How to put in for unemployment benefits with Washington ESD - need help with application process

Thank you! Do I need to wait a certain amount of time after being laid off before I can apply?

No, you should apply as soon as possible after your last day of work. There's a waiting week but you still need to file right away to get the process started.

What kind of job search requirements are there? I thought I had some time to look around.

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. This starts immediately, even during your waiting week. You can do this through WorkSource WA or on your own.

The job search thing caught me off guard too when I first filed. Make sure you document everything properly or they can deny your benefits.

Really? How does that work exactly? I'm already worried about getting help if I run into problems.

They basically call for you and get you connected to a real Washington ESD agent. Way better than sitting on hold for hours just to get hung up on.

Is this some kind of scam? Sounds too good to be true.

No it's legit, I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Much easier than the endless phone tag with ESD.

What's adjudication? Should I be worried about that happening to my claim?

Adjudication happens when there's an issue with your claim that needs review. Could be anything from employment verification to eligibility questions. Most claims go through without problems.

mine was stuck because my employer disputed something. nightmare to deal with

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

You'll get instructions after your initial claim is submitted. Usually you can start filing weekly claims the week after you file your initial claim. Don't skip any weeks!

Good tip! What kind of documentation did they ask for later?

They wanted verification of my wages and confirmation of my last day worked. Having everything ready made the process much smoother.

Yeah I'm already confused by some of the terminology. What's a monetary determination?

That's the document that tells you how much you'll receive in weekly benefits and for how long. You'll get this after your claim is processed and approved.

Exactly, and it's based on your wages from the past year. Take time to review it carefully when you get it.

You can call but the wait times are usually really long. The online system is actually easier once you get started. Maybe have someone help you with the initial application?

I might have to do that. The online form looks overwhelming with all those questions.

That's another reason I liked using Claimyr - they can help you get through to someone who can assist with filing over the phone if needed.

What if I'm not sure exactly what my employer will report? We had some disagreements before I was laid off.

Just stick to the facts about your termination. If there are disputes, that's what the adjudication process is for. Being honest upfront is always better than having to explain inconsistencies later.

I was definitely laid off due to budget cuts, so that should be straightforward at least.

yeah that's usually the easiest situation for getting approved. just make sure your employer reports it the same way

What if I do some small contract work while looking for a full-time job? Do I need to report that too?

Yes, absolutely. Any income needs to be reported on your weekly claims. Depending on how much you earn, it might reduce your benefits for that week but you still need to report it.

This tripped me up early on. Made $50 helping a friend with some computer work and didn't think to report it. Got a notice later asking about unreported income.

That's not very encouraging! I'm already stressed enough about being unemployed.

Don't let that discourage you. Yes, there's paperwork and requirements, but thousands of people successfully file for unemployment every week. Just take it step by step.

you're right, i was just venting. it does work out in the end, just be patient with the process

That's reassuring! I was worried one small mistake would ruin everything.

Nope, they're used to people making small errors. As long as you're honest and responsive to any requests for information, you'll be fine.

It's required for most people receiving unemployment benefits. You need to register with WorkSource WA and maintain an active job search unless you're in certain exempt categories.

Thanks, wasn't sure if that was just a suggestion or an actual requirement.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money being unemployed.

I don't want to quote specific prices, but it was worth it for me to avoid the hassle of endless phone calls. You can check their website for current pricing.

That's great to hear! Did you have any issues with the job search requirements?

Not really, I just made sure to apply to at least 3 jobs every week and kept good records. The WorkSource website makes it pretty easy to track your applications.

Good thinking! I'll make sure to do that when I file my claim tomorrow.

Smart plan. Also don't wait too long - benefits are calculated from when you file, not from when you were laid off, so filing quickly is important.

Agreed! Feeling much more confident about filing my claim now. Really appreciate everyone taking the time to explain everything.

Happy to help! Good luck with your claim and hope you find new employment soon.

I'll definitely keep that in mind if I run into any problems. Hopefully my claim goes smoothly but it's good to know there are options.

Exactly, just nice to have a backup plan if the regular channels don't work out.

Thank you so much everyone! Going to file my initial claim first thing tomorrow morning. This community has been incredibly helpful.

You've got this! Feel free to come back if you have any other questions during the process.