What is the current rate of unemployment in Washington state - does it affect my claim?

That makes sense about the processing delays. Do you know if there's anywhere to check current unemployment stats for Washington?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes monthly unemployment data for each state. You can also check Washington State Employment Security Department's website for local stats.

Same here! I've tried calling at different times but can never get through. It's like they don't want to help people.

I had the same problem until I found claimyr.com - it's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They have this video demo (https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ) that shows how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call.

Is that legit? How much does it cost?

Yeah it's real, they just help you get connected to actual Washington ESD staff. The value is worth it when you consider how much time you save not being on hold all day.

Thanks for the specific numbers. I was worried my benefits might be reduced if unemployment was too low.

No your benefits are set by law based on your work history. The only thing that changes is maybe how busy Washington ESD gets with processing claims.

Staffing at Washington ESD is based on their budget allocation, not the unemployment rate directly. Though higher unemployment might lead to more funding for staff.

I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and actually got through to a Washington ESD agent the same day. They explained my adjudication issue and it was resolved within a week after that call.

really? might have to try that claimyr thing if its legit

Good to know where to find the official numbers. Is low unemployment good or bad for people like us trying to get benefits?

Low unemployment generally means fewer people filing claims, so theoretically shorter processing times. But other factors like staffing and system issues can override that.

Six months?! That's horrible. What kind of overpayment issue?

They said I didn't report some part-time work correctly from last year. Trying to appeal it but can't get anyone on the phone to explain exactly what I did wrong.

For overpayment appeals you really need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. That Claimyr service might be worth it in your situation since you've been trying for so long.

You're right, I should focus on what I can control. Just anxious about the adjudication delay.

Adjudication delays are super common right now. Just keep filing your weekly claims even while it's pending.

That sounds about right for the recent data.

Yeah Washington typically has lower unemployment than the national average.

They don't publish specific timeframes for adjudication because it varies so much case by case. Some take a few days, others take weeks depending on complexity.

My adjudication took 4 weeks but only because I was able to get through to someone at Washington ESD who explained what additional documents they needed from me.

How did you manage to get through? I've been trying for days.

I used Claimyr after seeing it mentioned in another forum. Worth checking out if you're stuck like I was.

That's interesting about the job training connection. I might look into WorkSource programs once my claim gets approved.

WorkSource has some good resources. They can help with your job search log requirements too.

Same here! This community is way more helpful than trying to navigate the Washington ESD website alone.