What to do after filing for unemployment - confused about next steps

Thanks! Should I be doing anything in the meantime or just wait for the mail?

You can start documenting your job search activities now since you'll need to report them when you file your first weekly claim. Keep records of where you apply and any contacts you make.

If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD by phone, you might want to try Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to an actual agent - check out claimyr.com. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works.

Never heard of that before but I'm desperate at this point. Will check it out thanks

How do I know when to start filing weekly claims? I don't see that option in my account yet.

It usually becomes available after your first week of unemployment. Check your account every few days - the option will appear under 'File Weekly Claim' when it's time.

This is confusing me too. I thought you couldn't file weekly claims until your initial claim was approved?

What counts as a job search contact? Just applying online or do I need to do more?

Submitting applications counts, but you can also attend job fairs, contact employers directly, network with people in your field, or participate in WorkSource workshops. Keep detailed records of everything.

What specific questions do you have? The system can be overwhelming but once you understand the basic steps it gets easier to navigate.

like do i need to register with worksource right away or can i wait? and when exactly do i start filing weekly claims?

What causes a claim to go into adjudication? Is that something I should be worried about?

Adjudication happens when Washington ESD needs additional information to determine eligibility. Common reasons include job separation issues, wage discrepancies, or identity verification. It's not necessarily bad, just takes longer to process.

Good point, I should double-check my contact info. Can I update it after filing or do I need to call?

You can update most info through your SecureAccess Washington account, but some changes might require calling or submitting paperwork.

You can estimate your weekly benefit amount using the formula on Washington ESD's website. It's based on your highest earning quarter from the past year.

I tried that calculator but I'm not sure I'm interpreting my wage history correctly. Might be easier to just wait for the official determination.

That's great news! What documents did they need for identity verification?

Driver's license, Social Security card, and a recent utility bill. Pretty standard stuff but the website didn't make it clear that's what was needed.

Wait, so I won't get benefits for this week even if everything goes smoothly?

Exactly. The first week is unpaid but you still need to file a weekly claim for it. It's just how the system works in Washington.

This confused me too when I first filed. You'll get paid starting from your second week of unemployment if approved.

It depends on your situation. Some people are required to participate in reemployment services, others it's optional but can be helpful. Check your determination letter when you get it - it will specify any requirements.

havent gotten my determination letter yet but i guess it cant hurt to schedule something

How common are these audits? Now I'm worried about getting selected.

They're pretty rare but it happens. As long as you're honest about your job search activities and keep good records, you'll be fine if selected.

Good advice! I'll make sure to set that up once my claim is processed.

You can usually set up direct deposit during the initial claim process or add it later through your SecureAccess Washington account.

Yes, you must report all work and earnings when filing your weekly claim. Washington has a partial benefit formula that reduces your weekly amount based on how much you earn, but you might still qualify for some benefits.

Thanks, that's helpful to know. I was worried taking any work would disqualify me completely.

This is reassuring to hear. I tend to overthink things so I'm probably making it more complicated than it needs to be.

Exactly! The system works as long as you follow the basic requirements. Don't stress too much about it.

Smart idea. I'll set up a recurring reminder once I'm eligible to start filing.

Yeah it becomes second nature after a few weeks. Much better than scrambling to remember if you filed or not.

This is so true. I waited way too long before trying to contact Washington ESD about my delayed claim. Could have saved myself a lot of stress.

For anyone still having trouble reaching Washington ESD by phone, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier has been helpful for several people in this thread. Worth considering if you're stuck.

Same here! This thread has been incredibly helpful. Glad I'm not the only one who was confused about the next steps.

Happy to help! Feel free to ask if you run into any other questions as you go through the process.

Already done! Thanks for all the advice everyone. This community is amazing.

Good luck with your claim! The first few weeks are always the most uncertain but it gets easier once you establish the routine.

This is really good advice! I worked in Oregon for part of last year before moving to Washington, so I should definitely check if those wages are included. How do I request a wage review if something is missing?