When can u file for unemployment with Washington ESD - timing questions

ok so literally the day after my last day? or can i file on my last day if its like afternoon?

You can file on your last day once your work shift ends. The key is that you're no longer employed when you submit the application.

adjudication sounds scary... what does that mean exactly?

It's just when they need to review your claim for eligibility. Since you mentioned layoffs that should be straightforward - involuntary separation typically processes faster than quits or terminations.

The adjudication process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on complexity. For layoffs it's usually quicker since there's no fault determination needed.

never heard of that but good to know there are options if i run into phone issues

how much does something like that cost though?

I didn't worry about the cost when I was stressed about my claim being stuck. The value was worth it to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD.

wait so even during the waiting week i have to file something?

Yes, you must file your weekly claim every week starting with your first week of unemployment. The waiting week still requires a weekly claim filing to establish your ongoing eligibility.

It can seem overwhelming at first but the online application walks you through each step. Having your employment history and wage information ready makes it much smoother.

what kind of employment history do they need?

18 months?? that seems like a lot

Washington ESD uses your wages from the last 4-5 quarters to calculate your benefit amount, so they need that employment history to determine eligibility and benefit levels.

how many jobs do you have to apply for?

Washington requires 3 job search activities per week. This can include applications, networking, interviews, or other approved activities. You must keep detailed records in your job search log.

this is where that claimyr thing the other person mentioned might be useful. getting through to ESD is a nightmare

Yeah, anything that helps you actually reach an agent when you need claim help is valuable. The automated system only goes so far.

so after i file the first time, i have to keep filing every single week?

Exactly. Every week you want benefits, you must file a weekly claim by the deadline (usually Sunday night). Miss a week and you don't get paid for that week.

I get the frustration but the waiting week has been standard in most states for decades. It's designed to prevent people from filing frivolous claims for very short periods of unemployment.

still sucks when you have bills due

thats good to know, might need to take some gig work to make ends meet

Just make sure you report every penny you earn. Washington ESD cross-checks with wage databases and unreported income can result in overpayment demands and penalties.

good to know, ill definitely use the website

The online system is available 24/7 too, so you don't have to worry about business hours for filing.

ill check that out, thanks!

oh crap i think i am getting severance... how does that work?

You'll need to report the severance amount and the period it covers. Benefits typically start after the severance period ends, but there are exceptions for lump sum payments.

The severance rules can be complex. If you're unsure about how your severance affects your claim timing, contact Washington ESD directly for clarification before filing.

appreciate all the help everyone, feeling much more prepared now

smart thinking, ill definitely keep records

Trust me, the few minutes spent documenting each week can save you hours of headaches later if issues come up.

thanks! hoping for the best

hopefully won't be an issue since its company-wide layoffs

Right, layoffs are typically straightforward. It's voluntary quits or terminations for cause where contests are more common.

another thing to add to the list, thanks for mentioning that

WorkSource registration is mandatory within a certain timeframe, so don't put it off. It's also actually helpful for job searching.

really appreciate everyone taking the time to help out, this thread has been super informative