How to sign up for unemployment benefits in Washington state - complete process?

Thanks! Do I need pay stubs or just the basic employment info?

Just the basic info for the initial application. Washington ESD will verify everything with your employers directly.

How long does processing usually take? I'm worried about how I'm going to pay rent.

It varies but usually 2-3 weeks if there are no issues with your claim. Sometimes longer if they need to verify something with your employer.

That sounds too good to be true. How does it actually work?

They basically handle all the calling and waiting for you, then patch you through when they get an agent on the line. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

I've heard of Claimyr but wasn't sure if it was legit. Good to know it actually works.

What happens if I miss filing a weekly claim?

You can potentially lose benefits for that week. Washington ESD might allow you to file late in some circumstances, but it's better to never miss the deadline.

I agree it's overwhelming at first, but once you get through the initial setup it becomes routine.

i guess but still seems like they could make it easier

You need to be able and available for work immediately. The job search requirement is typically 3 job search activities per week, and you need to keep a log of your search activities.

What counts as a job search activity?

Applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, interviews, contacting employers directly. There's a full list on the Washington ESD website.

What kind of mistake? I want to make sure I don't do the same thing.

I put the wrong end date for one of my jobs - off by like 2 weeks. Seems minor but it flagged my claim for review.

How do you know if your claim is in adjudication?

You'll see it in your online account dashboard. It will show 'adjudication in progress' or something similar.

Mine was in adjudication for a month because my previous employer disputed my reason for leaving. Eventually got resolved but it was stressful.

Regular unemployment is for people who are permanently separated from their job. Standby is for temporary layoffs where you expect to be called back to work within a specific timeframe.

Got it, thanks. I think mine would be regular since they eliminated my position entirely.

Good tip, I'll keep that in mind.

Two weeks is still within normal processing time, especially if it's your first claim. Keep filing your weekly claims and check your online account for any updates or requests for additional information.

If you need to check on your claim status and can't get through on the phone, that's another situation where Claimyr really helps. Much easier than trying to reach Washington ESD directly.

Really? I didn't know unemployment was taxable.

Yes, unemployment benefits are considered taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld from your weekly benefits or pay them when you file your tax return.

Thanks for the encouragement. I really needed to hear that.

yeah its definitely scary at first but gets easier

Great advice, I'll definitely do that.

How do you know if you need to reapply vs just fixing something?

If you can't complete the application or it gets rejected, you might need to start fresh. But minor mistakes can usually be corrected by calling Washington ESD.

You typically file in the state where you worked most recently, but there can be exceptions. Washington ESD can help determine which state you should file in based on your work history.

Thanks, I'll mention that when I apply.

Yeah, I'm already stressing about next month's bills.

Look into local resources too - food banks, utility assistance programs. They can help bridge the gap while you wait for benefits to start.

Where do you find information about those?

Through WorkSource Washington - they partner with ESD to provide employment services.

Thank you so much everyone. This has been incredibly helpful and I feel much more confident about applying now.