What do I need to collect unemployment benefits from Washington ESD?

Do I need anything else from my employer like a termination letter?

Not required but helpful if you have one, especially if you were laid off. Washington ESD will contact your employer directly to verify your separation.

Good point, definitely want the money as fast as possible!

What counts as job search activities? Just applying for jobs?

Applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, taking classes related to work, creating or updating your resume, even informational interviews. Keep detailed records of everything.

Make sure you register with WorkSourceWA too - that's required and they have job search tools that count toward your weekly requirements.

Never heard of that - is it legit? I'm worried about scams.

Yeah it's legitimate, they don't ask for any personal info upfront. Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Worth checking out the demo video.

I was skeptical too but tried it when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Actually worked and the ESD agent was able to explain what documents they needed to process my claim.

What's a waiting week?

The first week of your claim period you won't get paid for, but you still have to file the weekly claim. It's just how the system works in Washington.

Pro tip: use your W-2s or pay stubs to get the exact employer information. Makes the application much smoother.

What if I have a doctor's appointment during the week?

Short appointments are usually fine, it's more about extended periods where you couldn't accept a job if offered. The weekly claim will ask about your availability.

How do I know if my claim is in adjudication?

You'll see it in your eServices account on the Washington ESD website. It'll show 'Adjudication in Progress' and you won't get paid until it's resolved.

This is exactly when Claimyr helped me - I couldn't figure out why my claim was stuck and calling ESD was hopeless. The agent they connected me with explained the whole process.

What if I do some freelance work while collecting?

Report it! They'll reduce your weekly benefit but you won't get in trouble. It's the hiding it that causes problems.

Good to know, I'll avoid Sunday afternoons then.

This is super helpful, thank you! Going to gather all this info and apply today.

Don't stress too much about perfection - you can always provide additional info later if needed. The important thing is getting your claim started.

Definitely try Claimyr if you need to talk to someone at ESD. That 3-week wait sounds like adjudication and you need answers about what's holding it up.

Check your eServices account for any notices or requests for additional information. Sometimes they need documents but the notification gets missed.

I was laid off on Thursday, should I backdate to that week or start fresh?

Start your claim for the week you were laid off. You want to capture every eligible week.

What happens if I forget to file one week?

you lose that week's benefits and can't go back and claim it later. that's why the reminder is so important

Yeah, that's the beauty of Claimyr - you can actually get help when you need it instead of being stuck with confusing online forms.