What number to apply for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Seriously? That's so frustrating. I hate doing complicated stuff online. Are you sure there's no way to apply by phone?

100% sure. They switched to online-only applications a few years ago. The online system is actually pretty straightforward once you get started.

How long did it take for your claim to get processed? I'm worried about the waiting period.

mine took about 5 days to get approved but I know some people wait weeks if there are issues

How much does that cost? I don't want to pay a bunch of money just to make a phone call.

It's way cheaper than taking time off work to keep calling. Plus it actually works - I got through in like 20 minutes when I'd been trying for days.

Thank you! This is exactly what I needed. Do I need to have exact dates for all my previous jobs?

Yes, try to be as accurate as possible with employment dates and wages. Washington ESD will verify this information with your employers.

Also make sure you have your most recent pay stub handy. They ask for your last day worked and final pay amount.

I understand the frustration, but the online system is actually more efficient once you get used to it. You can check your claim status 24/7 and file weekly claims without waiting on hold.

I guess... I just wish they still had the option to talk to a real person for the initial application.

Wait, so even if I file today I won't get paid for this week?

That's correct. Washington has a one-week waiting period. Your first payable week would be next week if you file this week.

That's the correct customer service number, but it's extremely busy. Most people have better luck calling right when they open at 8 AM or trying the online chat feature.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - that number is basically impossible to get through on your own. The service got me connected to an actual Washington ESD agent when I needed help with my claim.

This is good advice. I almost didn't file because I thought I made too much money, but it turns out I qualified for partial benefits.

That's encouraging. I was worried because I got severance pay but maybe that won't disqualify me completely.

Good to know. I was planning to do it first thing tomorrow morning.

Maybe try around 10 AM or later. The system tends to be more responsive then.

Oh wow, I would have definitely put in the wrong amount. Thanks for the heads up!

Yes, always use gross wages. Washington ESD needs to see your total earnings before any deductions.

The application should save automatically as you go, but I'd recommend gathering all your information first and completing it in one session to be safe.

yeah I had to start over once when my internet went out halfway through. now I always have everything ready before I start

You can file your initial application 24/7 online. The website doesn't have business hours restrictions for applications.

That's a relief. I was worried I'd have to wait until Monday since I got laid off on Friday.

And check your spam folder! I almost missed an important message because it went to junk mail.

Good point. I'll make sure to add their email to my contacts so it doesn't get filtered.

You need to start your job search activities immediately after filing. Washington requires 3 job search activities per week and you'll need to report them on your weekly claims.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs or other things too?

Job applications, networking events, career fairs, informational interviews, and approved training programs all count. Keep detailed records of everything.

Most straightforward claims are processed within 1-2 weeks. You'll get a monetary determination letter showing your weekly benefit amount if approved.

Mine took 3 weeks because they had to verify my employment with my previous employer. Don't panic if it takes a little longer.

You can't edit the application once submitted, but you can call Washington ESD to report corrections. Minor errors usually aren't a big deal, but significant mistakes should be reported ASAP.

This is another situation where Claimyr really helped me. I needed to talk to someone about a mistake I made and they got me through to an agent who corrected it over the phone.

When do I file my first weekly claim? Is it the week I got laid off or the week after I file?

You file for the week you were unemployed, starting with the week you lost your job. Your first weekly claim would be for the week you were laid off.

Same here! I was dreading it but now I feel like I can actually do this.

That's exactly why these forums are so helpful. The process seems scary until you break it down step by step.

Wait, so I need two different accounts?

You need a SAW account to access Washington ESD services. Think of SAW as the login system for all Washington state services, including unemployment benefits.

Thank you! I'm going to gather all my paperwork tonight and file tomorrow morning. This thread has been incredibly helpful.