When can I file unemployment claim - Washington ESD timing questions

Thanks! So I should file on Sunday after my last day? I heard the system is easier to use on weekends.

You can file any day, but yes, Sunday through Tuesday tends to have less traffic on the Washington ESD website.

Good point, I'll get my pay stubs together. Do they need the most recent one or several months worth?

They'll ask for your gross wages from your last 18 months of work, so having recent pay stubs helps but they get most info directly from employers.

Is that one of those paid services? I'm trying to save money since I'm about to be unemployed.

Yeah it costs something but honestly worth it when you can't get through otherwise. Better than calling for days and never reaching anyone.

This is accurate. I waited a few days and regretted it. Every day counts when you're waiting for benefits to start.

I am getting two weeks severance. Does that mean I can't file for two weeks?

You can still file, but you'll need to report the severance and you won't get benefits for the weeks it covers. File anyway to get your claim started.

This happened to me - got 4 weeks severance and had to wait but at least my claim was already in the system when the severance period ended.

No, you have to wait until you're actually separated from employment. Washington ESD requires you to be unemployed through no fault of your own on the day you file.

Okay, so the day after my last day is when I should file then.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week? I heard it's 3 but wasn't sure if that's still current.

Yes, it's still 3 job contacts per week unless you're in a union or have other approved activities. Keep detailed records of where you applied and when.

When do I file the weekly claims? Is it the same day each week?

You can file weekly claims starting Sunday for the previous week. Most people do it Sunday mornings. Set a reminder so you don't forget.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. The regular phone system is basically useless during busy times.

yeah i might try that next time, spent whole days trying to call

Exactly right. And don't forget to file your weekly claims every week after that.

Perfect summary. You've got this! The process is straightforward once you know what to expect.

Good tip about the company name. I'll make sure to copy it exactly from my paystub.

What causes adjudication? Want to avoid that if possible.

Usually happens when there's a question about your separation reason or work history. As long as you're truthful and complete in your application, you should be fine.

And if you do get stuck in adjudication and need to talk to someone, that's another good use case for Claimyr - they can actually get you through to someone who can explain what's happening with your claim.

Agreed, I did everything online and it was much easier than dealing with the phone.

How long is the delay typically?

Usually 2-3 weeks for your first payment if everything goes smoothly. After that it's weekly.

Can I set up direct deposit later if I forget during the initial filing?

Yes, you can add it later through your eServices account, but it's easier to do it upfront.

My layoff is permanent, so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Yeah, I only found out about it after getting frustrated myself. Now I tell everyone about it because the regular phone system is so broken.

Great advice, I'll definitely document everything. Thanks everyone for all the help!