How to collect unemployment benefits in Washington - complete beginner guide needed

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic info about where I worked?

Just the basic employment info for the application, but keep your pay stubs handy in case Washington ESD requests them later during processing.

Thank you! Do I need to have any paperwork from my employer or just the basic info?

Just the basic info is fine for filing - employer name, address, dates of employment, and your final day worked. They'll contact your employer directly to verify everything.

Oh wow I didn't know there was a waiting period. So even if I get approved right away I won't see money for weeks?

Exactly - there's a one week waiting period that everyone has to serve, then it takes time for processing. Plan accordingly with your finances.

Thanks! Do I need pay stubs or will they contact my employer directly?

They'll contact your employer for wage verification, but having your last pay stub handy can help you fill out the application more accurately.

So it's not automatic once I'm approved? I have to keep doing something every week?

Correct! You have to file a weekly claim every Sunday for the previous week. It's like clocking in to get your unemployment check.

This is so confusing. Why can't they just send the money automatically if you're approved?

What happens if I make a mistake on the application? Can I fix it later?

Minor mistakes can usually be corrected, but major errors might delay your claim. Take your time filling it out the first time.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true that there's a service that can actually get you through to Washington ESD.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked for me when I had an adjudication issue. Way better than spending entire days redialing.

What counts as a job search contact? Just applying online or do I need to do more?

Applying online counts, but you can also include networking, attending job fairs, contacting employers directly, etc. Just keep detailed records of everything.

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic employer info?

Just the basic info for the initial application. They'll request documentation later if needed during the review process.

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic employment info?

Just the basic info for the initial application, but keep your pay stubs handy in case they need verification later during adjudication.

How do I file weekly claims? Is that separate from the initial application?

Yes, after you file your initial claim you log back into the same website every week to certify that you're still unemployed and looking for work.

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic employment info?

Just the basic info to start - Washington ESD will contact your employers directly to verify wages. Keep your pay stubs handy in case they ask for them later during adjudication.

Got it, so it's not automatic once I apply the first time?

Nope, you have to certify every single week that you're still unemployed and looking for work. Miss a week and you don't get paid for that week.

What's adjudication? That sounds scary.

It's just when they need to verify information on your claim before approving benefits. Pretty common, especially for first-time filers.

Thanks for the Claimyr tip - I'll keep that in mind if I can't get through to anyone.

I was laid off due to store closure, so I think I'm good there. How much do you need to have earned?

In 2025, you need at least $1,680 in your highest quarter and total base period wages of at least $2,520. Your base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you filed.

What counts as a job search contact? Just applying online?

Applications, contacting employers directly, networking events, job fairs. Keep detailed records with dates and contact info.

Don't give up! Take it one section at a time and save your progress as you go. The system saves your work so you don't have to complete everything in one sitting.

ok that helps knowing i can save it. i was worried id lose everything if i took a break

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic info about where I worked?

Just the basic employment info for the initial application. Washington ESD will verify your wages through their system. Keep your pay stubs handy though in case they ask for them later.

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or anything like that when I apply?

Not usually for the initial application, but having your last few pay stubs handy can help if there are any questions about your wages.

What counts as job search activities? Just applying for jobs or other things too?

Applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, career workshops, even updating your resume counts. You need to log everything in your WorkSource account.

Don't forget you can also count informational interviews and employer research as job search activities!

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or will they verify my wages directly with my employer?

Washington ESD will verify your wages automatically through their system. Having your last pay stub handy can help if there are any discrepancies, but it's not required for the initial application.

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or will they verify my wages automatically?

Washington ESD will verify wages with your employers automatically through their system. You don't need to submit pay stubs unless they specifically request them later.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week? I've heard different numbers.

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week in Washington. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, or networking activities. Keep detailed records of everything.

What counts as a job search contact? Does applying online count?

Yes, online applications count. You can also attend job fairs, networking events, or contact employers directly. Just document everything with dates, company names, and what you did.

Is that expensive? I'm already worried about money.

It's worth it if you get stuck and can't reach anyone. Much cheaper than missing weeks of benefits because your claim is held up.

Never heard of that service but might check it out. I've been trying to reach Washington ESD for days about my claim status.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money.

It's worth checking out their site for details. For me, the time saved was worth it since I was getting nowhere calling on my own.

How do you file the weekly claims? Is it also online?

Yes, through the same Washington ESD website or you can call their automated phone system. You'll report any work and earnings for that week, plus confirm you're able and available for work.

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

Yes, same website. You'll get instructions after your initial claim is processed. Weekly claims are usually due on Sunday for the previous week.

Is that legit? I'm always suspicious of third-party services for government stuff.

Yeah I was skeptical too but it actually worked. They just help you get through the phone queue - you still talk directly to Washington ESD agents yourself.

