How to reapply for unemployment benefits - Washington ESD process confused

So I can't just reactivate my old claim? That seems like a lot of extra work for something that should be simple.

Nope, once your benefit year expires (52 weeks from when you first filed), you have to start fresh. It's annoying but that's how Washington ESD does it.

18 months? I thought it was just the last year. Good thing you mentioned that!

Yeah they look at your base period which goes back further. Better to have too much info than not enough.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash waiting for benefits.

It was worth it for me to get answers instead of wasting more time calling. The video explains everything better than I can.

I might have to try that if I can't figure this out. The phone system is ridiculous.

Wait, so if my claim expired 3 weeks ago, I've already lost 3 weeks of benefits?

Unfortunately yes, unless you had some kind of valid reason for the delay. Washington ESD doesn't backdate new claims like they do for initial claims.

Because they need to recalculate your benefit amount based on recent wages and verify you're still eligible. It's not just about extending time.

still seems like they could streamline it somehow. everything with unemployment is needlessly complicated

Do I need to show proof of job searches for the weeks my claim was expired?

It's good to have documentation ready. They may ask about your job search efforts during the gap period.

My SecureAccess Washington login still works, is that different from what you're talking about?

SAW login is different from your ESD PIN. You'll find out when you try to file the new claim if you need a new PIN.

How long does the application usually take to complete?

Maybe 30-45 minutes if you have everything ready. Longer if you have to look up employer information.

Yes, they'll evaluate your most recent separation. If you were fired for misconduct, it could affect your eligibility even if your previous claim was for a layoff.

That's what I was worried about. Guess I'll need to be prepared to explain the situation.

I've heard good things about that service from other people too. Might be worth it just for the peace of mind.

I was skeptical at first but after spending literally hours on hold with no success, I tried it and got through to someone in like 10 minutes. Pretty amazing actually.

Usually 2-3 weeks for processing, plus you'll have a waiting week. So figure at least 3-4 weeks before you see money.

great, so basically a month without income. this system is broken

Good point, I moved since my last claim. Need to update that.

I did some gig work for like 2 weeks. Do I need to report that?

Yes, report all work. They'll find out anyway and it's better to be upfront about it.

They're still doing them, mostly online now. You'll probably get assigned to one after your claim is approved.

Thanks, just wanted to be prepared for that requirement again.

Minor mistakes can usually be corrected by calling ESD, but major errors might require a new application. Better to double-check everything before submitting.

That's what I figured. I'll be extra careful with the dates and employer info.

Include it. They use that to link your claims in their system even though this is a new benefit year.

Perfect, thanks. Almost done with the application now.

Thanks for all the help everyone. This thread has been way more helpful than the ESD website.

Already doing that! Learned that lesson the hard way last time.

Smart! Having documentation saved me when they lost my initial application somehow.

Bookmarking this thread. Sounds like I might need that service when my claim runs out next month.

Yeah, definitely worth knowing about ahead of time. Wish I had found it sooner.

Awesome! Make sure you file your weekly claims even while it's processing.

Will do. Fingers crossed it goes smoothly from here.