How to claim unemployment benefits through Washington ESD - complete beginner guide needed

Thanks! Do I need exact dates for all my previous jobs or just approximate?

Exact dates if possible, but Washington ESD can verify with employers if you're off by a few days. Just be as accurate as you can.

What day of the week do I file the weekly claims?

You can file anytime Sunday-Saturday for the previous week, but most people do it Sunday morning to get it out of the way.

Never heard of that service before - does it actually work or is it just another scam?

It's legit, I was skeptical too but it really did get me through to someone who could explain why my claim was taking so long.

How much does something like that cost though? I'm already broke from being unemployed.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

It's usually 3 job search activities per week, but check your specific requirements when you get approved.

Thanks! Do I need pay stubs or anything like that from my last job?

You don't need to submit pay stubs initially, but Washington ESD will verify your wages with your employer. Having your last pay stub handy can help you fill out the employment dates accurately though.

Try using a different browser or clearing your cache. The site works better with Chrome in my experience.

Same thing happened to me! So frustrating when you're already stressed about money.

Wait, so even if I'm approved I don't get paid for the first week?

Right, it's called a waiting week. You still have to file the weekly claim but you won't get paid for that first week.

That's what I'm worried about. What if I mess something up on the application?

If you run into issues and can't get through on the phone, I recently discovered this service called Claimyr that helps you actually reach Washington ESD agents. They have a system that gets you connected without the endless hold times. Check out claimyr.com - they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

I have the layoff notice from HR, is that enough?

That should be perfect - keep a copy of everything just in case they need it later.

Good luck getting through on the phone though - I've been trying for days and can never get past the busy signal.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr - saved me so much time and frustration trying to reach someone.

This is super helpful! How long does it typically take to get the first payment?

If everything goes smoothly, about 2-3 weeks from when you first apply. But that assumes no issues with your claim - sometimes they need additional verification which can add time.

Mine took 6 weeks because it went into adjudication. They had to verify my reason for separation from my employer.

What counts as a job search activity?

Applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or registering with WorkSource. They're pretty specific about what qualifies, so make sure to read the requirements carefully.

Is there a calculator on the Washington ESD website?

Yes, they have a benefit calculator tool that gives you an estimate before you apply.

This is so important - my cousin got disqualified for 'misrepresenting' something minor and it took months to appeal.

Good to know, I'll make sure everything is accurate even if I have to look up old pay stubs.

What ended up happening with your claim? Did it eventually get approved?

yeah it went through eventually but only after i called like 50 times trying to get someone on the phone. the automated system kept hanging up on me

How will I know if my claim is in adjudication?

It'll show up in your online account dashboard - you'll see 'adjudication in progress' or something similar.

That's reassuring to hear - I'm worried I'll mess something up and lose my benefits.

You'll be fine! The system is designed to help people, not trick them. Just read the instructions carefully.

So I basically lose a week of benefits?

Yes, unfortunately that's how Washington's unemployment system works. The waiting week is unpaid.

That's such BS honestly. Like people who just lost their jobs don't need that money right away 🙄

Do they audit claims often?

Not super often but it does happen randomly. Better to be prepared than scrambling to recreate months of job search records.

That's still better than nothing while I'm looking for work.

Exactly - it's not meant to be permanent but it definitely helps cover basic expenses while job hunting.

Good point, I was actually thinking about waiting a week or two to see if anything came up.

Definitely don't wait. Even if you find a job right away, you can always withdraw your claim. But you can't backdate it if you wait too long to apply.

Did you ever figure out what was causing the errors?

I think it was browser compatibility issues. Worked better in Chrome than Internet Explorer for me.

Yeah their website is definitely finicky. That's another reason why having a backup way to reach them is helpful - like that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier. Really saved me when I had technical issues with my online account.

What if I have childcare issues that limit when I can work?

You'll need to work that out before claiming benefits or you might not qualify. They expect you to be fully available for work.

I feel you - went through the same thing last year. The bureaucracy is unreal.

That's another reason why services like Claimyr are so helpful - they know how to navigate the system faster than we do.

When do I start filing weekly claims - right after I submit my application?

Yes, you should be able to file your first weekly claim the Sunday after you apply, even if your application is still being processed.

Thanks everyone for all the advice! I'm going to start the application today and hopefully everything goes smoothly.

You're welcome! Feel free to come back and ask if you run into any specific issues during the process.

What kind of identity proof do they usually want?

Driver's license, passport, or state ID usually. Sometimes they want multiple forms of ID if there are discrepancies in their system.

I was definitely laid off - they eliminated my position due to budget cuts. Does that make the process any different?

Nope, being laid off is the most straightforward situation for unemployment. You shouldn't have any issues with eligibility.

What does adjudication mean exactly?

Adjudication is when Washington ESD needs to investigate something about your claim before they can approve it. Could be verifying your work history, reason for separation, or eligibility requirements.

In my case they're verifying my reason for leaving my last job. My employer apparently disputed my claim saying I was fired for misconduct, which isn't true.

Is that something I need to do right away or can I wait until after my claim is approved?

You should do it right away. Washington ESD expects you to register within a reasonable time after filing your claim.

What happens if I accidentally miss the deadline?

You can still file it late but it might delay your payment. And if you miss too many they might close your claim entirely.

happened to me once when i was out of town and forgot. had to call and explain the situation to get it straightened out

That's smart, I wouldn't have thought of that.

Yeah I learned that the hard way when they claimed I never submitted certain information that I definitely did submit.

Where do I find the online calculator?

It's on the Washington ESD website under the 'Estimate Your Benefits' section. Just search for benefit calculator on their site.

Good advice. I was wondering about a gap in my employment history - should I mention that?

Yes, be upfront about any gaps. They'll ask about all your employment in the past 18 months so it's better to explain it yourself than have them discover it later.

How long do unemployment benefits last in Washington?

Usually up to 26 weeks, but it depends on how much you worked and earned during your base period.

Any tips for getting through on the phone?

Call right when they open at 8am or try the lunch hour around noon. Those seem to be the best times.

Or use that Claimyr service I mentioned - honestly saved me so much time and frustration compared to calling myself. Worth checking out if you run into any roadblocks.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more confident about getting started now.

You're welcome! Don't hesitate to come back if you run into any issues during the process.

Definitely going to start the application today. Thanks again everyone!

You got this! The first application is always the hardest part.