What happens if I file for unemployment with Washington ESD - step by step process?

The process is pretty straightforward once you get started. After you file your initial application on the Washington ESD website, you'll get a confirmation number. Within a few days, you should receive mail with your weekly claim instructions and your Personal Identification Number (PIN). You'll need to file weekly claims every week to continue receiving benefits.

Here's what typically happens step by step: 1) You file online at esd.wa.gov 2) Washington ESD reviews your application 3) They may contact your previous employer(s) to verify information 4) If there are no issues, you get approved and start filing weekly claims 5) If there are questions, your claim goes into adjudication which can take several weeks to resolve.

I just went through this process last month and honestly the hardest part was getting through to someone at Washington ESD when I had questions. The phone lines are always busy and their online messaging system is slow. I ended up using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually get connected to an agent - they have this system that calls you back when an agent is available instead of waiting on hold forever. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

One thing to know is that you have to meet work search requirements every week. In Washington, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. They can audit this at any time so make sure you're actually doing real job searches, not just random applications.

just file it, the worst thing that happens is they say no but at least you tried. i put mine off for like 2 weeks and wish i hadnt because you cant get backpay for that time

Make sure you have all your information ready before you start: Social Security number, employment history for the last 18 months (employer names, addresses, dates worked, reason for leaving), and your bank account info if you want direct deposit. The application takes about 30-45 minutes if you have everything prepared.

I'm confused about something - if I was laid off do I still have to look for work? My old boss said they might bring me back in a few months.

The system is so confusing! I filed 2 weeks ago and still haven't received anything. Should I be worried?

Don't forget that if you're approved, you need to file your weekly claim EVERY week, even if you worked some hours or made some money. You report everything and they calculate your benefits accordingly. Missing a week means you don't get paid for that week.

ugh the washington esd website is such a pain to navigate. took me forever to find the right application form and then it kept timing out

One important thing - make sure your address is correct because they'll mail important documents including your determination letter. If you move during your claim, update your address immediately through your online account.

I had to file an appeal because my employer lied about why I was terminated. That whole process took 3 months but I eventually won and got all my back benefits. Don't give up if your initial claim is denied.

Also be aware that unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld or pay them when you file your tax return. I learned this the hard way!

my biggest advice is to read everything they send you carefully. i almost missed an important deadline because i thought some mail was just junk

The benefit amount depends on your earnings in your base period (first 4 of the last 5 quarters). Washington ESD will calculate this automatically, but you can get an estimate using their online calculator before you file.

I second the recommendation about Claimyr if you need to talk to someone. I used it when my claim was stuck in adjudication for weeks and finally got answers about what documents they needed from me.

Just remember that the waiting week has been eliminated in Washington, so you can get paid for your first week if you're eligible. This is different from some other states.

The bottom line is just file as soon as possible. You can't get benefits for weeks before you file, and the process takes time even when everything goes smoothly. Better to get started and figure things out as you go.

Pro tip: keep screenshots of everything you submit online, including confirmation numbers. If there are any issues later, having that documentation can save you a lot of hassle.

And remember to report any work or income every week when you file your weekly claim, even if it's just a few hours. Being honest upfront prevents overpayment issues later.