What is unemployment in Washington ESD - confused about the whole system

Oh that makes more sense! So it's like insurance that I already paid for? How much can I expect to get?

Exactly! Your weekly benefit amount depends on your earnings during your base period (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you filed). Washington ESD calculates it automatically when you apply.

What do you mean getting through on the phone? Don't I just apply online?

You apply online but if there are any issues with your claim, you'll need to talk to someone. Good luck with that - I've been trying for weeks.

Is this legit? Sounds too good to be true.

Totally legit. I was skeptical too but it actually got me connected to an agent in under an hour instead of spending days redialing.

Bookmarking this for later, thanks!

What counts as a job contact? Does applying online count?

Yes, online applications count. You can also do informational interviews, attend job fairs, networking events. Keep detailed records in your job search log.

Adjudication means they're reviewing something about your claim that needs investigation - could be your reason for separation, work search activities, or identity verification.

well that's helpful to know but doesn't get me any closer to getting paid...

What's a waiting week?

It's the first week of your claim where you won't receive benefits even if you're approved. It's like a deductible.

That's so messed up. Why would they want to discourage people?

It's more about preventing fraud than discouraging legitimate claims, though I agree the process can be frustrating.

Glad it worked for you too! It's been a lifesaver.

Definitely checking this out if I run into issues with my claim.

I was actually fired, not laid off. Does that matter?

Yes, it matters a lot. If you were fired for misconduct, you might not qualify. If you were fired for poor performance or inability to do the work, you probably still qualify.

In Washington, regular UI is up to 26 weeks maximum, but it depends on your work history. Some people qualify for fewer weeks based on their base period earnings.

Got it. And I have to file something every week?

Yes, you file a weekly claim every week you want to receive benefits, even if you haven't found work yet. It's due by midnight on Saturday for the previous week.

Good to know! I was going to try doing it on my phone tonight.

What if I don't have my last pay stub? The restaurant just shut down suddenly.

You can request wage records from Washington ESD, but it might slow down your claim processing. Try contacting the restaurant owner or payroll company if possible.

Is that a separate website? This is getting complicated...

Yes, worksourcewa.com. You don't have to register immediately but you'll need it eventually for the job search requirements.

That's exactly why I always recommend it now. The phone system is just broken otherwise.

What if I do some gig work like DoorDash while looking for a real job?

You have to report all earnings, including gig work. They'll reduce your weekly benefit amount but you might still get partial benefits.

What happens if there's an overpayment?

They'll want the money back, sometimes with penalties. You can appeal if you think it's wrong, but it's a hassle you want to avoid.

Same here! It's crazy that we need a third party service just to contact our own state agency but whatever works.

Thank you everyone! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much less overwhelmed now and know what to expect.

Good luck with your claim! Feel free to ask questions if you run into issues.

Excellent! Remember to file your first weekly claim this weekend even if you haven't heard back about approval yet.

And save that Claimyr link just in case you need to contact them later!