What do you need to file for unemployment benefits with Washington ESD?

Thanks! Should I wait to file or do it right away? I heard there might be a waiting period?

File as soon as possible! In Washington, you can file the Sunday after your last day of work. There's a one-week waiting period before benefits start, so don't delay.

Oh good point about the bank info. I worked for two different companies in the last year so I'll need to dig up those details.

Also make sure you know WHY you were laid off. If it was due to lack of work vs company closing vs restructuring, etc. They ask specific questions about the separation reason.

I had the same problem! I actually found this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual Washington ESD agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much frustration.

That sounds too good to be true honestly. How does it work exactly?

It's basically a callback service that gets you connected to Washington ESD without having to sit on hold. You just tell them what you need help with and they handle the calling part. Really straightforward.

I'm a citizen so that doesn't apply to me, but good to know for others reading this.

Yeah I wish someone had told me about the military thing when I filed. Had to go back and update my application when they asked for additional documentation.

I know it seems overwhelming but once you get through the initial application it's not too bad. The weekly claims are pretty straightforward.

yeah i guess your right just stressed about money right now

What exactly does 'available for work' mean? Like do I need to be applying for jobs immediately?

You need to be actively seeking work and able to accept suitable employment. The job search requirements kick in after you receive your first payment, but you should start looking right away.

They make you keep a job search log too. I think it's like 3 job contacts per week or something like that.

Smart thinking! I'll definitely do that. The Washington ESD website does seem pretty glitchy from what I've heard.

6 weeks?! That's terrifying. How did you survive financially during that time?

It was rough not gonna lie. Had to borrow money from family. But once it got approved I got a lump sum for all the weeks I was waiting.

Same thing happened to me. The adjudication process is slow but they do pay retroactively once it's resolved.

You can definitely file online through the Washington ESD website. That's actually the preferred method. Only call if you run into problems or need to speak to someone about your specific situation.

Yeah definitely file online first. But if you do need to call later, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier really does work. I was skeptical at first but it got me connected to a real person at Washington ESD within like 20 minutes.

When do the weekly claims start? Right after I file the initial application?

You'll get instructions after your initial claim is filed. Usually you can start filing weekly claims the week after you apply. They're due by Saturday each week for the previous week.

Thankfully I was laid off due to company downsizing so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Yeah they definitely investigate the reason for separation. I had to provide documentation when my employer disputed my claim.

I did get a small severance. Should I report that when I file?

Yes definitely report it. It's better to be upfront about everything than have them find out later and accuse you of fraud.

Thanks everyone! This has been super helpful. I feel much more prepared now to tackle the application.

Good luck! Remember this forum is here if you run into any issues during the process.

What kind of additional documents might they ask for?

Could be anything from pay stubs to tax returns to verification of your identity. Just respond quickly if they request anything to avoid delays.

How much does that service cost? I'm already strapped for cash.

They don't ask for payment upfront or anything. The main thing is it actually works to get you connected to Washington ESD when their regular phone system is useless.