently they're backed up with reviews. Just keep filing your weekly claims even while waiting.

Wish I had known this! Got halfway through my claim and had to start over because of the SAW thing.

What's the difference between SAW and the regular ESD login?

SAW is Washington state's unified login system. ESD uses it for security. You'll need it for most interactions with your claim.

Should I print everything out or are digital copies okay?

Digital copies are fine, just make sure they're backed up somewhere safe. Screenshots of your weekly claims are helpful too.

How long did it take you to find another job? I'm hoping this won't be for too long.

Took me about 4 months, but I was being picky about the right fit. The job search requirements actually helped me stay organized and motivated.

Thanks for the reassurance. This whole situation is really stressing me out.

We've all been there. The first time is always the scariest but you'll get through it.

Good to know there are options if I can't get through the normal way. Hopefully I won't need to call at all.

yeah hopefully not but just in case. the website usually works fine for the basic stuff

How long does ID verification usually take?

Can be anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on how backed up they are. Submit everything they ask for as quickly as possible.

Oh wow, I didn't even think about taxes. Should I have them withheld?

Depends on your situation, but it's usually easier to have them withheld so you don't get hit with a big tax bill later.

How long did it take for you to get your first payment?

First time took about 3 weeks, second time was faster at about 10 days. Depends on whether you run into any issues.

This is confusing - what if I just started working recently?

if you dont have enough earnings in the base year they might use an alternate base year. the system will figure it out when you file

What about unemployment income from other states? I moved here from California last year.

You might need to file in California if that's where you earned your wages. Check the base year requirements for both states.

What kinds of things cause claims to go into adjudication?

Usually things like questions about why you left your job, potential eligibility issues, or if there's conflicting information. Most get resolved in a few weeks.

Yeah, adjudication sounds scary but it's often just a routine review. Just be patient and provide any info they ask for.

How do they determine how much you get?

It's based on your earnings in your base year. Roughly about half of your average weekly wage, up to the maximum.

Thank you for saying that. I was feeling really bad about having to file.

Exactly right. You paid into this system specifically for situations like this.

I'll definitely keep that in mind if I run into problems. Thanks everyone for all the help!

Good luck with your claim! Remember to file those weekly claims every week no matter what.

Thank you! I feel much more prepared now. Going to file my claim this afternoon.

Got it, so I should expect to file 2-3 weekly claims before I see any money?

Exactly. The waiting week plus processing time means it's usually 2-3 weeks before the first payment.

How much does it cost? Is it worth it for just general questions?

I'd say it's worth it when you really need to talk to someone and can't get through otherwise. Check their site for current info - claimyr.com

Great job! Keep an eye on your mail and email for any communications from Washington ESD. Sometimes they need additional information.

Awesome! The hardest part is behind you now. Weekly claims will become second nature after a few weeks.

Congrats on getting it filed! Remember to keep track of your job search activities starting now, even before your first weekly claim.

Thanks! Hopefully you never need it, but good to know the info is here if you do.