Is there a time limit to file for unemployment in Washington ESD?

Oh no, so I can't get benefits for those 6 weeks I was unemployed but didn't file? That's like $2,400 I'm missing out on!

Unfortunately, no. Washington ESD benefits are paid weekly starting from your claim effective date, which is when you file. The system doesn't backdate to your separation date.

What counts as 'too long'? And what would be considered good cause for waiting?

Generally, a few weeks to a couple months is usually fine if you were actively job searching. Good cause could be medical issues, family emergencies, or if you were expecting to be recalled to work.

I waited 8 weeks to file last year because I thought my layoff was temporary. Washington ESD didn't give me any problems about it during my phone interview.

Thanks! I'm going to file today. Do you know how long it takes to get approved?

It varies. Mine took about 2 weeks, but some people get stuck in adjudication for longer if there are any issues with their claim.

Interesting, I've never heard of that. Did it actually work for you?

Yeah, it worked great. I was skeptical at first but it saved me hours of calling and getting disconnected. The agent was able to explain my adjudication status right away.

How much does something like that cost? Seems too good to be true.

It's worth it if you really need to get through. Way better than wasting entire days trying to call Washington ESD directly.

I worked full-time for 2 years before getting laid off, so I should meet the wage requirements. What exactly do they mean by 'actively seeking employment'?

You need to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep a detailed job search log. Washington ESD can audit this at any time, so keep good records of your applications, interviews, and networking activities.

I get the frustration, but the system is designed this way to prevent fraud and ensure people are actually looking for work when they claim benefits.

whatever, still dumb that you lose money just because you don't know the rules

So if I file today (Wednesday), my effective date would be this past Sunday?

Exactly! And then you'll need to file your first weekly claim for this week. Make sure to do it before the deadline each week.

Tell me about it! I've been calling for 3 weeks trying to resolve an issue with my weekly claim. Always get the 'high call volume' message and then disconnected.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. I was in the same boat - couldn't get through for weeks. That service actually got me connected to an agent who cleared up my issue in 10 minutes.

This is my first time filing, so I don't think that applies to me. But good to know for the future.

Right, just mentioning it because a lot of people get confused about the difference between filing a new claim and reopening an existing one.

Do I need exact dates and addresses for all my previous employers?

Yes, be as accurate as possible. Washington ESD will verify this information with your employers, so any discrepancies could delay your claim.

Severance can affect your benefits depending on how it's classified. If it's considered wages in lieu of notice, it might delay when your benefits start. Washington ESD will make this determination during your claim review.

Ugh, another complication. This system is so complex!

You're right, I'm filing today. Thanks everyone for the help!

Good luck! Remember to keep detailed records of your job search activities from day one.

You generally continue your claim with the state where you filed (Washington ESD in this case) even if you move, as long as you meet the work search requirements in your new location.

Thanks! That's one less thing to worry about during a move.

What day of the week do you have to file the weekly claims?

You can file your weekly claim starting Sunday for the previous week, and you have until Saturday to submit it. I always do mine on Sunday morning so I don't forget.

Thanks for the encouragement! I was definitely feeling overwhelmed by all the rules and requirements.

It's totally normal to feel that way. The system seems complicated at first, but once you get into the routine of filing weekly claims and doing your job search, it becomes second nature.