How to go on unemployment in Washington - need help starting the process

Thanks! Do I need pay stubs or will they get that info from my employer directly?

They'll verify with your employer, but having your last pay stub handy can help you fill out the application more accurately.

Good tip about the email! I'll make sure to use my main one, not my work email obviously.

That sounds useful! Did it cost a lot to use their service?

It was worth it for me since I was getting nowhere calling on my own. Much better than spending hours on hold just to get disconnected.

I used them too when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Really helped me understand what was happening with my case.

I was permanently laid off so I think regular UI is what I need. Is there a difference in how much you get paid?

The weekly benefit amount is calculated the same way, but standby has different job search requirements. Since you're permanently laid off, definitely go with regular UI.

I know it's frustrating but they need that info to calculate your benefits and verify your work history. Take your time gathering everything first.

yeah i guess... just stressed about money and want to get this done

When do I file my first weekly claim? Right away or do I wait for something?

Wait for your claim to be processed and approved first. Washington ESD will send you instructions on when to start filing weekly claims.

This is super important! I made the mistake of not filing for two weeks because I thought I had to wait longer.

What kind of questions would cause that? I was laid off due to budget cuts, nothing I did wrong.

Budget cuts should be straightforward. Adjudication usually happens with firing for cause, quitting, or if there are discrepancies in the info you provide.

Do I need to start job searching immediately or can I wait until my claim is approved?

Start immediately. The job search requirement begins with your first weekly claim, so you'll need to have activities to report.

You can use WorkSourceWA.com to search and it automatically logs your activities for you. Makes the whole process easier.

Good to know there are options for getting help. The whole system seems pretty overwhelming.

It really is at first, but once you get through the initial application it becomes more routine. The weekly claims are pretty quick.

How long did it take for your first payment to come through?

About 3 weeks for me, but I didn't have any complications. Some people get paid faster, some take longer if there are issues.

Pending is totally normal! That just means they received your application and are processing it. Should change to approved or adjudication within a few days.

phew ok good. this whole thing is giving me anxiety

What if I pick up like a one-day gig or something? Do I still need to report that?

Yes, report ALL income no matter how small. Better to be over-cautious than risk an overpayment situation later.

This is so important! I got hit with an overpayment because I didn't report some cash work I did. Not worth the hassle.

Any specific organizational tips? I'm not naturally the most organized person.

I keep a simple folder with all my unemployment paperwork and set phone reminders for my weekly claim days. Also screenshot confirmation pages.

Good to know! I'll bookmark that troubleshooting tip.

How exactly does that work? Do they just call for you or what?

They have a system that gets you connected with actual Washington ESD agents without the typical hold time nightmare. Check their demo video to see how it works.

Wait what? So I don't get paid for the first week at all?

Exactly. The first week serves as a waiting period. You still need to file the weekly claim, you just won't get paid for that specific week.

Yeah this caught me off guard too when I first applied. Just budget for it.

Can I change my payment method later if I need to?

Yes, you can update your banking info through your online account, but it might delay your next payment while they process the change.

That's good to know. What makes work 'suitable' exactly?

Generally it means work that matches your skills and pays at least 70% of your previous wage, among other factors. There are detailed guidelines on the Washington ESD website.

This saved me when someone tried to get me to take a minimum wage job way below my experience level. Know your rights!

Thanks everyone! This has been incredibly helpful. Feeling much more confident about starting the process now.

You're welcome! This forum is great for unemployment questions so don't hesitate to ask if other issues come up.