How to file for unemployment benefits in Washington - step by step process?

Do I need exact dates or just months? I worked at a few different places and don't remember exact start/end dates.

Approximate dates are okay, but try to be as accurate as possible. Washington ESD will verify with your employers anyway.

Oh no, I'm already 4 days late! Will I lose money?

You can still apply retroactively for the week you lost your job, but you need to do it ASAP. Don't wait any longer.

2-3 weeks?? I need money now to pay rent. Is there any way to speed this up?

Unfortunately the waiting period is standard. You can try calling Washington ESD but good luck getting through. I've been trying for weeks about my own claim issues.

Actually, there's a service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. I found it at claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. They basically handle the calling and waiting for you.

How do I file weekly claims if my account isn't set up yet?

Once you submit your initial application, you can log into your account and file weekly claims. Do it every Sunday for the previous week.

This is exactly what I'm worried about. How are people supposed to survive while waiting?

I get the frustration but complaining doesn't help. The system is overwhelmed but it does work eventually. Focus on getting your application in correctly.

What if I was fired vs laid off? Does that matter?

Yes, it matters a lot. If you were fired for misconduct you might not qualify. If you were laid off due to lack of work, you should be fine. Be honest about the reason.

I was laid off due to company downsizing, so I think I'm okay there.

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

It's usually 3 job search activities per week. Can be applications, networking, interviews, job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. They specialize in getting through to Washington ESD when the lines are jammed. Saved me hours of frustration.

Is it legit though? Sounds too good to be true.

Yeah it's real. They don't ask for your personal info or anything sketchy. Just helps you get through the phone system.

But you just said calling is impossible! How am I supposed to ask questions?

Fair point. The online help section is actually pretty good, or you can try early morning calls around 7:30 AM when they open.

6 weeks?! How did you survive that long without income?

credit cards and borrowing from family. not ideal but you do what you have to do

What kind of issues should I watch out for?

Identity verification, wage disputes, job separation issues. Having your paperwork ready makes everything faster.

I wouldn't lie but what if I genuinely can't remember something accurately?

Then estimate as best you can and note that it's an estimate. Honesty is always better than guessing wrong.

What's a waiting week?

Used to be you had to wait one week before getting benefits. Now you get paid starting from your first eligible week.

This is confusing. Do I file weekly claims before my initial claim is approved?

Yes! You file weekly claims while your initial claim is being processed. If you don't file for a week, you can't get paid for that week later.

Any other tips you wish someone had told you the first time?

keep copies of everything and be patient. the system works but it takes time

Appeal what? I thought if you qualify you just get benefits.

Sometimes claims get denied for various reasons. Having documentation helps if you need to challenge the decision.

I'll definitely check that out if I run into problems. Thanks for the tip!

Used Claimyr last month and finally got through to an agent after weeks of trying on my own. Worth it.

Is applying by phone any faster than online?

Not really, but it's an option if you're having technical issues with the website.

Can I change to direct deposit later if I forget?

Yes, you can change payment method in your online account after your claim is processed.

Thanks everyone for all the help. I feel much more confident about filing now.

Good luck! Come back and let us know how it goes.

That's good to know. I'm hoping to find something soon but it's tough out there.

Yeah the job market is rough. Unemployment benefits will help bridge the gap while you search.