How to start a unemployment claim with Washington ESD - confused about the process

First thing - don't panic! The process is actually pretty straightforward once you know the steps. You'll need to file your initial claim online at esd.wa.gov. Make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months (employer names, addresses, dates worked, and reason for separation). You'll also need your bank account info if you want direct deposit.

File as soon as possible! You can't get benefits for weeks before you file your claim. The waiting week was eliminated so you can get paid for your first week if you're eligible. Make sure you file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still being processed.

I was in the same boat 6 months ago - totally overwhelmed by the whole process. One thing that really helped me was using Claimyr to actually get through to a live person at Washington ESD when I had questions. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call and getting busy signals.

ugh the washington esd system is such a nightmare, took me forever to figure out how to even log in the first time

Here's the basic timeline: File your initial claim online, then you'll usually get a monetary determination letter within a week showing your weekly benefit amount. If there are no issues, you should get your first payment about 2-3 weeks after filing. But if they need to verify anything or there's an issue with your separation, it goes into adjudication which can take several weeks.

Don't forget about the work search requirements! You need to be actively looking for work and keep a log of your job search activities. They can audit this at any time.

Make sure you answer all the questions honestly on your initial claim. I've seen people get in trouble later because they weren't accurate about their last day worked or reason for separation.

I had such a hard time getting through to Washington ESD when I had questions about my claim. Spent literally days trying to call. Finally found out about Claimyr from someone on Reddit and it was a game changer. They handle all the calling and waiting and connect you directly to an agent.

One thing I wish I knew earlier - set up your online account access right away and make sure you can log in before you need to file your first weekly claim. The login system can be finicky.

THE SYSTEM IS BROKEN!!! I've been waiting 6 weeks for my claim to be processed and can't get anyone on the phone. This is ridiculous when people need money for rent and food!

Pro tip: file your claim Sunday morning if possible. The system is usually less busy then and you're less likely to run into technical issues.

Remember that your weekly benefit amount is based on your highest quarter of earnings in your base year, not your most recent job. So if you made more money at a previous job, that might actually help your benefit calculation.

If you're really stuck and need to talk to someone, Claimyr has been a lifesaver for getting through the phone system. I used them when my claim got stuck in adjudication and needed to speak with someone urgently. Way better than spending all day redialing busy signals.

Just want to add - make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even if your initial claim is taking forever to process. You can't go back and claim weeks you missed filing for.

Don't forget to report any vacation pay or severance pay you might receive. Better to report it upfront than have Washington ESD find out later and create an overpayment situation.

The job search requirement thing stressed me out at first but it's really not that hard. Just keep track of what you do - apply for jobs, network, update your resume, etc. Three activities per week is pretty reasonable.

Quick question - anyone know if the Washington ESD offices are doing in-person appointments again? I'm more of a face-to-face person when dealing with complicated stuff like this.

OP, you got this! I know it seems scary but thousands of people go through this process every week. Take it one step at a time and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. The most important thing is to file as soon as possible so you don't lose any potential benefit weeks.