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

Thank you! Do I need pay stubs or will they get that info from my employer directly?

Washington ESD gets wage info from employers automatically, but keep your recent pay stubs handy in case there are questions during adjudication.

Is that a separate website or part of the Washington ESD site?

It's worksourcewa.com - separate site but you'll need to link it to your unemployment claim.

Good to know! Should I file on my last day or wait until the next week starts?

File the Sunday after your last day of work. That starts your benefit year and you can claim that first full week.

Actually you should file as soon as you're unemployed, don't wait for Sunday. The sooner you file the better.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money.

It's worth checking out their site for details. For me it was worth it to avoid the calling nightmare and get my questions answered quickly.

Honestly I was skeptical about services like that but when I was stuck in adjudication for weeks I tried Claimyr and finally got through to someone who could explain what was happening with my claim.

How do I check if my wages were reported correctly?

You can see your wage history in your Washington ESD account after you file. Compare it to your pay stubs to make sure everything matches.

That sounds frustrating! What kind of documents are they asking for?

identity verification stuff even though i uploaded my drivers license and social security card. the system is broken

Sometimes the document upload doesn't work properly. Try calling or using secure messaging in your account to confirm they received everything.

Good advice! Should I print everything out too or are screenshots enough?

I do both - screenshots for quick reference and printed copies for my records. Better safe than sorry with government systems.

Wait so even if I file right away I won't get paid for the first week?

Correct - it's like a deductible. You serve one waiting week then benefits start if you're eligible.

But you still have to file your weekly claim for that waiting week! Don't skip it or it messes up your claim.

What counts as a job search contact? Just applying for jobs or other things too?

Applying for jobs, contacting employers directly, networking activities, job fairs, career counseling sessions. There's a list on the Washington ESD website of approved activities.

How do I know if I'll be eligible if I was let go? It wasn't for cause or anything like that.

If it was a layoff or reduction in force you should be fine. If there was any misconduct involved that's where it gets complicated and you might need to appeal.

This is exactly when having a service like Claimyr becomes valuable - when you're stuck in adjudication and need to talk to someone about your case.

Good question, I hope someone can answer this!

You need a mailing address where Washington ESD can send correspondence. Can be a friend's address, PO box, or homeless shelter. Just make sure you update it if you move.

Thanks, that's a relief. This whole situation is stressful enough without worrying about the address thing.

Is there anything the online system can't handle that would require calling?

Complex situations like interstate claims, military service, or unusual work arrangements sometimes need phone help but try online first.

What kind of records should I keep besides the application confirmation?

Weekly claim confirmations, job search logs, any correspondence with Washington ESD, bank deposit records, basically everything related to your claim.

Do they reduce your benefits dollar for dollar if you get severance?

It depends on how the severance is structured. Some counts as wages and delays eligibility, some doesn't. Be honest about it when you file.

Do you remember what page that checklist was on? That sounds super helpful.

Look under 'Apply for Benefits' on the main page. There's a section called 'Before You Apply' with the full list.

Thanks for the encouragement! Did you have any major issues or did it go pretty smoothly?

Had to verify my identity which added about a week, but otherwise straightforward. The hardest part was getting through on the phone when I had questions, which is why I ended up using Claimyr to reach an agent.

That's good to know! How long does it save your progress?

I think it's 30 days but don't quote me on that. Check the website for the exact timeout period.