What info do you need to file for unemployment with Washington ESD?

You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, employment history for the last 18 months (employer names, addresses, dates worked, reason for separation), and bank account info if you want direct deposit. Also helpful to have your most recent pay stub.

make sure you have your employer's federal tax ID number too, that can speed things up. and if you were laid off get any paperwork from HR about the layoff

I just went through this process and it's pretty straightforward once you have everything ready. The Washington ESD online application walks you through each step. One thing I wish I'd known - if you can't reach them by phone to ask questions, there's actually a service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Don't forget you also need to be able to work and available for work when you file. They ask about any medical conditions or other reasons you might not be able to accept a job immediately.

IMPORTANT: File your claim the week you become unemployed, not before! I made that mistake and it delayed everything. Washington ESD is very strict about when you can start your claim.

The online application asks for your gross wages from each employer in your base period. If you don't have exact amounts, estimates are okay but try to be as accurate as possible since it affects your benefit amount.

if you worked in other states recently you might need to file an interstate claim. washington esd can help figure that out but it's more complicated

One tip - before you file, make sure you understand the job search requirements. You'll need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep detailed records. The requirements are pretty specific about what counts.

Make sure your contact information is current and check your email regularly. Washington ESD sends important notices electronically and if you miss something it can mess up your benefits.

The application will ask about any severance pay, vacation pay, or other compensation you're receiving. Be honest about this stuff because they cross-check with employers and if there are discrepancies it can trigger an adjudication investigation.

Pro tip: take screenshots of your completed application before you submit it. If there are any issues later, you'll have proof of what you originally submitted.

I had to call Washington ESD three times during my application process to clarify things. If you run into issues, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier actually worked for me. Saved me hours of trying to get through on my own.

don't stress too much about having every single detail perfect. you can always provide additional info later if needed. the important thing is to get your claim filed quickly

Just remember that after you file your initial claim, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to actually receive benefits. The initial application just establishes your eligibility.

If you're laid off due to lack of work, make sure your employer knows you're filing for unemployment. Sometimes they need to respond to Washington ESD requests for information about your separation.

The whole process seems overwhelming at first but it's really not that bad. Washington ESD has gotten better at making the online system user-friendly. Just gather your documents and take it step by step.

Last thing - if your claim gets flagged for adjudication for any reason, don't panic. It's pretty common and usually resolves within a few weeks. Just respond to any requests for information promptly.

One more vote for that Claimyr service if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. I was skeptical at first but it really does work. Better than spending all day hitting redial.

You've got this! The key is just being prepared with your information and filing as soon as you're eligible. Washington ESD processes thousands of claims every week so they've got the system down pretty well.