Good to know there's a backup option if I can't get through on my own. Hopefully I won't need to call at all.

Really? I've heard the phone lines are impossible. How does that service work?

It basically calls for you and waits in the queue, then calls you back when an agent is available. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Wish I'd known about that when I was dealing with my adjudication issues last year!

Never heard of that service. Is it legit or just another scam?

It's completely legitimate. I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Way better than spending hours trying to get through on my own.

Good to know there are options if I run into problems. Hopefully the online application goes smoothly.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true.

Yeah it's real. I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Much better than sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

Is that a paid service? I'm already tight on money.

It does cost something but honestly worth it when you're stuck. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Way better than spending all day redialing ESD.

Oh no, that's what I'm worried about. Did you eventually get all the back pay?

yeah eventually but it was hell. make sure you keep filing those weekly claims even if nothing's happening with your main claim

How do I know what my highest quarter was? Do I need to calculate that myself?

No, Washington ESD has all your wage information from employers. They'll calculate it automatically when you file your claim.

How do they calculate the actual dollar amount?

It's your highest quarter divided by 26, but there's a maximum weekly benefit amount that changes each year. For 2025 I think it's around $999 per week maximum.

What kind of things would disqualify me? I was laid off due to lack of work, not fired for cause.

Layoffs for lack of work are usually fine. Problems arise when people were fired for misconduct, quit without good cause, or aren't available for work.

Oh wow, I didn't know that! I'll apply tonight then. Thanks for the heads up.

Yeah this is super important - every day you wait is money you're losing out on.

What if I do some part-time work while collecting unemployment? Do I report that?

Yes, absolutely report all work and income. Washington allows you to work part-time and still collect partial benefits as long as you report it properly. Don't try to hide any income - they will find out.

Wait, so I have to go a whole extra week without any income even after I apply?

Yes, that's how it works in Washington. The waiting week is unpaid but you still need to file your weekly claim for that week.

What counts as a job search activity exactly?

Applying for jobs, contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, working with WorkSource, updating your resume, networking events. There's a full list on the ESD website.

Can I just apply to random jobs I don't want? Asking for a friend...

No, you need to apply for suitable work. ESD defines this as work you're qualified for at 70% of your previous wage after the first 5 weeks.

Pending usually means they're verifying your employment or there's some issue that needs to be resolved. Check your account for any messages or required actions.

I don't see any messages but maybe I'm looking in the wrong place? This website is so hard to navigate

What counts as a job search contact? Just online applications?

Online applications, contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, networking events, even updating your LinkedIn profile can count. Keep detailed records.

I thought it was 2 contacts per week, not 3?

It's 3 contacts per week for most people. Some exceptions apply but that's the standard requirement.

What kind of job search activities? Do I have to apply to a certain number of jobs?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, or networking activities. WorkSource has resources to help with this.

The job search requirement is such a pain when you're already stressed about money. But definitely don't skip it - they do audit these logs randomly.

Good to know! I'll try to do it during off-peak hours.

Yeah I learned this the hard way. Tried to file at 8am on a Monday and the site kept timing out.

What counts as job search activities? Do I need to apply to a certain number of jobs per week?

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or contacting employers directly. Keep detailed records!

Also register with WorkSourceWA - that's required and counts toward your job search activities.

What's adjudication? That sounds scary.

Adjudication just means they need to review something about your claim - like if you were fired vs laid off, or if there are questions about your work history. Most resolve within a few weeks.

a few" weeks is optimistic. mine took forever and they never even explained what the issuewas

What counts as 'actively job searching'? Do I need to apply to a certain number of jobs per week?

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or working with WorkSource.

The job search requirement is no joke - they can audit your log at any time and if you can't prove you were looking, they'll make you pay everything back.

That's what I'm worried about. Is it pretty confusing?

yeah kinda but once you do it a few times it gets easier. just make sure you file every week even if you dont think you qualify that week

I agree the website could be more user-friendly. Once you get started though, the actual application questions are pretty straightforward.

yeah i guess.. just wish there was like a simple checklist or something instead of having to hunt around for info

What causes a claim to go into adjudication? Is there anything I can do to avoid it?

It can happen for various reasons - if there's any question about why you left your job, if you worked in multiple states, or sometimes just randomly. There's not much you can do to prevent it unfortunately.

I had the same problem reaching Washington ESD until someone told me about Claimyr (claimyr.com). They help you get through to an actual agent instead of sitting on hold for hours. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much frustration.

That seems like a long time ago. What if I didn't work during that period but worked more recently?

You might qualify for an alternate base year which uses more recent quarters. The system will automatically check both options and use whichever gives you benefits.

