How to collect unemployment benefits in Washington - need help with the process

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic employment info like dates and wages?

Just the basic info - dates, employer names, and approximate wages. Washington ESD will verify everything with your employers directly.

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

Just the basic info for the initial application. Washington ESD will contact your employers directly to verify wages.

What counts as a job contact? Just applications or do networking events count too?

Applications, contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, networking events - they all count. Just keep detailed records of what you did and when.

I've been tracking mine in a spreadsheet with dates, company names, and type of contact. Makes it easy when they ask for documentation.

What kind of issues would cause that to happen?

Usually questions about why you left your job, conflicting information from employers, or if you had any disciplinary issues. Most of the time it gets resolved in your favor if you were legitimately laid off.

What exactly do I need to do for the job search requirements?

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep detailed records. Log everything in your WorkSource account - employer names, positions applied for, dates, and contact methods.

Never heard of that service before. Does it actually work for getting through to Washington ESD?

Yeah it really does. They keep calling Washington ESD until they get through and then connect you directly to an agent. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Good point about direct deposit. What happens if I work a day or two while collecting benefits?

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits. Washington ESD deducts 75% of your earnings from your weekly benefit amount. Just report everything honestly on your weekly claim.

How much does something like that cost? I'm trying to be careful with money right now.

It's worth checking out their site for pricing, but honestly when you're dealing with delayed benefits, sometimes you need to invest in getting the problem solved quickly.

I'll keep that in mind if I run into issues. Hopefully the process goes smoothly for me.

Is that separate from the Washington ESD application?

Yes, WorkSourceWA.com is a separate site but it's required. You need to create a profile there and keep it updated. It's part of the job search requirements.

Oh no, what would cause my claim to go into adjudication?

Common reasons include unclear separation reason from employer, wage discrepancies, or if you worked in multiple states. Don't panic - most adjudication issues get resolved within a few weeks.

This is solid advice. I had a week where the system said I didn't file but I had screenshots proving I did.

Exactly! Having that documentation saved me when Washington ESD tried to say I missed a filing week.

That's helpful to know. I was making decent money so hopefully my benefit amount will be enough to cover my basic expenses.

You can estimate your benefit amount on the Washington ESD website before you file. It gives you a rough idea of what to expect.

That's confusing. So my benefit amount won't be based on what I was making at the job I just lost?

Correct. If you started that job recently, those wages might not count toward your current claim. That's why it's important to file as soon as you're unemployed - delays can affect which wages are included.

Good advice. I was laid off due to company restructuring so that part should be straightforward.

Yeah, layoffs are usually pretty cut and dry. It's when people quit or get fired that things get complicated with the eligibility review.

So I won't get paid for my first week of being unemployed?

Right, but you still need to file that first weekly claim. Think of it as serving your waiting week - required but unpaid.

If everything is straightforward, usually 2-3 weeks. But if it goes to adjudication it can take much longer.

Ugh, I hope mine doesn't get held up. Bills don't stop just because you're unemployed.

I'm in the same boat - filed 10 days ago and still waiting. The uncertainty is the worst part.

Thanks for the tip! I'll make sure to set up direct deposit when I file.

Yes! I learned this the hard way. The debit card fees add up quickly if you're not careful.

This is super important! I stopped filing when my claim was pending and lost 3 weeks of benefits.

Exactly - Washington ESD won't backpay weeks you didn't file claims for, even if the delay wasn't your fault.

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

Yes online applications count, but so do networking events, job fairs, informational interviews, and contacting employers directly. Mix it up to show you're actively searching.

I'm not union but my employer said they might call people back in a few months. Does that qualify for standby?

Standby is usually for union workers or specific recall situations. Regular layoffs with potential callback still require job search. Check with Washington ESD to be sure.

I used Claimyr last month when I couldn't reach anyone about my adjudication. They got me connected to an agent same day and I finally got answers about my claim.

That sounds perfect. I just need to talk to someone about why my payments stopped. Going to check out their site.

I got 2 weeks severance pay. Does that mean I can't file for unemployment for 2 weeks?

You should still file immediately but report the severance. Washington ESD will determine which weeks it covers and when your regular benefits can start.

Same here. Was freaking out thinking something was wrong but turns out Washington ESD is just slow processing new claims.

Yeah it's nerve wracking when you need the money but the system works, just takes time. Keep documenting everything you do.

Good to know. Hopefully I won't need to appeal but it's good to be prepared.

Appeals are actually pretty common and many get overturned. Just don't wait - the 30 day deadline is strict.

My employer contested my claim saying I quit when I was actually laid off. Took 6 weeks to resolve but Washington ESD ruled in my favor.

Exactly why documentation is so important. Keep any emails, texts, or paperwork showing you were laid off not terminated for cause.

Oh wow I didn't even think about taxes. Can I set up withholding when I file my claim?

Yes, there's an option to withhold 10% federal tax when you set up your claim. Definitely recommend it unless you prefer to pay quarterly estimates.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more prepared to start the process now.

You're welcome! Don't hesitate to ask if you run into issues along the way. This community is here to help.

Are the job search requirements strict? Like do they actually check up on it?

They can audit your job search activities, so you need to be able to provide proof. I keep screenshots of applications I submit and business cards from networking events.

I got audited once and had to provide my entire job search log. Thankfully I had been keeping good records or I would have been in trouble.

I might need to try that. I've been calling for days and either get a busy signal or sit on hold forever just to get disconnected.

I'll bookmark that just in case. Hopefully I won't need it but good to know there are options.

Thanks for the encouragement. I'm trying to stay positive about the whole thing.

Yeah, the waiting is stressful but most people get through it fine. Just make sure you don't miss any weekly filing deadlines.

Good to know. I'll keep that in mind when I'm filing.

I had to use Internet Explorer of all things to get the site to work properly last year. Their system is quirky.

What if I do some freelance work that pays later? Do I report it when I do the work or when I get paid?

Report it for the week you did the work, not when you got paid. They want to know about your work activity, not just income.

This is important! I know someone who got in trouble for not reporting freelance work properly.

That's reassuring. I'm going to file my initial claim this afternoon.

Good luck! The hardest part is just getting started. Once you're in the system it gets easier.