What documents do I need for Washington ESD unemployment application - first time filing

You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, and employment history for the last 18 months. Make sure you have your employer's business name, address, and the dates you worked there. Also gather your pay stubs or W-2 forms to verify your wages.

Don't forget your bank account information for direct deposit setup. You'll also need to know the reason you're no longer working - in your case it sounds like a layoff which is good for UI eligibility. Washington ESD will ask for specific details about your separation.

The application process can be frustrating if you need to contact Washington ESD for help. I spent hours trying to call them when I had questions about my application. Recently discovered claimyr.com which actually helped me get through to a real person at Washington ESD. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

make sure you have your alien registration number if you're not a US citizen. also if you worked in multiple states in the last 18 months that gets more complicated

One important thing - file your application as soon as possible. Your benefit year starts the week you file, not when you became unemployed. So even if you're still gathering some documents, go ahead and start the process on secure.esd.wa.gov.

The Washington ESD application will also ask about any severance pay or vacation pay you received. Make sure you have those amounts ready too. It might affect when your benefits start.

ugh the washington esd website is so confusing. i started my application three times before i figured out what they were asking for. definitely have all your info ready before you start

You'll also need to register with WorkSource Washington as part of the process. It's integrated now but just be prepared for that step. You'll create a job search profile and that's where you'll log your work search activities later.

If you have any military service make sure you have your DD-214 form. Washington ESD needs to see military wages too if you served recently.

Pro tip: have your phone number and email ready and make sure they're current. Washington ESD will contact you through both if they need additional information about your claim.

Double check that your Social Security card matches exactly what you put on the application. Any discrepancy can delay your claim approval.

I had issues reaching Washington ESD when I needed help with my application. Someone mentioned Claimyr earlier and that actually worked for me too. Got connected to an agent in like 10 minutes instead of calling for hours.

Keep copies of everything you submit! Screenshot the confirmation page when you file your application. Washington ESD systems can be glitchy and you want proof you filed on time.

The hardest part for me was remembering exact start and end dates for all my jobs in the last 18 months. If you worked multiple jobs or had gaps, write out a timeline before you start the application.

don't stress too much about having every single detail perfect. washington esd will contact you if they need more info. the important thing is to get your application in quickly

One last thing - if your employer contests your claim they'll schedule a fact-finding interview. Be prepared to explain the circumstances of your job loss, but since you were laid off due to store closure that should be pretty straightforward.

Good luck with your application! The first time filing can seem overwhelming but Washington ESD's online system is pretty user-friendly once you get started. You've got this!

One thing I didn't see mentioned - make sure you have your mailing address correct and up to date. Washington ESD will send important documents by mail including your monetary determination letter that shows your benefit amount. If you've moved recently or your mail delivery is unreliable, consider using a PO box or trusted address where you know you'll receive mail consistently.