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

Thanks! I see the eServices section now. Do I need to file every single week even if I didn't work at all?

Yes, you must file every week to maintain your claim, even if you didn't work. Just answer 'no' to the work questions but still submit the weekly claim.

Good point about the URL - I want to make sure I'm on the official Washington ESD site.

Yeah there's fake unemployment sites out there trying to steal your info, always double check the URL

Interesting, I've been trying to call Washington ESD but always get busy signals or get disconnected. How does this work exactly?

It basically keeps calling for you and connects you when an agent becomes available. Saves you from sitting on hold for hours or getting hung up on.

That actually sounds useful, the phone system at Washington ESD is terrible. I've wasted so many hours trying to get through.

What happens if I file late? Will my claim get denied?

You might get a warning or have to explain why you filed late, but usually they'll still process it if it's just a day or two. Don't make it a habit though.

Right?? The whole system feels like it was designed in 1995 and never updated.

At least I'm not the only one who finds it confusing!

How do they find out about unreported work? I did some gig work last week and wasn't sure if I needed to report it.

They cross-reference with tax records and employer reports. Always report any income, even cash payments or gig work. It's better to be honest and possibly get reduced benefits than face an overpayment later.

This is so important - I know someone who had to pay back thousands because they didn't report some side work properly.

Yes, Washington ESD requires you to keep a detailed job search log. You need to show you're making at least 3 job search activities per week. Keep records of applications, networking contacts, job fairs, etc.

ok thanks, i wasnt sure how detailed to be with that part

How much does something like that cost? Seems like we shouldn't have to pay extra just to reach our own state unemployment office.

I hear you on that frustration, but honestly it's worth it when you consider how much time you save not sitting on hold. The peace of mind of actually being able to talk to someone when you have questions is valuable.

Really? I'll try that next time. The desktop version has been really slow for me.

yeah the mobile site is definitely less buggy in my experience too

Good tip! I'll make sure to save proof that I filed.

Yes, always keep records. The confirmation number is especially important if you need to prove you filed on time.

That's confusing! So I'm always filing for the week that just ended, not the current week?

Exactly! You file for completed weeks, not the week you're currently in.

Yes, they do maintenance on weekends sometimes. That's why I always try to file by Friday if possible.

good to know its not just me having issues

I've tried calling before but could never get through. Maybe I should look into that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier.

I used Claimyr last month when I had adjudication issues and it definitely helped me get connected to an actual person at Washington ESD. Worth checking out if you're stuck.

Each separate application counts as one activity, even if it's the same company. But make sure they're actually different positions, not just resubmitting the same application.

ok good to know, i applied for 3 different jobs at amazon so those should all count

That's a great idea! I should set up a reminder on my phone.

yeah i set a recurring calendar reminder so i dont miss it

They should send a confirmation email to the address on file. Check your spam folder, and make sure your email address is correct in your SAW account.

I'll check my spam folder, thanks. I was worried my claims weren't going through properly.

The system usually catches duplicate filings and will only process one. You might get a message about it, but it shouldn't affect your benefits.

Ok that's reassuring, I was worried I messed something up.

Agreed! At least we can help each other figure it out.

Definitely, this community is great for getting real answers about Washington ESD issues.

That's really helpful to know! I'm definitely going to check out their website and that demo video you mentioned.

I've been hesitant to try services like that but if it actually works it might be worth it. The regular phone system is basically unusable.

Glad we could help! Remember to keep good records of your job search activities too.

Great job figuring it out! It gets easier once you do it a few times.