How to fill unemployment form - Washington ESD application confusing me

Thanks! I have most of those documents. Should I include part-time jobs too or just my main employer?

Include ALL employers from the last 18 months, even part-time or temporary work. Washington ESD needs the complete picture to calculate your benefits correctly.

What if I don't have pay stubs from a job from over a year ago? Will they reject my application?

No, they won't reject it, but try to be as accurate as possible. You can estimate dates if needed, but if Washington ESD needs verification later, they might ask for documentation during the adjudication process.

Oh no, that sounds frustrating. Did you eventually get it to work? I'm using Chrome, does the browser matter?

yeah chrome should be fine. just dont hit back button and clear your cache before starting if you have problems

That sounds helpful! Did they charge you for the service?

Yes there's a fee but honestly it was worth it to actually talk to someone who could explain the confusing parts of the application instead of guessing and potentially messing up my claim.

I've heard mixed things about services like that. Did you end up getting your benefits approved?

Yes, my claim was approved without any issues. The agent I spoke with helped me understand exactly what information to put in each section.

My company said it was a "reduction in force" - is that the same as being laid off?

Yes, reduction in force is a type of layoff. Put that exact phrase in the separation reason field. It shows it wasn't due to your job performance.

What do you mean? I have some childcare limitations, should I not mention those?

You should be honest about your availability, but make sure you're still available for a reasonable amount of work. Having some limitations is usually okay as long as you're genuinely seeking employment.

Good idea! Is there a PDF version available on the Washington ESD website?

I don't think there's an official PDF, but you can screenshot the pages or write down the questions. The important thing is being prepared with all your information.

How do I save a copy? Does the system email you a confirmation?

yeah you should get an email confirmation but also take screenshots of each page just in case

That's a relief! I was worried about trying to remember my exact wages from each job.

Exactly, they have access to all that wage data. Your job is just to give them accurate employer information so they can match it up.

Did that cause any delays in processing your claim?

Not really, they just contacted me during adjudication to clarify which location was correct for the wage records. Better to over-explain than leave out important details.

how does that work exactly? do they call you back or do you call them?

You submit your request through their website and they call you when they've got an agent on the line. No more sitting on hold for hours or getting disconnected.

Great job! Now make sure you file your weekly claims on time once your claim is processed. That's the next step in the process.

Congratulations! How long did they say it would take to process your initial claim?

They said 2-3 weeks for processing, but it could be longer if they need to verify anything with my employers.

how do you go back and correct things? through the same online portal?

You need to call Washington ESD directly to make corrections to your initial application. The online portal is mainly for weekly claims once your account is set up.

Good to know! I was worried that any delays would mean I did something wrong.

Adjudication is very common, especially if you were laid off or if there's any question about your separation reason. Just be patient and respond quickly if they request additional information.

How many job contacts do I need to make each week?

You need to make at least 3 job search activities each week, which can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking activities, or other approved activities. Keep detailed records of everything.

That's a good point about the weekly claims. The job search requirements can be confusing, and if you don't report them correctly you could lose benefits for that week.

Exactly! The initial application is just the first step. There's a lot to learn about maintaining your claim properly each week.

Thanks again everyone! I'll post an update when I hear back about my claim status.

Please do! And remember to file your weekly claims even if your initial claim is still being processed. You don't want to miss any weeks.

Definitely agree about not rushing! I almost made several mistakes because I was trying to fill it out too quickly.

yeah the system is not very user friendly but once you get used to it its not too bad. just save everything and keep good records

When do I start filing weekly claims? Right after I submit the application?

You'll get instructions about weekly claims after your initial application is processed. Washington ESD will send you information about when and how to file your first weekly claim.

Agreed! The application process is one of those things where having someone explain it makes all the difference.

That's exactly why services like Claimyr exist - sometimes you just need to talk to someone who understands the system instead of trying to figure it out on your own.