What I need to apply for unemployment - Washington ESD requirements checklist?

You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, and employment history for the last 18 months. Make sure you have employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation. Also gather any separation paperwork your employer gives you.

don't forget you need to register with WorkSource WA too, that's mandatory for job search requirements

The Washington ESD application is pretty straightforward but can take 30-45 minutes if you have all your info ready. You'll apply online at esd.wa.gov. Just make sure you have your bank account info for direct deposit setup too.

Been through this process twice now. One thing that really helped me was using Claimyr when I had issues getting through to Washington ESD on the phone. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call myself.

Make sure you apply within a week of your last day of work! I waited too long and had to explain the delay to Washington ESD. Also, if you get any severance pay, that might affect when your benefits start.

also gather any union paperwork if you're in a union, they sometimes ask for that stuff

One more important thing - make sure you're available and able to work when you file. If you have any medical issues that prevent you from working, you might need to look into other programs instead of regular unemployment.

The worst part is waiting for adjudication if there are any issues with your claim. Mine took 6 weeks because my employer disputed it.

I had to call Washington ESD multiple times during my claim and getting through was impossible. Ended up using a service called Claimyr that got me connected to an actual person. Really helped when I was stuck in adjudication.

Don't forget you'll need to file weekly claims every week to get paid. It's not automatic after your initial application.

the job search requirements are no joke, you need to apply for jobs and keep track of everything in worksource

Quick tip - take screenshots of your completed application before you submit it. I had a technical glitch and lost all my info the first time.

Washington ESD's phone system is absolutely terrible. I spent weeks trying to get through about a simple question. Finally used Claimyr and got connected right away.

Remember that your weekly benefit amount is based on your earnings in your base period, which is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file.

Make sure you understand the difference between being laid off vs fired for cause. It makes a huge difference in whether you qualify.

if you worked in multiple states you might need to file in a different state depending on where you earned the most money

The system can be slow during peak times, so try to apply early in the morning or late at night if possible.

One last thing - keep copies of everything you submit and any correspondence from Washington ESD. You never know when you might need to reference something later.

Good luck with your application! The process can be stressful but it's manageable if you have all your documents ready.

Just remember that even if everything goes smoothly, it usually takes a week or two to get your first payment after filing.

The hardest part for me was the waiting period and not knowing if my claim was being processed correctly. Having Claimyr available as backup for when I needed to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD was a huge relief.