What do you need to file for unemployment in Washington ESD?

You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, employment history for the last 18 months (including employer names, addresses, dates worked, and reason for leaving), and your bank account info if you want direct deposit. Also gather any separation paperwork from your recent job.

Don't forget you'll need to know your gross wages for each employer during your base period. Check your pay stubs or W-2s from last year. The base period is usually the first 4 quarters of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file.

Make sure you have your alien registration number if you're not a US citizen, and be ready to answer questions about why you left each job. Washington ESD is really picky about voluntary quits versus layoffs.

Pro tip: if you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to ask questions or check on your application, I recently discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com). They help you actually reach ESD agents by phone instead of getting stuck in the endless phone tree. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

One thing people always forget - you need to be able and available for work. That means you can't be on vacation, in school full-time, or have any restrictions that would prevent you from accepting suitable work.

ugh the whole process is such a pain. I filed 3 weeks ago and still haven't heard anything back. Just says 'under review' when I log into my account.

Also be prepared for the job search requirements. You'll need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. Set up your WorkSourceWA account early because you'll need it.

Have your most recent employer's contact information handy too - full business name, address, phone number, and supervisor name if possible. Washington ESD often needs to verify employment details.

Don't forget to file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still pending! I made that mistake and it delayed everything even more.

Make sure you have a reliable email address and phone number because ESD will contact you through both. And check your spam folder regularly - their emails sometimes end up there.

If you worked in multiple states, things get more complicated. You might need to file in the state where you worked most recently or earned the most wages. Washington ESD can help figure that out.

The Washington ESD website has a checklist of required documents. Print it out and gather everything before you start the online application. It's much easier than trying to find stuff in the middle of filling it out.

Expect questions about your availability for work. Be honest but don't overthink it. If you can work normal business hours and don't have major restrictions, you should be fine.

One more thing - if you have any union involvement or were part of a mass layoff, mention that. Sometimes there are special procedures or additional benefits available.

Just a heads up that if you have any military service, bring your DD-214. There might be additional benefits or special considerations for veterans.

The system can be glitchy sometimes. If you get error messages or the website acts up, try a different browser or clear your cache. I had to use Chrome instead of Safari to get mine to work.

seriously though, if your claim gets stuck or you need to talk to someone, that Claimyr service is worth it. I wasted weeks trying to get through on my own before someone told me about it. Now I actually know what's happening with my claim.

Remember that your first week is usually a waiting week where you don't get paid even if approved. Plan your finances accordingly.

Last thing - be completely honest about everything. ESD will find out if you lie about wages, work history, or reason for leaving jobs. It's better to have a delayed claim than a fraud investigation.

thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I feel much more prepared now. Going to gather all my documents tonight and file tomorrow morning.