This is why it's so important to file as soon as possible after losing your job - timing can affect your benefit calculation.

Is that different from the regular Washington ESD site?

SAW is the login portal that gives you access to your unemployment account. Same system, just the secure login part.

So even if I'm approved, I won't get paid for the first week?

Exactly. You still need to file that first weekly claim, you just won't get paid for it. Think of it as serving your waiting week.

When you say file immediately, do you mean the same day I was laid off?

You can file the same day or within the first week. The important thing is not to wait because benefits are backdated to when you file, not when you became unemployed.

What if my employer contests the claim? I left on good terms but you never know.

If they contest it, your claim goes into adjudication and an investigator will contact both you and your employer to get the facts. This can delay your benefits by several weeks.

Six weeks?! I can't afford to wait that long. Is there anything I can do to speed it up?

Identity verification is pretty common now. Make sure all your information matches exactly - name, SSN, address. Any discrepancies can cause delays.

Is there a way to estimate what my weekly benefit amount might be?

Washington ESD has a benefit calculator on their website, but roughly it's about 60-70% of your average weekly wage up to the state maximum.

Adjudication means they're reviewing something about your claim - could be verifying employment, checking eligibility, or investigating a separation issue. It's frustrating but normal.

how long does that usually take?? I'm about to lose my apartment

Can take 2-6 weeks depending on the complexity. Try calling Washington ESD to check on the status if you can get through.

What's adjudication? That sounds scary.

It's when ESD needs to investigate something about your claim - like if there are questions about why you left your job. Not necessarily bad, just takes longer.

My claim has been in adjudication for 8 weeks now. This system is broken.

What if I have a doctors appointment or something? Do I mark that I wasn't available?

A few hours for medical appointments usually doesn't count as being unavailable for work. You're still considered available for full-time employment.

They can audit you that long after? What happens if you don't have the records?

They can demand repayment of benefits if you can't prove you met the job search requirements. It's called an overpayment and they're very aggressive about collecting.

Yes, list all employers from your base period. Washington ESD will contact all of them to verify your wages and separation reasons.

What if one of them gives wrong information about why I left?

That's what the adjudication process is for - they investigate discrepancies. You'll have a chance to provide your side of the story.

My layoff might be temporary but they said it could be 3-6 months. Should I file for standby or regular UI?

With that timeline I'd file for regular UI. Standby is usually for much shorter layoffs where you know you'll be called back within a few weeks.

How do they calculate the exact amount?

They take your highest quarter earnings, divide by 26, then multiply by 0.0385. There's also a minimum and maximum cap. The ESD website has a benefit calculator you can use to estimate.

Oh I didn't think about taxes! Should I have them take taxes out or just save money myself?

I'd recommend having them withheld. It's easier than trying to save money for taxes when you're already on a tight budget.

I was definitely laid off - they eliminated my position due to budget cuts. Should be straightforward then?

That sounds like a clear layoff case, so you should be fine. Just make sure you report it accurately on your application.

Even if you were fired you might still qualify depending on the circumstances. Don't assume you can't get benefits.

What does adjudication mean exactly? Should I be worried about that happening?

Adjudication just means they need to review your claim more carefully, usually to verify why you're no longer working. Since you were laid off, it shouldn't be an issue, but sometimes they review claims randomly or if your employer contests it.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. The regular phone lines are basically impossible. I tried calling for over a week before finding that service.

Maybe I'll look into that. This is ridiculous that we need a third-party service just to reach a government agency.

Try calling right at 8am when they open, sometimes you can get through then

Is there a minimum you have to have earned to qualify? I was only working part-time for part of last year.

You need to have earned at least $1,096 in your base year and meet some other requirements. The base year is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters.

Good advice! I definitely want direct deposit. How long after I file should I expect my first payment?

If everything goes smoothly, usually 2-3 weeks after your first weekly claim. Remember there's a waiting week where you don't get paid for the first week.

The waiting week thing confused me so much when I first filed. You still have to file that first weekly claim even though you won't get paid for it.

Is WorkSource the same thing as the job search requirement?

No, WorkSource registration is separate. You register once and can use their job search tools, but you still need to do your 3 weekly job search activities on your own.

WorkSource actually has decent job listings and free resume help if you need it. Worth checking out even beyond the requirement.

Do I need to apply for any job or does it have to be similar to my previous work?

At first you can be somewhat selective for jobs similar to your previous work and pay level, but over time you're expected to expand your search to any suitable work.

That's helpful! Is there a maximum amount they'll pay?

Yes, there's a maximum weekly benefit amount that gets adjusted annually. For 2025 I think it's around $950 per week but check the current rates on their site.

What happens if I work part-time while on unemployment?

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits. Washington has a formula where they reduce your weekly benefit based on how much you earn, but you can usually still get something.

