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

Thanks! Do I need pay stubs or will they verify my wages some other way?

Washington ESD gets your wage info directly from employers through quarterly reports, so you don't need pay stubs for the initial application. Just have accurate dates and employer info.

What's adjudication? That sounds scary.

It's just when they need to investigate the circumstances of your job separation to make sure you qualify. Can take a few weeks but don't panic if it happens.

Few weeks is optimistic lol. Mine took 6 weeks and I had to call them repeatedly to get any updates.

Is that legit? Never heard of using a service to call unemployment for you.

Yeah it's real. They basically handle the calling and waiting part then connect you when an agent picks up. Was skeptical at first but it actually worked when nothing else did.

Interesting, might have to try that if I run into problems. The phone system is definitely frustrating.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

You need to make 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. Can be applications, networking, job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records in case they audit you.

Wait I thought it was 2 contacts per week? Or did that change recently?

It's been 3 contacts since 2021. Used to be 2 during the pandemic but they increased it back to 3.

Oh no, 3 weeks with no payment? How are you managing financially?

Barely honestly. Had to borrow money from family. The system is overwhelmed and understaffed.

That's rough. Have you tried contacting your state representative? Sometimes they can help push things along.

Do I have to register immediately or can I wait a few days?

I'd do it right away. They want you registered within a certain timeframe and it's better to be safe than sorry.

That's reassuring, thanks. Hoping mine goes smoothly too.

Lucky you. Mine got stuck in some kind of identity verification loop for weeks.

Oof that sucks. Did you eventually get it sorted out?

How do they calculate the actual dollar amount you get each week?

It's roughly 1/26th of your highest quarter wages, but there are caps. Maximum weekly benefit is around $1015 right now I think.

Yep that's about right. The exact formula is on the Washington ESD website if you want the details.

Good advice. Better to be denied honestly than get in trouble later.

This! I know someone who got caught lying about their reason for leaving and had to pay back thousands.

Good thinking. Hope I won't need to appeal but better to be prepared.

Exactly. I learned this the hard way when I had to fight a disqualification.

Appeals can take months so definitely keep good records from the start.

Actually PUA ended in 2021. Contractors and gig workers might still qualify for regular UI depending on how they were classified.

Oh right, thanks for the correction. Shows how confusing this stuff can be!

How much does something like that cost? Seems like you shouldn't have to pay extra just to reach unemployment.

I get the frustration but when you're stressed about benefits and can't reach anyone, sometimes it's worth it. Check their site for current info.

Yeah I tried calling earlier and just got a busy signal immediately.

Try calling right when they open at 8am or during lunch hours. Sometimes you can slip through.

Or use that Claimyr thing people mentioned above. Saved me so much frustration.

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

Right, the first week is a waiting week. You file the claim but don't get paid for that week. It's just how the system works.

Thanks for the encouragement. Feeling less overwhelmed after reading everyone's advice.

You've got this! The hardest part is just getting started. Once you file that initial claim you'll feel much better.

Great point, I'll definitely set up direct deposit when I file.

Yes! I waited weeks for my debit card to arrive. Direct deposit is much faster.

Agreed! This has been super helpful. Thanks everyone for taking the time to share your experiences.

Good luck with your claim! Hope it goes smoothly for you.

Thank you for saying that. I was feeling a bit embarrassed about the whole situation but you're right.

Absolutely. This is exactly what the safety net is for. Use it while you find your next opportunity.

Will do! Better safe than sorry with something this important.

Exactly. Technology fails sometimes and you want proof you did everything right.

Good to know. Hopefully I'll find something soon but I'll make sure to report it correctly.

Right. They have specific procedures for when you return to work. Don't wing it or you might create problems for yourself.