How to unemployment claim - Washington ESD filing process help needed

Don't panic! Filing for unemployment in Washington is actually pretty straightforward once you know the steps. First, you need to create an account on SecureAccess Washington (SAW) if you don't have one already. Then go to the Washington ESD website and click on 'File for unemployment benefits.' You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked.

Make sure you file ASAP! There's a waiting week in Washington but your claim starts from when you first file, not when you lost your job. I made the mistake of waiting two weeks thinking I needed to 'cool off' first and lost out on benefits for those weeks.

The Washington ESD phone system is absolutely horrible if you need help with your claim. I spent weeks trying to get through when my application got stuck in adjudication. Finally discovered this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually gets you connected to ESD agents. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration!

Here's what you need to know about the actual filing process: Log into your SAW account, go to Washington ESD services, and start a new unemployment claim. The system will walk you through questions about your work history, reason for separation, and availability to work. Be completely honest about why you lost your job - if you were laid off due to lack of work, that's typically a qualifying reason for UI benefits.

ugh the washington esd website is such a nightmare. took me like 3 tries to get through the whole application because it kept timing out. make sure you have like 2 hours free and don't try to do it on your phone

After you file your initial claim, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to get your benefits. This is super important - even if your claim is still processing, you need to keep filing those weekly claims or you'll miss out on payments. The weekly claims ask about any work you did and money you earned that week.

One thing nobody tells you is that you have to register with WorkSource Washington and do job search activities. I think it's 3 job search contacts per week but don't quote me on that. You'll get more info about this after your claim is approved but good to know ahead of time.

The whole system is designed to make you give up I swear. They make it as complicated as possible and then when you need help their phone lines are always busy. Good luck getting a human on the phone at Washington ESD without waiting 4+ hours.

Pro tip: when you're filling out the application, have your last employer's FEIN number ready if you can find it. It's on your W-2 or pay stub. Makes the application process go faster because the system can auto-populate some employer info.

Make sure you understand the difference between being laid off and being fired for cause. If you were fired for misconduct, you probably won't qualify for UI benefits. But if it was a layoff due to business reasons, you should be fine.

honestly just start the application and see what happens. the worst they can do is deny you and then you can appeal if you think they made a mistake. at least you'll know where you stand

The wage requirements in Washington are based on your earnings in your 'base period' which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 quarters before you filed. You need to have earned at least $1,000 in your base period and your total base period wages need to be at least 1.5 times your highest quarter earnings.

I filed my claim 3 weeks ago and it's still in 'adjudication' status with no updates. Apparently they have to verify everything with your employer which can take forever. Just a heads up that you might not get benefits right away even if you file immediately.

Don't forget about taxes! Unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld from your weekly payments or pay them later, but don't forget about it or you'll owe a bunch at tax time.

Keep copies of everything! Your application confirmation, any correspondence from Washington ESD, your weekly claim confirmations, job search records, everything. If there are any issues later you'll need documentation.

The maximum weekly benefit in Washington is around $900 right now but most people get less than that. Your benefit amount is based on your past wages during the base period. There's a calculator on the ESD website if you want to estimate what you might get.

Just wanted to add that if you have any issues during the process, don't give up! The system can be frustrating but there are people who can help. I had to appeal my initial denial and eventually got it sorted out. Persistence pays off.

Update us when you get it filed! Always curious to hear how the process goes for people. And remember, even if it seems overwhelming at first, thousands of people file for unemployment every week in Washington. You've got this!