Started new ESD claim Sunday - no weekly claim button showing - normal?
Hi everyone, I'm a little confused about my new unemployment claim. I submitted my initial application this past Sunday (Feb 2) after being let go from my restaurant job. My last day of work was January 23rd. When I log into my eServices account, I don't see any button or option to file a weekly claim. Is this normal for brand new claims? Do I need to wait until my initial claim is processed before the weekly claim option appears? I'm worried about missing my first weekly certification and losing benefits. This is my first time filing for unemployment in Washington and I'm not sure what to expect. Thanks for any help!
15 comments
Join the conversation
Saleem Vaziri
You're totally fine! The weekly claim button doesn't show up until your application is processed. It usually takes 1-2 weeks for ESD to process new claims. They'll send you a determination letter when they approve your claim, and then the weekly claim option will appear in your eServices account. Just keep checking your account daily - once you see the weekly claim button, you'll need to file right away to stay current.
0 coins
Lindsey Fry
•Thank you so much! That's a relief. I was worried I was doing something wrong. Do you know if I'll still get paid for this first week, or is there a waiting week?
0 coins
Kayla Morgan
ya there's a waiting week u dont get paid for the 1st week that's how they do it fyi
0 coins
Lindsey Fry
•Oh, I didn't know about the waiting week. So even once I can file, I won't get paid for the first week? That's going to be tough financially.
0 coins
James Maki
To clarify a couple things about your situation: 1. Yes, there's a waiting week for regular UI claims in Washington. This is the first week you're eligible, but you won't receive benefits for it. You DO still need to file a weekly claim for this week once the option appears. 2. The weekly claim button typically appears after your application is processed AND after the week you're claiming has ended. The UI week runs Sunday-Saturday, so if you applied on Sunday (Feb 2), you'll likely be able to file your first weekly claim starting on Sunday, Feb 9 for the week of Feb 2-8. 3. Important: Even though there's no button yet, make sure you're keeping track of any job search activities starting from your first eligible week. You'll need to report 3 job search activities per week when you do file. Hope this helps!
0 coins
Lindsey Fry
•Thank you for the detailed explanation! I'll start keeping track of my job search activities right away. I've been applying to a few places already, so I'll make sure to document everything properly.
0 coins
Jasmine Hancock
I had the same issue last month!!!! Was freaking out because I thought I was going to miss filing my weekly claim. But yeah just wait til they process your application. The button magically appears once they approve you lol
0 coins
Cole Roush
ESD is a complete disaster right now. When I filed in November it took them FOUR WEEKS to process my initial claim. Four weeks with no income and no way to even file weekly claims! Their call center was useless - kept hanging up on me saying "high call volume" every single time. I had to email my state representative to get anyone to help me. The system is BROKEN!!
0 coins
Scarlett Forster
•I had the same frustrating experience trying to reach ESD last month. After getting disconnected 20+ times, I found a service called Claimyr that actually got me through to an ESD agent in about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 Their site is claimyr.com - it saved me from going crazy with the phone system. Just in case your application gets stuck and you need to talk to someone directly.
0 coins
Arnav Bengali
guys im confused about something related... i filed my weekly claim yesterday but it still says pending? how long does that usually take to change to paid? sorry to piggyback on ur post OP
0 coins
Saleem Vaziri
•Pending status is normal for a day or two after filing. If you have direct deposit, you should see the money 2-3 business days after it changes from pending to paid. If you have the debit card option, it can take an extra day. If it stays pending for more than 3-4 days, there might be an issue with your claim that needs addressing.
0 coins
Saleem Vaziri
One more thing I forgot to mention - make sure your contact information is up to date in your eServices account. ESD might need to contact you with questions about your claim, and if they can't reach you, it could delay processing. Also, check your spam/junk folder regularly for emails from ESD - they often end up there.
0 coins
Lindsey Fry
•Thanks for the reminder! I just double-checked my contact info and made sure my email is correct. I'll keep an eye on my spam folder too.
0 coins
James Maki
Quick update on processing times - as of January 2025, ESD is averaging about 10-14 days to process new claims if there are no issues that require adjudication. If they need to verify anything with your former employer or if there are any discrepancies in your application, it can take 3-4 weeks or sometimes longer. Once your claim is processed, you'll receive several notices in your eServices account and by mail: 1. Monetary Determination - shows how much your weekly benefit amount will be 2. UI Claimant Notice - confirms your claim has been established 3. Job Search Requirements - explains what you need to do each week Make sure to read all of these carefully when they arrive.
0 coins
Lindsey Fry
•This is really helpful, thank you! I'll watch for those notices. My separation was pretty straightforward (restaurant closed permanently), so hopefully there won't be any complications with verification.
0 coins