What is the Washington ESD unemployment office phone number - can't find it anywhere

The main Washington ESD customer service number is 800-318-6022. That's the one you want for claim issues. But honestly, good luck getting through - I've been trying for days and it's always busy.

Yeah that's the right number but prepare to spend your entire day trying to get through. The phone system is absolutely terrible. I must have called 200+ times before I finally got someone on the line.

I was in the same boat trying to reach Washington ESD about my adjudication that had been stuck for weeks. After calling hundreds of times with no luck, I found this service called Claimyr that actually got me through to an agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Basically they handle all the calling for you and connect you when they get an agent on the line.

For what it's worth, there are also some specific department numbers depending on your issue. If you're having trouble with your weekly claim certification, there's a separate line for that. If it's about job search requirements, that's another department. The main 800-318-6022 number should be able to transfer you though.

ugh same problem here, been trying to call for DAYS and cant get thru. this is so frustrating when you need help with your claim

Just an FYI - I've heard the best times to call are right when they open at 8am or during lunch time around 12-1pm. The call volume is supposedly lower then, but I still haven't had any luck.

There's also a chat feature on the Washington ESD website but it's usually offline or has huge wait times. Sometimes you can submit a message through SecureAccess Washington but don't expect a quick response.

I've been dealing with Washington ESD for months now and honestly the phone system is broken. I've probably called 500+ times total and only gotten through twice. It's completely unacceptable.

Pro tip: if you do get through to someone, have all your information ready - claim number, social security number, employment history, etc. They might transfer you or hang up if you're not prepared with everything they need.

Just wanted to add that if your claim is in adjudication, you might also want to try calling the adjudication line directly. I think it's a different number but I don't remember what it is off the top of my head.

I was skeptical about Claimyr too but after wasting literally weeks trying to call Washington ESD myself, I decided to give it a shot. Got connected to an agent within a few hours and resolved my issue that same day. Sometimes you just have to weigh the cost vs. your time and sanity.

Another option is to try calling right before they close at 4pm. Sometimes the call volume drops off then too. But honestly, the whole system is a mess and needs to be fixed.

Just keep trying the main number. I know it's frustrating but eventually you'll get through. Make sure you're calling from a phone number that's on file with Washington ESD or they might not take your call.

has anyone tried calling the local workforce office instead? sometimes they can help with basic questions

I feel your pain. Been trying to reach them for 3 weeks about my disqualification. The phone system is absolutely broken and needs to be completely overhauled.

UPDATE: I just tried calling 800-318-6022 and got through after about 45 minutes! The agent was really helpful and cleared up my issue. So it is possible, just takes patience.

For anyone reading this thread, just be prepared that calling Washington ESD is going to be an all-day affair. Clear your schedule, get comfortable, and start dialing early. The system is broken but it's what we have to work with.

The fact that we're all here sharing tips on how to reach a government agency that's supposed to serve us is pretty ridiculous. But anyway, good luck to everyone trying to get through.

thanks for posting this question OP, i was wondering the same thing. gonna try calling tomorrow morning

Final thought - if you do manage to get through to Washington ESD, be really nice to the agent. They're dealing with frustrated people all day and a little kindness goes a long way. They're more likely to help you if you're patient and polite.