What is the number to file for unemployment with Washington ESD?

I tried the website but it seems confusing to me. I'm not great with computers and would rather talk to a real person if possible.

I get it, but honestly the online system is pretty straightforward once you start. Just have your social security number, last employer info, and work history ready.

Thank you! I'll try calling tomorrow morning. Do you know what information they'll need from me when I call?

You'll need your SSN, driver's license, employment history for the last 18 months, and reason for separation from your last job. Have pay stubs handy if you have them.

This is exactly why I ended up using Claimyr (claimyr.com) - they actually get you connected to a real Washington ESD agent without the endless hold times. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Never heard of that before. How does it work exactly? Is it legit?

Yeah it's totally legitimate. They basically handle the waiting and calling for you, then connect you when they get an actual agent on the line. Saved me hours of frustration honestly.

I might have to try that if I can't get through by phone. Did you have any problems with the online system?

nah worked fine for me. just make sure you have all your info ready before you start

Actually in Washington you should file as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. There's no specific deadline but the sooner the better since benefits are calculated from when you file, not when you lost your job.

Good to know, thanks. I definitely want to get this filed today or tomorrow then.

That's helpful. I worked at a few different places over the past year so I'll need to gather all that info first.

Make sure you list all employers from the last 18 months, even short-term jobs. It affects your benefit calculation.

I hear you on the frustration. Have you tried using different numbers? Sometimes the technical support line (855-682-0785) has shorter waits.

I'll try that number, thanks. At this point I'm willing to try anything.

Good advice. I'll make sure to have everything organized before I call.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money being unemployed.

It's worth checking out their site for pricing info. For me it was worth it just to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD without the runaround.

Maybe I'll give the online system another try. I was probably just overwhelmed when I first looked at it.

Yeah, take your time with it. You can save your progress and come back to it later if you need to find more information.

Good to know I have that option. I'll keep that in mind when I call.

Oh I didn't realize there were two different things. So I file once to get approved, then file every week to get the money?

Exactly. The initial claim establishes your eligibility and benefit amount. Then you file weekly claims to certify that you're still unemployed and looking for work.

Seems like a lot of people have had success with that service. I might look into it if I can't get through the regular way.

Job search requirements? What exactly do I need to do for that?

You have to do 3 job search activities per week and keep a log. WorkSource has the details but it includes things like applying for jobs, networking, going to job fairs, etc.

That's a good backup plan. I'll look up where the nearest WorkSource office is just in case.

Thanks everyone for all the advice! I feel a lot more prepared now to tackle this process.