What is a waiting week unemployment - Washington ESD won't pay first week?

That's so frustrating! Why do they make people wait when they're already struggling financially?

I think it's supposed to discourage people from filing claims for very short periods of unemployment, but it definitely hurts when you need the money immediately.

What circumstances would allow you to get paid for the waiting week later?

If you exhaust all your regular benefits and meet certain requirements, Washington ESD may pay the waiting week. But it's not guaranteed - you'd need to check with them directly.

How does that work? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days with no luck.

They basically handle the calling for you and get you connected when an agent is available. Saved me hours of frustration trying to get through the busy signals.

I understand the frustration, but the waiting week has been part of unemployment systems in most states for decades. It's meant to ensure people are genuinely unemployed and not just taking a brief break.

still seems unfair when people are already struggling to pay bills

Good point! I almost didn't file it since I knew I wouldn't get paid. Thanks for the reminder.

Yeah I made that mistake on my first claim years ago and it messed up my whole benefit calculation.

The waiting week applies to all unemployment claims in Washington, regardless of the reason for separation. However, if you quit your job, you might face additional issues beyond just the waiting week - like a disqualification period.

I was laid off due to lack of work, so I should be okay on that front. Just dealing with the waiting week frustration.

That's exactly what I thought too! I was worried something was wrong with my claim.

Washington ESD really should make this clearer in their initial communications. Would save people a lot of confusion and unnecessary calls.

Ugh, so it could be almost a month before I see any money? This is going to be really tight financially.

Check if you qualify for any emergency assistance programs in your county while you're waiting for unemployment benefits to start.

Yes, you need to report any work and earnings during your waiting week just like any other week. If you earn too much, it could affect your ongoing eligibility for benefits.

Good to know. I'll make sure to report everything accurately on my weekly claim.

Is that service legit? I'm always skeptical of third-party services for government stuff.

I was skeptical too but it worked exactly as advertised. They don't ask for any personal info - just help you get connected to Washington ESD directly.

It definitely would have been helpful to know about this before filing. I could have planned better financially.

Washington ESD mentions it in their handbook, but honestly, who reads all that when you're stressed about losing your job?

You won't get paid for your first week (the waiting week), but you should get paid for your second week of unemployment, assuming your claim is approved and you meet all requirements. There might be a few days processing delay though.

ok that makes sense. thanks for explaining it simply

completely agree. the system feels designed to discourage people from getting help they legally qualify for

While I understand the frustration, the waiting week does serve some administrative purposes in managing the unemployment system. But policy changes would need to go through the state legislature.

No, the waiting week doesn't reduce your total number of benefit weeks. If you're eligible for 26 weeks of benefits, you'll still get 26 weeks of payments - just not for that first waiting week.

That's a relief at least. Thanks for clarifying that!

That's actually good advice. I'll try to see it as a productive week rather than just a frustrating delay.

I did the same thing - used my waiting week to update my resume and LinkedIn profile. Made the most of the time.

That's a good suggestion. I'll look into what resources are available in my area.

211 is a good resource too - just dial 2-1-1 and they can connect you with local assistance programs.

Thanks for the encouragement. It helps to hear from someone who's been through it recently.

You'll get through it! The first few weeks are always the most stressful until you get into a routine with the system.

I might have to try that. I've been trying to reach Washington ESD for a week with no success.

It's worth it just for the peace of mind. Being able to actually talk to someone who can answer your questions makes such a difference.

Thanks everyone for all the explanations and advice. I feel much better understanding what to expect now.

Good luck with your claim! The waiting week will be behind you before you know it.