How to file my weekly unemployment claim - Washington ESD system confusing me

Thanks! I found the SAW login but I'm still not seeing the weekly claim option. Is there a specific day of the week I need to file?

You can file starting Sunday for the previous week. So if it's Tuesday, you'd be filing for last week's claim period.

What kind of questions do they ask? I'm nervous about answering something wrong.

basic stuff like did you work any hours this week, did you look for jobs, were you available for work. just be honest

And make sure you document your job search activities! Washington ESD requires you to search for work and keep records.

This is really helpful! How many job search activities do I need to do each week?

For regular UI benefits, you need 3 job search activities per week. This can include applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records in case Washington ESD audits your claim.

Really? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days but can't get through. Does this actually work?

Yeah it worked for me! I was getting hung up on constantly trying to call the regular way. This helped me actually reach an agent who walked me through the weekly claim process.

Interesting, never heard of that service before. Might have to check it out myself since I can never get through on the phone either.

Oh no, what happens if you miss the deadline? How long do you have to file?

You have until Saturday night to file for the previous week. If you miss it, you have to call and explain why you were late - and they might not accept your reason.

This happened to my brother too. He had to file an appeal just to get one missed week back. The system is unforgiving.

That's a great idea about the reminder! I'm definitely going to do that.

Yes! I file mine every Sunday morning with my coffee. Makes it part of the routine.

Actually, I'd recommend taking the job search requirements seriously from day one. Washington ESD can audit at any time and if you can't provide documentation, they can create an overpayment.

fair point, better safe than sorry i guess

Yeah it's pretty confusing! I wish they made it more intuitive.

The whole Washington ESD system feels like it was designed in the 90s and never updated.

Good to know! I haven't worked yet but I might pick up some part-time hours soon.

Yeah, part-time work is allowed but they'll reduce your weekly benefit amount based on what you earn. There's a formula they use.

I think you can earn up to a certain amount before they start reducing benefits, but I'm not sure what the exact threshold is.

yeah that happened to me once, super annoying. i think there's a session timeout after like 20 minutes or something

I always make sure to file first thing in the morning when the system is less busy. Seems to work better than evenings.

I'm definitely considering that if I keep having problems. The online system is just so confusing.

I used Claimyr last month when I was having adjudication issues. It really does help you get through to an agent instead of sitting on hold forever.

That's smart! I didn't think about keeping records of my submissions.

Yes! I save screenshots of everything Washington ESD related. You never know when you might need proof of something.

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

You got this! We've all been there with the confusion at first.

Good point! I should double-check that my address and phone number are correct.

And check your spam folder regularly. Sometimes Washington ESD emails end up there.

Agreed! A simple walkthrough video would help so many people.

That would be amazing. The written instructions are pretty confusing.

Definitely! This community is so helpful. I was feeling really overwhelmed but now I know what to do.

That's what we're here for! Washington ESD can be frustrating but we're all in this together.