How to get a hold of Washington ESD unemployment office - can't reach anyone!

The phone system is absolutely overwhelmed right now. I've found that calling exactly at 8:00 AM when they open gives you the best shot, but even then it's not guaranteed. Make sure you're calling the right number - the UI customer service line is different from the general inquiry line.

ugh same problem here, been trying for a week to get through about my job search verification. the hold music is burned into my brain at this point lol

I had this exact problem last month when my claim went into adjudication. Spent days trying to call with no luck. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that basically calls for you and gets you connected to an actual agent. Sounds too good to be true but it actually worked - got through to Washington ESD within like 20 minutes. They have a demo video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

Try calling the WorkSource offices instead - sometimes they can help with basic UI questions or at least point you in the right direction. Not all locations handle unemployment stuff but some do.

The whole system is a joke. I've been trying to reach them about an overpayment notice that makes no sense and it's been THREE WEEKS. How are we supposed to resolve issues if we can't even talk to anyone???

I've had success calling around 2-3 PM on Wednesdays specifically. Seems like there's less call volume then for some reason. Also make sure you're not calling during peak weekly claim filing times.

Have you tried using the online messaging system through your eServices account? I know you said no response but sometimes they answer those faster than phone calls.

This is exactly why I used that Claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier. Saved me literally hours of my life. The Washington ESD phone system is designed to discourage people from calling I swear.

Try calling the dedicated adjudication line if your issue is claim-specific - sometimes that has shorter wait times than the general customer service number.

the phone situation is insane right now. ive been calling about my standby benefits for my union job and cant get anywhere. might have to try that claimyr service people are talking about

I finally got through last week after trying for ages. The agent was super helpful once I reached them - resolved my job search requirement question in like 10 minutes. The hard part is just making contact.

If your claim is stuck in pending status, you might also try reaching out to your state representative's office. They sometimes have contacts at Washington ESD that can help expedite things.

Keep trying but also document everything - when you called, how long you waited, what happened. If you need to appeal or escalate later, having that record helps show you made good faith efforts to resolve it.

Update: I tried the Claimyr service and it actually worked! Got connected to a Washington ESD agent in about 30 minutes and got my weekly claim issue sorted out. Would definitely recommend if you're stuck like I was.

Just wanted to share another tip that worked for me - try calling around 4:30 PM on Fridays. I know it sounds random but I got through twice using this timing. I think a lot of people assume Friday afternoons are bad so there's actually less competition for the phone lines. Also, if you do get through to someone, be super polite and ask if there's a better time/number to call for future issues. Some agents will give you insider tips on when call volume is lighter. Hang in there everyone - the system is broken but don't give up!