What does progress mean for unemployment claim status in Washington ESD?

Thanks, that's helpful. It's been 4 business days now though - should I be concerned at this point?

4 days is getting into the range where you might want to check if there are any issues flagged on your account. Look for any notices or required actions in your eServices portal.

How did you get through to them? I've been trying to call but can't get past the busy signal.

It took me literally dozens of calls. I started calling right at 8am when they open and just kept redialing until I got in the queue.

You could try using Claimyr - it's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. I discovered it when I was having similar issues and it actually worked. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

I checked and there's nothing in my correspondence. Does that mean it's just normal processing delays?

Not necessarily. Sometimes the system flags things for manual review without generating a notice. After a week in progress status, I'd recommend calling to check on it.

Three weeks is definitely not normal. Have you tried contacting your state representative? Sometimes they can help escalate issues with Washington ESD.

I didn't think of that. How do I find out who my rep is and would they actually help with unemployment stuff?

You can find your representatives on the Washington State Legislature website. They have constituent services that sometimes help with agency issues, especially when there are unreasonable delays.

I understand the stress, but try not to panic yet. 5 days isn't unusual, especially during busy periods. Have you been filing your weekly claims on time and reporting work search activities correctly?

Yes, I've been doing everything exactly the same as usual. This is the first time it's taken this long.

Is that one of those services that charges you money? I'm already broke waiting for my unemployment.

It does cost something but I was desperate after weeks of trying to get through on my own. For me it was worth it to finally get answers about my claim.

I'm skeptical of these third party services. Seems like something Washington ESD should be handling better on their own.

Would that happen even if I haven't worked at all during the weeks I'm claiming?

Yes, they might be verifying your base period wages or checking that you haven't had unreported work. It's pretty routine but can cause delays.

That's both reassuring and annoying at the same time. How did you finally get through to them?

honestly just kept calling over and over. probably made 50+ calls before i got in the queue. started at 8am sharp and didn't give up

That's really helpful context. At what point should someone definitely be concerned and try to call?

I'd say after 7 business days without payment or explanation, definitely try to contact them. Before that, it's likely just normal processing delays.

This is good advice. I waited too long when mine was stuck and it turned out there was an issue that could have been resolved much sooner if I'd called.

The status updates automatically in the system, but your browser might cache the old page. Try refreshing or clearing your browser cache if you want to be sure you're seeing current info.

Good point, I'll try clearing my cache. I've been refreshing constantly but maybe that's not enough.

How much does Claimyr actually cost? I'm trying to decide if it's worth it or if I should keep trying to call myself.

I'd rather not post the exact amount publicly, but you can check their website. For me, the peace of mind was worth it after weeks of stress and unsuccessful calling attempts.

I was laid off due to company downsizing. Would they really need to verify that again if I already got approved for benefits initially?

Sometimes yes, especially if there are any discrepancies in the information or if it's been flagged for routine verification. It doesn't necessarily mean there's a problem with your claim.

Exactly! Even just a simple explanation like 'processing time: 1-3 days' or 'verification required: 5-10 days' would help so much with the anxiety.

Right? Other states have much better communication about claim status. Washington ESD could learn from them.

That's reassuring to hear. I guess I just need to be more patient, though it's hard when bills are due.

I totally understand the financial stress. Maybe set up payment arrangements with utilities or other bills if you're worried about timing. Most companies are understanding about unemployment delays.

In my experience, the day you file doesn't really matter for processing speed. It's more about their overall volume and any verification issues with your specific claim.

That makes sense. I was probably overthinking it, but when you're waiting for money you need, every detail feels important.