When can you file unemployment in Washington - timing requirements?

Thanks! So I don't need to wait for the paycheck to clear or anything like that?

Nope, just report those wages when you file your first weekly claim. The system will adjust your benefits accordingly.

Oh good, I was worried about that. One less thing to stress about.

It's a layoff due to company restructuring, so I should be good on that front.

Perfect, layoffs are straightforward. Just make sure to keep any documentation about the layoff in case they ask for it.

How much did that cost? I'm already worried about money with losing my job.

It's worth checking out their site for pricing, but honestly it was a lifesaver when I needed to talk to someone immediately about my claim status.

I've heard about services like that but never tried one. Did they actually help resolve your issue?

When do the weekly claims need to be filed? Is there a specific day?

You get a 'week' to file but it's really from Sunday through Saturday. I always file mine on Sunday mornings to avoid forgetting.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs?

Applying for jobs, networking events, career fairs, even updating your LinkedIn profile. Check the WorkSourceWA website for the full list.

And keep detailed records! Date, company name, method of contact, position applied for. You'll need all that if they audit you.

Yes, you're supposed to register with WorkSourceWA within a certain timeframe. You might want to do that ASAP to avoid issues.

crap ok ill do that today thanks

They do have guides on the Washington ESD website, but I agree they could be more user-friendly.

I found YouTube videos from people explaining the process step by step more helpful than the official guides tbh

What causes a claim to go into adjudication? Should I be worried about that?

Usually it's when there's something unclear about your separation from work, or if you had multiple jobs, or if there's a discrepancy somewhere. Don't stress about it unless it happens.

That's exactly when I used Claimyr actually - when my claim was stuck in adjudication and I needed to talk to someone to figure out what documents they needed.

Good idea, I'll definitely do that. Have you had issues with the system before?

Yeah, once it said I didn't file my weekly claim when I definitely did. Having the screenshot saved me from losing that week's benefits.

Can you use any bank account or does it have to be a specific type?

Any checking or savings account should work. Just double-check the routing and account numbers.

That's reassuring to hear. I'm definitely nervous about messing something up.

You'll be fine! Just take it one step at a time and don't overthink it.

The online system is available 24/7, but they do maintenance sometimes on Sunday mornings. I'd avoid filing right at midnight on Sunday just in case.

Perfect, thanks! That flexibility will definitely help.

That's interesting, I didn't know there were different rules for union members.

Yeah, standby is a whole different category. You have to be expecting to return to work within a certain timeframe.

Good point. Even if I find something quickly, at least I'll have the safety net in place.

Exactly! Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.

So if I file this weekend, I have a full year to use the benefits if needed?

Right, but you can only collect for a maximum of 26 weeks within that benefit year, assuming you qualify for the full amount.

Yeah, I'm definitely going to keep that in mind if I run into issues that need a phone call.

Smart plan. I wish I had known about it when I was dealing with my adjudication mess.

Great advice! I'll gather all that information this weekend before I file. Thanks everyone for all the help!

You're welcome! Feel free to come back if you have more questions once you start the process.