How to sign up for unemployment online - Washington ESD website confusing

Thank you! So I create the SAW account first, then apply for UI benefits through that login?

Exactly. The SAW account is like your gateway to all Washington state online services including unemployment.

Good point, I'll gather all that info first. How long does the application usually take to complete?

About 30-45 minutes if you have everything ready. Don't rush through it though, mistakes can cause delays later.

Never heard of Claimyr before, does it actually work? The ESD phone lines are impossible.

Yeah it worked for me. I was stuck in adjudication and needed to talk to someone. Used their service and got through same day.

That sounds too good to be true tbh. How much does it cost?

Thanks for the warning! I'll double check I'm on the right site.

Yes this is important! I almost fell for a fake site that wanted me to pay to apply.

What kind of errors did you run into? Want to avoid those if possible.

mostly date formatting issues and the system timing out. just be patient and double check everything before hitting submit

Good to know! Do I file weekly claims through the same SAW account?

Yes, everything goes through your SAW account once it's set up. Weekly claims, checking payment status, updating your profile, etc.

What counts as job search activities? Just applying for jobs?

Applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, career counseling, creating profiles on job sites - there's a whole list on the ESD website.

And keep detailed records! They can audit your job search log at any time.

There's usually a one week waiting period, then it can take 2-3 weeks for processing if there are no issues. If it's been longer, your claim might be in adjudication.

How do I know if it's in adjudication? My account just says 'processing'.

If you can't get through to ESD to check, that's another situation where Claimyr might help. They can get you connected to find out what's holding up your claim.

I lost my job last Tuesday, so I should apply this week then?

Yes, apply immediately. The sooner the better. Your benefit year starts the week you apply, not when you lost your job.

That's smart, I'll try doing it tonight after work hours.

Yeah weekends are usually better too, less traffic on the site.

Good luck! Sounds like we're both figuring this out at the same time.

Make sure you have your last pay stub and any separation paperwork from your employer.

I've only worked in Washington for the past 3 years so I should be good.

Perfect, then Washington ESD will handle your whole claim.

Good point, I'll use my password manager for this.

And don't forget to verify your email address after creating the account!

Can I set up direct deposit during the application process or do I have to wait?

You can set it up during the application. Just have your bank routing and account numbers ready.

That's reassuring. I'm worried I'll mess something up.

Just take your time and read everything carefully. The application will walk you through each step.

Good to know there's a backup option if the website doesn't work for me.

Though if you need to reach ESD for any reason, I'd still recommend trying Claimyr. Much faster than trying to call directly.

Oh I didn't know that. Probably better to have taxes withheld then.

Yeah, it's usually easier than getting a big tax bill later. You can change this setting anytime through your SAW account.

Great advice, I'll screenshot everything important.

Yes! And keep records of all your job search activities too. You never know when ESD might ask for them.

Same here! Thanks everyone for all the tips and advice.

Good luck with your application! Feel free to ask if you run into any specific issues.