How to enroll unemployment benefits with Washington ESD - complete process?

You can file your initial claim online at esd.wa.gov - don't need to go anywhere in person unless there's a specific issue. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, dates worked, and gross wages earned. Also have your bank account info ready if you want direct deposit.

Make sure you file as soon as possible! There's a waiting week in Washington but you want to get your claim started right away. The online system can be slow during peak times so try early morning or late evening.

I spent HOURS trying to get through to Washington ESD when I had questions during my enrollment. Their phone lines are constantly busy and the website doesn't always explain everything clearly. If you run into issues getting someone on the phone, there's actually a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you reach ESD agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much frustration.

Just be prepared for the process to take longer than you expect. My claim went into adjudication after I filed and took 5 weeks to get approved. Make sure all your information is 100% accurate when you submit.

Also remember you'll need to do job search activities once your claim is approved. Washington requires 3 job search activities per week and you have to keep a log. Don't skip this part or they can disqualify you.

ugh the whole system is such a mess... took me 3 tries to get my application submitted because the website kept timing out. and then when I finally got through they said I made some tiny mistake and had to start over AGAIN

To clarify that confusion - your last day worked is literally the last day you performed work duties. Your separation date is when your employment relationship officially ended, which might be later if you had vacation pay, severance, etc. Use the separation date on your unemployment application.

Just went through this whole process last month. One tip - screenshot everything! Save confirmation numbers, print your application summary, keep records of every step. The system glitches sometimes and you'll want proof of what you submitted and when.

Don't forget about WorkSource! You'll need to register with them too as part of the job search requirements. It's a separate system but they work together with Washington ESD.

The whole Washington ESD system is honestly pretty user-friendly once you figure it out. Just take your time filling everything out and double-check all your dates and employer information before submitting.

One more thing - if you worked in multiple states in the past 18 months, you might need to file in a different state depending on where you earned the most wages. Washington ESD can help figure that out if you're not sure.

seriously just be patient with the whole thing... I know money is tight but rushing through and making mistakes will just cause more delays later. Take your time and read everything carefully

Update on the Claimyr thing I mentioned earlier - I actually used them again last week when I had questions about my job search log requirements. Much easier than trying to get through to Washington ESD directly. Worth checking out if you run into any roadblocks.

Remember that you can also file by phone if you have issues with the website, but honestly the online system is usually faster and less frustrating than trying to get through on the phone lines.

Make sure you understand the difference between filing your initial claim and filing weekly claims. The initial claim establishes your benefit amount and eligibility. Then you have to file weekly claims every single week to actually receive payments.

Also heads up that your weekly benefit amount will be based on your earnings during your base period, which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you filed. So not necessarily your most recent pay.

Last thing - keep checking your account regularly after you file. Sometimes Washington ESD needs additional information and they'll send you messages through the online system. Don't ignore those or your claim could get delayed or denied.

Thanks everyone! This has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about getting started with the process now.