What do you need to sign up for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Thanks! Do I need the exact addresses of all my previous employers or just the company names?

You need the full addresses. Washington ESD will contact these employers to verify your work history, so the more complete info you provide, the faster your claim processes.

Is that something I do before filing my claim or after?

You can do it either way, but I'd recommend doing it after you file your initial claim. The Washington ESD website will guide you through the WorkSource registration during the application process.

That sounds helpful! Did you use it during the initial application or later when you had problems?

I used it after I filed because my claim got stuck in adjudication and I couldn't get answers about what was happening. But it would probably work for application questions too.

What if I was laid off but never got an official letter? My boss just told me verbally that my position was eliminated.

That's fine, just explain that in the application. Washington ESD will verify with your employer directly. Just be honest about the circumstances of your separation.

Same thing happened to me - no formal paperwork. Washington ESD contacted my employer and everything was fine. They're used to dealing with informal layoffs.

I feel you! The whole process is overwhelming when you're already stressed about being unemployed.

It does seem complicated at first, but once you get through it once, it's not too bad. The main thing is just having all your employer info ready before you start.

Good point! Is that just from my most recent job or all jobs in the past 18 months?

All jobs in the base period, which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters. So yeah, basically 18 months worth of employment history.

How soon after I file do I need to start doing weekly claims?

You'll get instructions about when to file your first weekly claim after your initial application is processed. Usually it's within a week or two of filing.

I worked in Oregon for 3 months last year but live in Washington now. Should I file in Washington or Oregon?

File in Washington since that's where you live and presumably where you're looking for work now. Washington ESD will coordinate with Oregon to get your wage information.

That's not too bad. I was expecting it to take hours!

The application itself is quick, but processing time can vary. Mine was approved in a few days, but some people wait weeks if there are issues.

Good catch! I should probably update my info with them before I apply.

You can update it during the application process, but yeah, make sure everything is current so you don't miss any important communications.

This happened to my friend too - missed a request for additional docs because of an old email address. Delayed her claim by weeks.

How much does something like that cost?

I don't remember the exact amount but it was worth it to avoid sitting on hold for hours. Much less stressful than the regular calling process.

Not sure if that's true but I filed on a Tuesday and got approved pretty quickly. Could just be coincidence though.

Can't hurt to try! I was planning to file this week anyway.

Should I print out the application after I submit it?

Yes, definitely save or print a copy. Also screenshot your confirmation page. You'll get a confirmation number that's useful to have if you need to reference your application later.

Thanks everyone! This thread has been super helpful. I feel much more prepared now.

Good luck with your application! Hope it goes smoothly for you.

Perfect summary! I'm going to gather all this info this weekend and file early next week.

And remember, if you run into any issues or need to talk to someone at Washington ESD, that Claimyr service is there as a backup option. Much easier than trying to get through their phone lines.