Washington ESD - How to make unemployment claim for first time filer?

You should file your claim as soon as possible! The waiting week starts from when you file, not when you lost your job. Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'Apply for Benefits' section. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked.

I just filed mine last month and it was actually pretty straightforward once I got started. The hardest part was remembering all my previous jobs. Make sure you have your bank account info ready too for direct deposit setup.

Pro tip: if you run into issues with the Washington ESD website or need to talk to someone, don't waste hours trying to call. I discovered Claimyr.com last week and it actually got me through to an agent in under 10 minutes. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Game changer for getting help with your claim.

Make sure you understand the job search requirements too! Washington ESD requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week once your claim is active. Keep detailed records of where you apply and when.

ugh the washington esd website is such a nightmare. took me 3 tries to get through the application without it timing out. save your work frequently!!

One more important thing - make sure you file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still pending. Missing a week can cause delays in your benefits. You can file weekly claims starting the Sunday after you submit your initial application.

Also heads up that if you worked in multiple states in the past 18 months, you might need to file an interstate claim. Washington ESD handles this but it can add extra processing time to your claim.

Don't stress too much about making mistakes on the application. If Washington ESD needs clarification on anything, they'll send you correspondence through your SecureAccess Washington account or by mail. Just be honest and accurate with your info.

I've been through this process twice now and honestly the hardest part is just getting started. Once you begin the application it walks you through everything step by step. Just gather your documents first and set aside an hour to complete it without interruptions.

Question about the monetary determination - how long does it typically take to get that after filing? I'm trying to plan my budget.

Be prepared for the possibility that your claim might go into adjudication if there are any questions about your separation from work. This is normal but can add 2-4 weeks to the process while they investigate.

If you do run into problems during the application process, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier is legit. I used it when I got stuck on a question about my separation reason and needed to talk to someone at Washington ESD. Way better than trying to call on your own.

Remember that Washington ESD also requires you to be available for work and actively seeking employment. Don't plan any long trips or vacations right after filing because you need to be available if a job opportunity comes up.

One thing I wish someone had told me - keep copies of everything you submit. If there are any issues later, having your own records makes resolving them much easier.

The Washington ESD system sends a lot of correspondence through your online account, so check it regularly. Don't rely on just email notifications because sometimes those get delayed or go to spam.

You got this! Filing for unemployment feels overwhelming at first but it's really just filling out forms with your work history. Take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to ask for help if you get stuck.

Just wanted to add that if you're worried about reaching Washington ESD by phone for any reason, that Claimyr thing actually works. I was skeptical at first but it really does get you through to agents when the regular number is jammed. Worth knowing about if you hit any snags.

Last tip - make sure your contact information is current in your account. Washington ESD needs to be able to reach you for any questions about your claim, and outdated phone numbers or addresses can cause delays.