Do they audit your job search log or just trust what you report?

They can audit it, especially if there are questions about your claim. Always keep detailed records with dates, company names, and contact information.

I got selected for a job search review last month. Had to submit all my records going back 8 weeks. Good thing I kept everything!

Is that required or just recommended?

Required unless you're on standby with a specific return date. If you don't register, they can deny your benefits.

I was skeptical about using a third-party service but honestly after spending 6 hours on hold yesterday, I'm willing to try anything.

That's exactly how I felt. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get things sorted out.

Is WorkSource Washington the same as the WorkSource offices? Do I need to go in person?

You can register online at worksourcewa.com. You don't have to go in person unless you want to use their services. But registration is mandatory for unemployment benefits.

Is that separate from the ESD website?

Yes, it's worksourcewa.com. You'll need to create a separate account there.

Same experience here. I eventually used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and got through to an agent within an hour. Was definitely worth it when I was stuck in adjudication.

Yeah I should have tried that instead of wasting so much time. The agents are actually helpful when you can reach them.

What kind of details do they want? Just company names and dates?

Company name, contact info, position applied for, date, and method of application. I use a simple spreadsheet to track everything. Better safe than sorry.

How much does something like that cost though?

It's worth it when you're waiting weeks for benefits. Way cheaper than missing rent payments while trying to get through on your own.

Good to know! Is there a better time of day to file?

I usually file mine early Sunday morning and rarely have issues. Monday through Wednesday tends to be better for other activities on the site.

What happens during adjudication? Should I be worried?

It's just them verifying your eligibility. Since you were laid off, it should be straightforward. They might call you or your employer to confirm details about why you separated.

Good point about direct deposit. How long does it usually take for payments to show up?

Usually 1-2 business days after your weekly claim is processed, assuming there are no issues with your claim.

What would cause my claim to go into adjudication? How do I avoid that?

Sometimes it's random, sometimes it's because your employer disputed the claim. You can't really avoid it - just answer all questions thoroughly and honestly when you file.

What if I have a job interview out of town? Does that count as available?

Good question! Generally yes, because you're actively looking for work. Just make sure you can accept work if offered and aren't limiting your job search unreasonably.

Good idea! Can I change it later if I need to?

Yes, you can update your direct deposit info anytime through your online account. Just give it a few days to process before your next payment.

How do I file weekly claims? Is it the same website?

Yes, same website. You'll see an option to file your weekly claim. It asks about any work you did that week and any income you earned.

Better?? It's still a nightmare compared to other states I've lived in. But you're right about reading everything carefully.

Fair point. I just meant compared to how it was during the pandemic when everything was completely overwhelmed.

What causes a claim to go into adjudication?

Could be anything - if your employer contests the claim, if there's a question about why you left your job, or sometimes just random verification checks.

This is where Claimyr really helped me. I was in adjudication for 3 weeks and couldn't get anyone on the phone to explain what was happening. Used their service and finally got answers.

That's reassuring, thanks. I was let go due to company downsizing so I think I should qualify.

Downsizing definitely qualifies. Just be honest about the reason for separation when you file.

How much does something like that cost though? I'm filing for unemployment because I need money, not to spend it.

I get that concern, but when you're stuck in adjudication for weeks without payments, sometimes you need help getting answers. It's worth checking out their site to see if it makes sense for your situation.

Really? I've been unemployed for a week already before posting this.

A week shouldn't be a problem. They can usually backdate to your last day of work, but don't wait much longer.

Good thinking. I'll start doing that right away.

YES this saved me when they said I missed a weekly claim that I definitely filed.

What if I get a temporary job while collecting unemployment? Do I have to stop filing?

No, keep filing! Just report your earnings honestly. If you work full-time hours you won't get benefits that week, but part-time work just reduces your benefit amount.

This is really important - never just stop filing weekly claims without officially closing your claim. That can cause problems if you need to restart benefits later.

Should I print everything out or are digital copies okay?

Digital copies are fine, just make sure you save them somewhere you won't lose them. I keep a folder on my computer with all my unemployment documents.

Wait, unemployment is taxable income?

Yep, federal taxes for sure. Washington doesn't have state income tax so that's not an issue here.

I've heard about this service. Is it legit?

Yeah, totally legit. They don't ask for your personal info or anything sketchy. They just help you get through to ESD when their phone lines are swamped. Check out their demo video if you're curious.

What kind of work can I do while on unemployment?

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits, but you have to report all earnings. They'll reduce your benefit dollar-for-dollar after you earn more than your weekly benefit amount.

That's where services like Claimyr come in handy. I used them when I needed to speak with someone about my pending claim and they got me connected within an hour.

Wish I had known about that earlier. Would have saved me hours of frustration.