How to register for unemployment with Washington ESD - complete beginner help needed

Everything is online now through the Washington ESD website. You'll need to create an account on SecureAccess Washington (SAW) first, then apply for benefits. Have your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment history ready - you'll need employer names, addresses, and dates of employment for the last 18 months.

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic employer info?

Just the basic info is fine for the initial application. They'll request additional documents if needed during processing.

The process is pretty straightforward once you get started. Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'Apply for Benefits' link. You'll answer questions about your work history, reason for separation, and availability to work.

How long does the whole application take to fill out?

About 30-45 minutes if you have all your info ready. Don't rush through it - accuracy is important.

Word of advice - if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your application, calling can be a nightmare. I spent weeks trying to get through their phone lines. Recently found out about Claimyr.com which actually helps you get connected to ESD agents without waiting on hold forever. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Really? I was worried about not being able to reach anyone if I had questions.

I used Claimyr last month when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Actually got through to ESD in like 20 minutes instead of calling for hours.

Make sure you apply as soon as possible after your separation date. There's a one-week waiting period before benefits start, and delays in filing can affect when you receive your first payment. Also, be prepared to start filing weekly claims immediately after your application is approved.

What happens during the waiting period? Do I still need to do anything?

Yes, you still need to file your weekly claims during the waiting period and meet all job search requirements.

ugh the whole system is confusing when you're new to it. i remember being so stressed about messing something up on the application

That's exactly how I'm feeling right now!

It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first. Take your time with each section and read the help text if you're unsure about anything.

One thing they don't make clear is that you need to register with WorkSourceWA too for the job search requirements. It's a separate system but required for maintaining your benefits.

Is that something I do right away or after my claim is approved?

You can do it anytime but I'd recommend doing it within the first week of filing your claim to stay ahead of the requirements.

Update: I got through the application process! It was actually easier than I expected once I had all my employment info organized. Now I'm waiting for them to process it.

Great job! Processing usually takes a few days to a week for straightforward cases.

Congrats on getting it submitted. The hardest part is over.

Just a heads up - if your claim goes into adjudication for any reason, don't panic. It's pretty common and usually resolves within a few weeks. That's when having a way to contact ESD directly becomes really valuable.

What causes a claim to go into adjudication?

Lots of things - if there's any question about your separation reason, work availability, or if your former employer disputes the claim.

The key thing about Washington ESD is being consistent with your weekly claims and job search activities. Missing even one weekly claim can cause issues with your benefits.

How many job contacts do I need to make each week?

Currently it's 3 job search activities per week, but check the current requirements on the ESD website since they can change.

Pro tip: set up direct deposit right away in your account settings. Paper checks take forever and can get lost in the mail.

also make sure you keep records of everything - every application you submit, every contact you make with employers. ESD can ask for documentation at any time

Should I be keeping screenshots of job applications?

Screenshots, confirmation emails, anything that proves you made the contact. Better to have too much documentation than not enough.

The whole process seems overwhelming at first but it becomes routine pretty quickly. The weekly claims only take a few minutes once you get used to the system.

That's reassuring to hear. I was worried it would be complicated every week.

If you do run into issues and need to talk to ESD, seriously consider using Claimyr. I wasted so much time trying to call directly before I found that service. Made dealing with my adjudication issues so much easier.

How does Claimyr work exactly? Do they just call for you?

They handle the calling and waiting, then connect you when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

Remember that your benefit amount is based on your earnings in the base period, which is usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you filed. So if you file in January 2025, they'll look at your earnings from October 2023 through September 2024.

That's really specific - how do I know if I earned enough to qualify?

The system will calculate it automatically when you apply, but generally you need earnings in at least two quarters of your base period.

Make sure you're honest about everything on your application. Any discrepancies can cause major delays or even disqualification.

What if I'm not sure about exact dates from a previous job?

Do your best to be accurate. If you're off by a few days that's usually not a problem, but don't guess wildly.

The Washington ESD website has a lot of helpful resources and FAQs. I recommend reading through those before you start your application.

I'll definitely check those out. Thanks for all the help everyone!

good luck with your claim! the waiting is the hardest part but it does work out eventually for most people

Thank you! Feeling much more confident about the process now.

Final reminder - once you start receiving benefits, you'll need to continue filing weekly claims every week and meeting job search requirements until you return to work or your benefit year ends. Stay on top of it and you'll be fine.

Got it. I'll make sure to stay consistent with everything. Really appreciate all the detailed help!

Washington ESD has really improved their online system over the past few years. It's much more user-friendly than it used to be.

Agreed! Though the phone system still needs work, hence why services like Claimyr are so helpful.

Don't forget that unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld or you'll need to pay them when you file your tax return.

Oh I hadn't thought about taxes. I'll make sure to set that up.