How to register for unemployment benefits - Washington ESD first time application

Thanks! What kind of info do I need to have ready? I'm worried about messing something up.

You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, employment history for the last 18 months with dates and addresses, and your most recent pay stub. Also bank info if you want direct deposit.

Ok good to know I don't have to do everything at once. This whole system is overwhelming.

yeah the worksource thing confused me too when i first applied, you get like 21 days or something to register there

Never heard of that before - does it actually work? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days about my claim status.

Yeah it worked for me. Basically automates the calling process so you don't have to sit there hitting redial constantly. Got through to an actual person in like 20 minutes.

That might be helpful if I run into issues with my application. How much does it cost?

I was definitely laid off due to company downsizing, have the paperwork to prove it. Should I upload that somewhere?

Keep all that documentation but you usually don't need to upload it during the initial application. Washington ESD will request it if needed during their review process.

It's definitely not the most user-friendly but once you find the 'Apply for Benefits' button it's pretty straightforward. They've updated it a bit since the pandemic.

Still better than calling though - I tried calling first and gave up after 2 hours on hold.

Weekly claims? So I have to do something every single week?

Yep, usually Sunday through Tuesday you can file your weekly claim online. It's pretty quick - just questions about whether you worked, looked for jobs, etc.

And you have to do the job search activities too - at least 3 per week once you're required to start looking for work.

That's reassuring, I was worried it would take all day

How long before I actually get money if I'm approved?

Usually 2-3 weeks after approval if there are no issues. There's a one-week waiting period where you don't get paid, but you still have to file that first weekly claim.

Mine took 4 weeks because they had to do some kind of verification with my old employer. Be patient.

That's exactly when I used Claimyr to get through to someone. They were able to check my claim status and tell me it was still in review but moving forward. Sometimes you just need that peace of mind.

3 weeks isn't unusual especially if they're doing employer verification. Frustrating but normal.

Good point, I just moved last month so I need to double check that

What's adjudication? That sounds scary.

It just means they need to investigate something about your claim - usually verifying details with your employer or reviewing the reason you became unemployed. It's routine for many claims.

Mine went to adjudication because my employer initially said I quit when I was actually laid off. Took an extra 3 weeks but got resolved once Washington ESD talked to HR directly.

Yeah that's what everyone's telling me - apply now even if I think I might find something soon

Exactly, you can always stop claiming if you find work, but you can't backdate your application if you wait too long.

That's frustrating but unfortunately not uncommon. The system definitely has its problems but it's still worth applying.

Thanks for all the encouragement everyone, this thread has been super helpful!

Didn't know there was an app, I'll look for that

the app is ok but sometimes glitchy, i usually just use the website on my phone browser

That's exactly why services like Claimyr exist - the phone system is still pretty awful. Worth checking out if you need to actually talk to someone.

I've heard mixed things about third party services but honestly if it works it might be worth it to avoid the phone frustration.

What kind of documents should I keep handy besides pay stubs?

Keep your termination letter, any severance paperwork, W-2s from last year, and a record of all your job applications once you start your work search requirement.

Thanks! Feeling much better about it after reading everyone's advice here.