What do I need from my employer to file for unemployment Washington ESD

Really? I thought I needed some kind of separation notice or termination letter first. That's a relief!

Nope, Washington ESD will contact your employer directly to verify the separation details. Just file as soon as possible since there's a waiting week.

I don't have all my wage info for the last 18 months memorized. Will Washington ESD be able to get that from my employer automatically?

Yes, they'll get your wage records from all your employers through their quarterly reporting system. You just need to provide your best estimate when filing.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash being unemployed.

It's worth checking out their site for pricing details, but honestly it saved me hours of trying to call on my own. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person about your claim status.

Wait, I have to file weekly claims before my main claim is even approved? That seems weird.

yes!! you have to keep filing weekly or you lose those weeks. the system is stupid like that but you have to do it

I had a part-time job at the same time as my main job for about 6 months last year. Do I need to include that too?

Yes, include all employment within the base period. That part-time income could actually increase your weekly benefit amount.

So I definitely won't get any money for the first week no matter what? Even though I need it for rent?

Correct, the waiting week is mandated by state law. Plan accordingly and maybe talk to your landlord about the situation.

What kind of questions would cause adjudication? I was definitely laid off, not fired for cause or anything.

Sometimes they just need to verify the details with your employer, especially if the separation reason isn't clear in their system. Layoffs are usually straightforward but the process can still take time.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. When I was stuck in adjudication limbo, that service helped me actually reach someone who could explain what was happening with my claim. Way better than playing phone tag for weeks.

I might have to look into that. I'm getting desperate here and my savings are running out.

Good to know! I was planning to file tonight anyway so that timing works out.

I filed on a Wednesday and had no problems, so I think any day should be fine as long as you avoid peak hours.

Do I need to start job searching immediately or can I wait until my claim is approved?

You should start the job search requirement as soon as you file your first weekly claim. Don't wait for approval - the requirements kick in right away.

Six weeks?? I really can't wait that long for money. Is there any way to speed up the process?

not really, the system moves at its own pace. make sure all your info is accurate when you file to avoid delays

That's good to know. I'll make sure to check that regularly instead of calling for every little question.

The online account is helpful but sometimes it doesn't show all the details about why a claim is held up. That's when calling becomes necessary.

That's encouraging! Did you have any issues with the adjudication process or did it go smoothly?

Mine went smoothly because the layoff was clearly documented and I had all my employment details ready. Mass layoffs usually process faster than individual separations.

I actually had luck with that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Called them when I couldn't get through to Washington ESD during normal hours and they connected me within 20 minutes. Worth trying if you're stuck.

Seems like a lot of people have had success with that service. I'll keep it in mind if I run into issues.

I'm supposed to get two weeks of severance pay. Should I wait to file until after I receive that?

No, file immediately but report the severance when you file your weekly claims. Washington ESD will adjust your payments accordingly but you don't want to delay filing your initial claim.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more confident about filing my claim now.

You've got this! Unemployment can be stressful but at least Washington state has decent benefits compared to other places.