How to open new claim for unemployment - Washington ESD process help needed

You'll need to go to the Washington ESD website and create an account on their online system. Have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months ready. You'll also need your employer's information including their address and dates you worked there. The system will ask about your reason for separation - make sure you select 'layoff' or 'lack of work' since that's what happened to you.

Make sure you have your bank account information ready too for direct deposit setup. The website can be slow sometimes so be patient. Also write down your confirmation number after you submit - you'll need it later.

If you run into issues with the online system or need to speak with someone at Washington ESD, I recently discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com) which helps you get through to actual agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Really helpful when you can't get through on your own.

The Washington ESD online application is pretty straightforward but make sure you answer all questions accurately. They'll verify everything with your employer so don't try to fudge any details. Once you submit, you'll get a monetary determination letter showing your weekly benefit amount.

ugh the Washington ESD website is so confusing!! I tried filing last month and kept getting error messages. Finally had to call like 50 times to get through to someone who could help me.

One important thing - after you file your initial claim, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to continue receiving benefits. Don't forget to do this or you'll miss payments. The weekly claims ask about any work you did and any income you received.

Also be prepared for the job search requirements. Washington ESD requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of your activities. You'll need to register with WorkSource too.

The whole system is a nightmare honestly. I've been trying to get through to them for weeks about an issue with my claim and can never reach anyone. The hold times are insane.

Make sure you have all your wage information accurate. They'll check with your employers so if there are discrepancies it can delay your claim. I learned this the hard way.

The key is to be honest and complete in your application. Washington ESD will catch any inconsistencies and it's better to be upfront than have your claim delayed or denied later. Keep copies of everything you submit.

also make sure you certify your weekly claims on time every week or you'll lose benefits for that week. I missed one week and couldn't get it back

One more tip - if your claim goes into adjudication (which happens when they need to investigate something), don't panic. It's normal but can take several weeks. You'll get a letter explaining what they need from you.

Just be patient with the whole process. It's not as complicated as it seems once you get started. The Washington ESD website has pretty good instructions if you follow them step by step.

And remember, if you get stuck at any point and need to talk to someone at Washington ESD, don't waste hours on hold. Services like Claimyr can save you a lot of time and frustration when you need actual help.

Good luck with your claim! The first time is always a bit nerve-wracking but once you get through the initial filing it gets easier. Make sure to keep checking your account regularly for any updates or requests for information.

Yeah the waiting is the worst part. Even after you file everything correctly it takes time for the money to start coming. Just be patient and keep filing those weekly claims.

The system isn't perfect but it does work eventually. Just stay on top of everything and respond quickly if they ask for additional information.

Welcome to the unemployment system! It's not fun but thousands of people go through it successfully every week. You'll get through this.

just remember to keep looking for work while you're on benefits. they do check up on the job search requirements so don't slack off on that part

One final piece of advice - set up direct deposit when you file your claim. It's much faster than waiting for checks in the mail. The money usually hits your account within 1-2 business days after your weekly claim is processed.