How to start collecting unemployment in Washington - need help with first steps

Don't wait! You should file your initial claim as soon as possible after your last day of work. Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'File a Claim' section. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment information for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates of employment. The weekly claims come after your initial claim is processed - that's how you certify each week that you're still unemployed and looking for work.

The process is pretty straightforward once you get started. After you file your initial claim, you'll get a determination letter in about a week telling you if you're approved and what your weekly benefit amount will be. Then you file weekly claims every Sunday for the previous week. Make sure you register with WorkSource too - that's required for job search activities.

I was in the same boat last year and honestly the hardest part was getting through to someone at Washington ESD when I had questions. The phone lines are always busy and the wait times are insane. I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting disconnected.

Make sure you understand the waiting week situation. In Washington, there's no waiting week anymore so you can get paid for your first week of unemployment if you file on time. This changed a few years ago but some people still think there's a waiting period.

The key things to remember: file your initial claim immediately, register with WorkSource within 7 days of filing, and start filing weekly claims right away. Your first payment usually comes about 2-3 weeks after filing if everything goes smoothly. Keep track of all your job search activities because Washington ESD can audit your claim at any time.

One thing people don't realize is that you can work part-time while on unemployment in Washington. You just have to report all your earnings on your weekly claim. They'll reduce your benefits based on how much you earn, but you can still collect partial unemployment. It's not an all-or-nothing thing.

Don't forget to set up direct deposit when you file your claim. Getting a debit card in the mail takes longer and there are fees associated with using it. Direct deposit is free and faster.

Just be prepared for the possibility that your claim might go into adjudication if there are any questions about your separation from work. This can add weeks to the process while they investigate. Happened to me even though I was clearly laid off due to lack of work.

I'll echo what others said about filing immediately. I waited a few days after I got laid off and kicked myself for losing those days of benefits. Every week matters when you're unemployed and bills are piling up.

Make sure you have a good internet connection and some time set aside when you file. The online application can be a bit long and you don't want to lose your progress if your connection drops or times out.

Don't stress too much about making a mistake on your application. You can always call Washington ESD to correct information if needed. The important thing is to get it filed and start the process.

The Washington ESD website has a pretty good step-by-step guide for first-time filers. I'd recommend reading through that before you start your application. It explains everything pretty clearly.

One more thing - make sure you understand what 'able and available' means. You have to be physically able to work and available for work to collect benefits. If you're sick or have other commitments that prevent you from working, you need to report that.

The job search requirement is 3 activities per week, but they're pretty flexible about what counts. Applying for jobs, networking events, career fairs, even online job training can count. Just keep detailed records.

Something I wish I had known earlier - if you have any questions about your specific situation, try to get answers before you file rather than guessing. Wrong information can cause delays or even disqualification.

Don't forget about taxes! Unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld from your benefits or pay them at the end of the year. I'd recommend having them withheld to avoid a big tax bill later.

The most important thing is just to get started. I know it seems overwhelming when you're already stressed about losing your job, but the process is designed to help you. Take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

One last tip - screenshot or print out your confirmation page after you submit your initial claim. Having that confirmation number can be helpful if you need to reference your application later.

Remember that getting laid off isn't your fault and unemployment benefits are there for exactly this situation. Don't feel bad about using a system you've paid into through your payroll taxes. Focus on finding your next opportunity.