What you need for unemployment application in Washington - complete checklist?

You'll definitely need your Social Security number, but also gather employment information for the last 18 months - employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation. Washington ESD will ask for your gross wages during your base period quarters. Don't forget your alien registration number if you're not a US citizen.

Here's what you need for unemployment in Washington: 1) SSN or Individual Taxpayer ID, 2) Driver's license or state ID, 3) Complete work history for last 18 months including employer contact info, 4) Bank account info for direct deposit, 5) If you're not a citizen, your work authorization documents. Make sure you have accurate dates and addresses for all employers.

I just went through this process last month and the most important thing is having accurate employer information. Washington ESD will contact your employers to verify everything, so make sure addresses and phone numbers are current. Also, if you were fired or quit, be prepared to explain the circumstances honestly.

One thing people forget is that you need to be ready to start your job search immediately. Washington ESD requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week, so start thinking about where you'll apply. Also, register with WorkSource Washington as soon as possible after filing.

Don't forget to have your banking information ready if you want direct deposit. It's so much faster than waiting for a debit card to arrive in the mail. You'll need your routing number and account number.

Make sure you apply as soon as possible after your last day of work. You can't backdate your claim, so every week you wait is a week of potential benefits you're losing. Also, be honest about everything - Washington ESD will verify your information and lying can disqualify you permanently.

I've been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks about my application that's stuck in adjudication. The phone lines are always busy and I can never get through to an actual person. It's incredibly frustrating when you need help with your claim.

Another thing - if you worked in multiple states, you might need to file in the state where you earned the most wages during your base period. Washington ESD can help determine where you should file, but gather employment info from all states just in case.

Don't forget about union membership if applicable. Washington ESD needs to know if you're in a union and whether they have a hiring hall. This can affect your job search requirements.

Make sure you understand the difference between gross and net wages when reporting your earnings. Washington ESD wants gross wages (before taxes and deductions). I made this mistake initially and it caused confusion.

If you're filing online (which I recommend), make sure you have a stable internet connection and enough time to complete the application in one sitting. The system can time out if you take too long.

One more thing - if you have any military service, bring your DD-214. Veterans sometimes have special considerations for unemployment benefits, and Washington ESD needs to see your discharge papers.

Be prepared for the fact that your first payment might be delayed while Washington ESD processes everything. Even if you do everything perfectly, there's usually a waiting period before you see any money.

Remember that you need to file your weekly claims every week to continue receiving benefits, even during the initial waiting period. Don't skip weeks thinking you'll start later - you need to establish the pattern immediately.

Last tip - keep detailed records of everything. Save confirmation numbers, print out your application, and keep a log of all your job search activities. If there are ever any questions about your claim, you'll have documentation to back up your answers.

I second the recommendation for Claimyr if you run into problems reaching Washington ESD. I was stuck in adjudication for 6 weeks and couldn't get through on the phone. Claimyr got me connected to an agent who resolved my issue in one call. Worth every penny when you're not getting your benefits.

Don't forget to update your contact information if you move or change phone numbers. Washington ESD needs to be able to reach you, and if they can't, it can cause delays or even suspension of your benefits.

If you're self-employed or worked as an independent contractor, the requirements might be different. You might not qualify for regular unemployment but could be eligible for other programs. Make sure to mention all types of work you've done.

Thanks everyone for all this helpful information! I feel much more prepared to file my claim now. I'm going to gather all my employment info this weekend and file online early next week. Hopefully everything goes smoothly, but at least I know what to expect and have resources like Claimyr if I need help reaching Washington ESD.

One important thing to add - if you've received any severance pay or vacation payout, make sure to report this accurately. Washington ESD needs to know about any money you received after your last day of work, as it can affect when your benefits start. The severance might delay your first payment, but it's better to be upfront about it than have them find out later and create complications with your claim.