How to file a new unemployment claim with Washington ESD - complete beginner guide needed

You can file online through the Washington ESD website at esd.wa.gov. You'll need to create a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account first if you don't have one. Have your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready. The process takes about 30-45 minutes if you have all your info organized.

Make sure you file as soon as possible! Your claim starts the week you file, not when you lost your job. I made that mistake and lost a week of benefits.

The online application is pretty straightforward but if you run into issues contacting Washington ESD by phone, you might want to check out claimyr.com. They have a service that helps you get through to ESD agents when the phone lines are swamped. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. I used it last month when I couldn't get through after trying for days.

Here's what you need to know about the filing process: 1) Go to esd.wa.gov and click 'File a Claim' 2) Create your SAW account if needed 3) Answer all the questions honestly about your work history 4) You'll get a determination letter in 1-2 weeks 5) Start filing weekly claims the Sunday after you file your initial claim. Don't skip any weeks even if your claim is still processing!

ugh the washington esd website is so confusing i tried to file last week and got lost halfway through. why cant they make it simpler??

One important thing - make sure you have the correct reason for separation. If you were laid off due to lack of work, that's different from being fired for misconduct. Getting this wrong can delay your claim or even cause a disqualification.

I filed my claim 2 weeks ago and it's still under adjudication. Is this normal? I'm getting really anxious about when I'll actually see any money.

Don't forget you might be eligible for job training programs through WorkSource too. They can help with resume writing and job search while you're collecting benefits.

Make sure your employer didn't contest your claim. Sometimes they fight unemployment claims even for legitimate layoffs. You'll get a notice if they do.

The whole system is a nightmare. I've been trying to get through to ESD for 3 weeks about my claim and can never reach anyone. The phone system just hangs up on you after being on hold forever.

Quick tip - when you're filling out the application, save your progress frequently. I lost all my info once when the website timed out and had to start over.

You'll also need to set up direct deposit for your benefits. Have your bank account and routing number ready. Getting payments by debit card takes longer.

I remember being so confused about the waiting week thing. Washington doesn't have a waiting week anymore so you can get paid for your first week if you're eligible.

The most important thing is to be completely honest on your application. Any false information can disqualify you and you might have to pay back benefits.

Does anyone know if you can file if you're getting severance pay? I'm getting 4 weeks severance but I'm not sure if that affects my claim.

Just wanted to add that if you worked in multiple states, you might need to file in the state where you worked most recently. But since you're in Washington, you should be fine filing with Washington ESD.

The benefit calculator on the ESD website can give you an estimate of how much you might receive. It's not exact but gives you an idea of what to expect.

I had a great experience with Washington ESD customer service when I used Claimyr to get through. The agent was really helpful and walked me through everything I needed to know about maintaining my claim.

Make sure you keep records of everything - your application, any correspondence from ESD, job search activities. You might need them later if there are any issues with your claim.

One last thing - don't be discouraged if the process seems overwhelming at first. Thousands of people go through this every week and most claims get approved without major issues. You'll get through it!

Just wanted to add one more practical tip - when you're getting ready to file, make sure you have a stable internet connection and set aside at least an hour when you won't be interrupted. I made the mistake of trying to rush through it during my lunch break and the session timed out twice. Also, if you get stuck on any question, there are usually little help icons (?) next to each field that explain what they're looking for. The whole process is much smoother when you're not stressed about time. Good luck with your claim!

Don't forget to gather your employment documents before you start filing! I just went through this process last month and having everything organized made such a difference. You'll want your last few pay stubs, your termination letter or layoff notice, and employment information for any jobs you've held in the past 18 months (employer names, addresses, phone numbers, dates worked, and gross wages earned). Also write down your direct supervisor's name and the HR contact info if you have it. I created a simple list beforehand and it saved me from having to pause mid-application to hunt down information. The online system will walk you through each step, but being prepared definitely reduces stress. Since you mentioned bills are due soon, definitely file as soon as you can - even if your claim takes time to process, the effective date starts when you file, not when it gets approved.