What number do I call to file for unemployment with Washington ESD?

The main Washington ESD customer service number is 800-318-6022, but honestly you're probably better off filing online at esd.wa.gov. The phone lines are usually swamped and you'll spend hours trying to get through.

You really should file online if possible - it's much faster than waiting on the phone. What specific questions do you have? Most situations are pretty straightforward for initial filing.

I was in the same boat trying to reach Washington ESD by phone last month. Spent literally days trying to get through. Then someone told me about this service called Claimyr that helps you get connected to ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration!

Pro tip: If you do call 800-318-6022, press 1 for English, then 1 again for new claims. But seriously, the online system works fine for most people and you can file 24/7.

Just to add - once you do file your initial claim (online or by phone), you'll need to file weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. That part you definitely want to do online because it's much easier.

why is it so hard to reach these people?? i've been trying for 3 days straight and keep getting hung up on. this is ridiculous when people need help with their benefits

I managed to get through last week after calling about 50 times over 3 days. The agent was helpful once I got connected, but man what a process. Try calling right at 8:00 AM sharp when they open.

For what it's worth, I filed online and it was pretty straightforward. Took maybe 20 minutes and I didn't have any issues. Unless you have a really complex situation, might be worth trying the online route first.

The phone system is a joke. I called 800-318-6022 probably 100 times over two weeks before I finally got through. Even then, the agent could barely help because my case was 'complicated'.

I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and it actually worked. Got connected to a Washington ESD agent in about 30 minutes instead of spending all day trying. Worth checking out if you're stuck.

Been there with the endless calling. One trick that sometimes works is calling the Spanish line at 800-318-6022 and pressing 2 for Spanish, then asking to be transferred to an English speaker. Sometimes less busy.

Whatever you do, don't wait to file your claim. You can't get benefits for weeks before you file, even if you were unemployed. File online at esd.wa.gov and deal with any complications later.

The Washington ESD phone system is designed to discourage people from calling. They want everyone to use the online system. For basic filing, it works fine. For complex issues, you're going to have a bad time trying to reach them.

I know everyone says file online, but some of us older folks aren't comfortable with computers. The phone should be an option that actually works. It's ridiculous that a government agency makes it this hard to get help.

For filing your initial claim, seriously just go online. The phone is only worth it if you have ongoing issues with your claim that can't be resolved through the website. Save yourself the headache.

I work at a local workforce center and help people with unemployment claims regularly. While 800-318-6022 is the right number, here's what I tell everyone: file your initial claim online at esd.wa.gov first, even if you have questions. The system will flag any issues that need human review, and then you'll have a specific reason to call (like "my claim is pending adjudication" rather than general questions). This makes the phone conversation much more productive when you do get through. Also, keep all your employment documents handy - W2s, pay stubs, separation notice - you'll need dates and wage info regardless of how you file.