How to file an unemployment claim in Washington - confused about the process

You should file as soon as possible! Go to esd.wa.gov and click on 'File for Benefits' to start your initial claim. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment information for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked. The waiting week was eliminated during COVID so you should get paid for your first week if you're eligible.

make sure you file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still processing! I made that mistake and it delayed everything

The online system can be overwhelming at first. After you create your account on SecureAccess Washington (SAW), you'll answer questions about your work history, reason for separation, and availability to work. Be honest about everything - if they find out you weren't truthful it can disqualify you. Also make sure you're actively looking for work because you'll need to log job search activities.

Just went through this process myself last month. One thing that really helped was using Claimyr to get through to an actual Washington ESD representative when I had questions. The website is claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Way better than trying to call the regular number and getting busy signals for hours.

FILING IS THE EASY PART - GETTING APPROVED IS THE NIGHTMARE! My claim has been in adjudication for 2 months because my former employer is fighting it. Be prepared for delays and have backup plans for paying bills.

Pro tip: Screenshot everything! Save copies of your weekly claim confirmations, any correspondence from Washington ESD, and keep detailed records of your job search activities. The system can glitch and you might need proof later.

idk why everyone makes this sound so complicated, just go to the website and fill out the forms. took me like 20 minutes

Don't forget about the job search requirement! You need to be actively looking for work and available to accept suitable employment. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time, so keep detailed records of where you applied, when, and what type of positions.

My sister used that Claimyr service when her claim got stuck and she couldn't reach anyone at Washington ESD. She said it was worth it just to get answers instead of being frustrated for weeks. The regular phone lines are basically useless with how busy they are.

Also be aware that if you have any side income or part-time work while collecting unemployment, you MUST report it on your weekly claims. Even small amounts can affect your benefits, but you might still get partial payments. Being dishonest about income is considered fraud.

The whole system is designed to discourage people from filing. They make it as confusing and difficult as possible. But don't let that stop you - you paid into unemployment insurance through your paychecks so you've earned these benefits.

One more thing - make sure your contact information is up to date in your account. Washington ESD will send important notices by mail and email, and if they can't reach you it can cause delays or even disqualify your claim. Check your account regularly for any action items that need your response.

Just want to echo what others said about Claimyr - I used it when I couldn't figure out why my payments stopped. Turns out there was an issue with my job search documentation that I never would have known about if I hadn't been able to speak with someone. Sometimes you really do need to talk to a human to sort things out.

Remember that your weekly claim certification is basically you swearing under penalty of perjury that all your answers are true. Take it seriously and answer honestly. The consequences for unemployment fraud can be severe including having to pay back benefits plus penalties.

Good luck with your claim! The process seems overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine of filing weekly it becomes second nature. Just stay on top of the job search requirements and keep good records of everything.