When can you start collecting unemployment benefits in Washington - timing questions

Thanks! So if I file this week, benefits would start from this past Sunday? Even though I was laid off Friday?

Exactly. The benefit week runs Sunday through Saturday, so if you file now, your claim starts from the Sunday of this week.

Wait, so I have to wait an entire week without any payment? That seems harsh when I just lost my job.

Yeah it sucks but that's standard. The waiting period is basically unpaid, but you still need to file your weekly claim for that week to establish your claim.

How far back can they backdate claims? I'm in a similar situation and might have waited too long already.

Washington ESD generally only allows backdating up to one week, and only in certain circumstances. Don't wait any longer - file today if you can.

That sounds helpful! I've been trying to call but keep getting busy signals. How does that service work exactly?

They basically handle the calling for you and connect you when an agent becomes available. Way better than sitting on hold forever or getting disconnected.

What paperwork do I actually need to file? I have my termination letter but not much else yet.

You need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment information for the last 18 months. The termination letter helps but isn't required to file initially.

Good point. I don't have any travel planned so I should be good there. Just want to make sure I file at the right time.

Yeah, and you have to be actively job searching too. Can't just file and sit around waiting for benefits without looking for work.

Is there a specific time of day that's better to file online? I've heard some government websites are slower during certain hours.

I filed mine early morning and it went smoothly. Evenings and weekends might be busier with more people trying to access the system.

I got two weeks severance. Will that completely prevent me from getting unemployment?

Not necessarily prevent, but it might delay when you can start receiving benefits. You'll need to report the severance when you file and they'll determine how it affects your claim.

How long have you been waiting? I'm worried about how long the approval process takes.

It's been about a week since I filed. From what I've read, it can take 2-3 weeks for initial approval if there are no issues with your claim.

That's a good idea. I'll look for that calculator on their website. Do you remember where it's located?

It should be on the main Washington ESD website under the unemployment benefits section. Pretty easy to find once you're on their site.

This is so true. I see people make this mistake all the time - thinking unemployment is only for people who can't find work at all.

Yeah, I was kind of thinking that way too. Good to know I should file right away regardless.

Good to know there's a backup option if I can't get through normally. Hopefully I won't need it but nice to have as a plan B.

I was skeptical about using a service like that at first, but when you're desperate to talk to someone at Washington ESD, it's worth it.

Good advice. I'll start a folder to keep track of everything related to my unemployment claim.

Smart move. I wish I had been more organized when I first filed. Would have saved me stress later when I needed to reference something.

Thanks for all the advice everyone. I'm going to file my claim today instead of waiting any longer.

Good decision! Feel free to come back here if you run into any issues during the process. Lots of helpful people in this community.

Is there a specific format for the job search log, or can I just keep my own records?

You can use their online system or keep your own detailed records. Just make sure you have dates, employer names, contact methods, and job titles for each search activity.