How to file claim for unemployment with Washington ESD - complete beginner needs help

Thank you so much! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic employment info?

Basic employment info is usually enough for the initial filing, but keep your pay stubs handy in case Washington ESD needs them later for verification.

Wait so I file the initial claim then immediately start filing weekly claims? Or do I wait?

You can start filing weekly claims right away, but the first week is unpaid. It's called the waiting week. Just keep filing every week consistently - that's the most important thing.

What if you can't get through on the phone to Washington ESD when you have questions? I've been trying to call for days about my claim status.

Yeah the phone lines are brutal. I actually found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to an actual agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Saved me hours of calling.

That's reassuring to hear! Did you run into any problems during the application process?

Not really, just make sure your employer information is accurate. I had to go back and fix my previous employer's address which delayed my claim a bit.

Same thing happened to me! Double check all the employer details before submitting.

I understand the frustration, but weekly claims are just your way of certifying each week that you're still unemployed and looking for work. It's how they know to send you your benefit payment.

I GET THAT NOW but they could explain it better on their website instead of using all this bureaucratic language

honestly yeah the website could be way clearer about what everything means

Wait, I have to prove I'm looking for jobs? How do they check that?

Yes, it's a federal requirement. They typically don't check unless there's a reason to, but you need to keep records of where you applied, what positions, dates, and contact information. WorkSourceWA.gov is the official site they recommend for tracking.

I've been on unemployment for 8 months and they've never asked to see my job search log, but I keep detailed records just in case.

What happens if I accidentally miss filing a weekly claim?

You lose that week's benefits completely. Washington ESD doesn't allow backdating of weekly claims except in very rare circumstances with documented good cause.

Adjudication happens when there's a question about your eligibility, usually related to why you left your job or if there are conflicting reports. It can take several weeks unfortunately.

This is so frustrating. I need to know what's holding it up but I can't reach anyone.

I used Claimyr when I was stuck in adjudication hell. They got me through to someone who explained the issue and what documentation I needed to provide. Worth checking out their website.

Good point! I'll file mine tomorrow morning then.

yeah that's smart, gives you the whole week to deal with any issues that come up

My employer said they might call me back in a few weeks. Does that mean I should apply for standby instead?

If your employer gave you a specific recall date within 4 weeks, you can apply for standby. Otherwise, file regular unemployment and you can always switch if you get recalled.

I was on standby for 6 weeks before my employer finally admitted they weren't bringing people back. Had to switch to regular UI and restart my job search requirements.

That's encouraging to hear! How long did it take for your first payment to come through?

About 2 weeks after filing, which included the waiting week. Some people get approved faster if their claim is straightforward.

Yes, this is crucial! Any work, even a few hours, must be reported. Washington ESD can reduce your benefits for that week based on earnings, but not reporting it can be considered fraud.

What if you volunteer somewhere? Do you have to report volunteer hours?

No, volunteer work doesn't need to be reported as long as you're not receiving any compensation or benefits.

This will likely trigger an adjudication process where Washington ESD investigates the circumstances of your separation. Make sure you have any documentation showing you were laid off, not that you quit voluntarily.

I have the layoff notice email but it's been 3 weeks and still no decision. This is really stressful.

Employer disputes can take forever to resolve. I had to wait 6 weeks for mine. If you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about the status, I'd recommend trying Claimyr - they specialize in getting through to the right department.

Generally you file in the state where you worked, but remote work situations can be tricky. If you physically worked from Washington, you'd likely file here. If you're unsure, Washington ESD can help determine which state has jurisdiction.

Thanks, I'll call them to clarify since it's a bit complicated.

Yes, unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld from your benefits (10% federal) or pay them when you file your tax return. Most people opt for withholding to avoid a big tax bill later.

Good to know! I'll set up the tax withholding when I file my claim.

Same here! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I'm going to file my claim first thing tomorrow morning.

Glad we could help! Remember, the key is to file as soon as possible and stay consistent with your weekly claims. You've got this!

Great advice! I'll definitely keep track of all my confirmation numbers.

Yeah, screenshot everything. The Washington ESD system can be glitchy and having proof of what you submitted is important.

It's so reassuring to hear from people who have been through this successfully. Thank you all for taking the time to help!

That's what these forums are for! We've all been there and it helps to pay it forward.

Several people have mentioned Claimyr now. I'll definitely keep that in mind if I need to reach someone at Washington ESD.

Yeah, their demo video really shows how it works - https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get things sorted out.

Thank you so much! I feel so much more prepared now. This community is amazing.