Washington ESD unemployment application - how to collect unemployment benefits properly?

Do I need pay stubs or just the basic info about where I worked?

Just the basic employment info for the initial application. Washington ESD will contact your employers directly to verify wages and reason for separation.

Wait, I have to file something every week? I thought it was just one application

Yes, you file weekly claims every Sunday for the previous week. It's how you actually request your benefit payments. The initial claim just establishes your eligibility.

The job search thing is such a pain. Do they actually check those logs?

They can audit your job search activities, so keep detailed records. Use WorkSourceWA.com for some of your searches - it counts toward your requirement and they have good tracking tools.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true

Yeah it's real, they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. They basically handle the calling and waiting for you.

I used something similar when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Worth every penny when you're dealing with ESD phone lines.

You file in the state where you worked, not where you lived. Since you worked in Washington, you file with Washington ESD.

That makes sense, thanks for clarifying

6 weeks?? That's terrifying. What's taking so long?

My claim went into "adjudication" which means they're investigating something about my separation from work. No timeline, no updates, just waiting.

Adjudication can take 4-6 weeks unfortunately. It usually happens when there's a question about why you left your job or if your employer contests the claim.

Your weekly benefit amount is based on your earnings during your base period (first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters). Maximum is currently $999/week but most people get significantly less.

Is there a calculator somewhere to estimate what I might get?

Washington ESD has a benefit calculator on their website, but it's pretty basic. Your actual amount will be calculated when you file your claim.

Good thinking, I'll do that today

What's the difference?

Weekly claims are for requesting your benefit payments. Job search requirements are separate - you have to actively look for work and document it to remain eligible.

Ugh, I didn't even think about that. How much should I expect to pay in taxes?

Depends on your total income for the year, but federal is usually around 10-12% and Washington has no state income tax.

How long do you have to appeal?

30 days from the date on the determination letter. Don't wait - start gathering your documentation immediately if you disagree with their decision.

3 weeks isn't too bad if that's normal timing

that was for a straightforward case though - no issues with the employer or complicated work history

How much does something like that cost?

I don't remember the exact amount but it was worth it considering how much time I was wasting on hold. Better than taking time off work to call during business hours.

What happens if you have an overpayment?

They'll make you pay it back, sometimes with penalties. Plus it can delay future claims or make you ineligible for benefits.

Yeah I'm already confused by all the different terms everyone is using here

UI = unemployment insurance, ESD = Employment Security Department, SAW = SecureAccess Washington. Those are the main ones you'll see.

I had a weekend job for a few months, should I include that too?

Yes, include everything from the last 18 months. Better to include too much information than too little.

Good advice, I'll start a folder for everything

So realistically when would I see my first payment?

If you file this week and everything goes smoothly, probably 2-3 weeks for your first payment. Could be longer if your claim needs review.

Thanks, I really needed to hear that. I'm going to file my claim today.

Definitely doing direct deposit, thanks for all the help everyone!

Good luck with your claim! Remember to file your weekly claims every Sunday and keep looking for work. You've got this.