How to make a new unemployment claim with Washington ESD - step by step process?

First thing - don't panic! Filing a new claim with Washington ESD isn't too complicated once you know the steps. You'll need to go to esd.wa.gov and create an account if you don't have one. Have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready. The system will walk you through each step.

Make sure you file as soon as possible! Your benefit year starts the week you file, not when you lost your job. I made the mistake of waiting a week and lost that money. Also, you'll need to register with WorkSource Washington as part of the process.

I struggled with this too when I first filed. The Washington ESD phone system is absolutely horrible - I spent hours trying to get through when I had questions. Someone on here mentioned Claimyr (claimyr.com) which actually helped me get connected to an agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much frustration!

Here's the basic process: 1) Go to esd.wa.gov and click 'Apply for Benefits' 2) Create your SecureAccess Washington account 3) Fill out the application with your work history 4) Submit it 5) Wait for your monetary determination letter 6) Start filing weekly claims. The whole initial application takes about 30-45 minutes if you have all your info ready.

ugh the washington esd website is such a mess. i tried filing last month and it kept timing out. ended up having to start over like 3 times. make sure you save your work as you go!!

One important thing - make sure you understand the difference between filing your initial claim and filing weekly claims. The initial claim establishes your benefit amount and eligibility. Then you have to file weekly claims every week to actually get paid. Don't miss filing your weeklies or you'll lose those weeks!

I actually used Claimyr when I had issues with my claim getting stuck in adjudication. It really did help me get through to someone at Washington ESD who could explain what was happening. The phone system is just impossible otherwise.

Also heads up - Washington ESD has job search requirements that kick in after a few weeks. You'll need to do 3 job search activities per week and log them in your WorkSource account. Don't ignore this or they'll stop your benefits!

just a heads up that if you quit your job instead of getting laid off, you might not qualify for benefits. washington esd is pretty strict about that. they'll investigate why you left.

Don't forget to have your bank account information ready for direct deposit setup. It's much faster than waiting for paper checks. You'll also need to choose your PIN during the application process - make sure it's something you'll remember!

I'm going through this process right now too and it's been a nightmare. Filed two weeks ago and still haven't heard anything back. No idea if my claim is even processing or if there's a problem.

Make sure you're honest about everything on your application. If they find out you lied about anything, even small details, they can deny your claim and make you pay back benefits. It's not worth the risk.

also make sure you meet the wage requirements. you need to have earned a certain amount in your base period or you won't qualify. the system will calculate this automatically but good to know ahead of time

One more tip - after you file your initial claim, you should get a monetary determination letter within about a week. This tells you your weekly benefit amount and how many weeks you're eligible for. Keep this letter safe!

honestly the hardest part for me was just getting started. once you actually begin the application it's not that bad. just overwhelming at first because there's so much information

Just to echo what others said about Claimyr - I was skeptical at first but it really did work. Got me connected to an actual person at Washington ESD who could answer my questions. The regular phone system is just useless.

Last thing - don't forget to file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still processing. You can backdate them if needed, but it's easier to just stay on top of it from the beginning.

good luck with your claim! the whole process is stressful but you'll get through it. just take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to ask for help if you get stuck

Oh and one final tip - if you have any military service, make sure to mention that on your application. There are sometimes special provisions for veterans that could affect your benefits.

seriously though, file TODAY if you can. every day you wait is money you're potentially losing. the process isn't as scary as it seems once you start

Just wanted to add - make sure you have a quiet space and stable internet connection when you file. The application can take 30-45 minutes and you don't want to get kicked out halfway through due to connectivity issues. Also, try to file during off-peak hours (early morning or evening) when their servers are less likely to be overloaded. I learned this the hard way after getting timed out twice during busy afternoon hours!

I went through this exact same process about 6 months ago and I totally understand how overwhelming it feels! Here's what I wish someone had told me upfront: gather ALL your employment info before you even start the application - employer names, addresses, dates of employment, wages, and reason for leaving for the past 18 months. Having everything organized in front of you makes the process so much smoother. Also, don't stress too much about getting every single detail perfect - you can always provide clarifications later if needed. The most important thing is just getting that initial claim filed ASAP since your benefit week starts when you file, not when you lost your job. You've got this!