When do I file my weekly claim for unemployment - Washington ESD timing question

Thank you! So I should wait until after each week is over before filing the claim for that week?

Exactly! You can't file for a week that hasn't happened yet. Washington ESD needs to know what actually occurred during that week - whether you worked, looked for jobs, etc.

Same here, Sunday has become my routine. I set a phone reminder so I don't forget.

Good idea about the reminder! I'll probably do the same thing.

This makes sense now. So I should plan to file every Sunday for the previous week?

Yes, that's the most common approach. Just make sure you don't file late - you only have a limited window to file each weekly claim.

Really? I've been trying to call for days. How does that service work exactly?

Basically they handle all the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Saved me so much frustration.

I've never heard of this but might try it. The Washington ESD phone system is impossible.

No, you have to file a weekly claim every week to certify that you're still eligible for benefits. It's not automatic.

oh great, another thing to worry about. what happens if i miss a week?

If you miss filing a weekly claim, you won't get paid for that week. You might be able to file late but there are restrictions.

Ha! That's exactly what I was worried about doing. Good to know I'm not the only one confused by this.

Yeah the system won't let you file early anyway, so don't stress about it too much.

same! especially around holidays when my brain is off

The benefit week always runs Sunday to Saturday, which helps me keep track. So I know I'm always filing on Sunday for the Sunday-Saturday week that just ended.

That's a really good system. I might copy that idea.

It's saved me from filing the wrong week more than once!

RIGHT?? Everything about their website is confusing

The information is there but it's buried in the FAQ section. They could definitely make it more prominent.

Good point! I need to start keeping better records of my job applications.

Yeah, they can audit your job search log at any time. Better to have good documentation from the start.

Good to hear another success story with that service. I'm definitely going to try it if I need to call.

Right? It's crazy how much time it saves compared to calling normally.

I do have my online account set up. Just wasn't sure about the timing of when to file.

Perfect! The online system makes it pretty straightforward once you know when to file.

The system is usually available 24/7 for filing weekly claims, but I'd check the Washington ESD website for any scheduled maintenance windows.

ok cool, i was worried i'd have to wake up early or something lol

I like that idea of making it part of a routine. Probably the best way to make sure I don't forget.

Exactly! And it only takes a few minutes once you get used to the process.

Right? I feel like this should be explained better when you first get approved.

Washington ESD could definitely improve their communication about the weekly filing process.

Good to know there's a little buffer in case something comes up.

Yeah, but it's better to just file on time every week to avoid any complications.

Agreed! Really appreciate everyone taking the time to explain this stuff.

Happy to help! The unemployment system can be confusing but once you get the hang of it, it becomes routine.

Oh that's perfect! I'll definitely sign up for those email reminders.

Yeah, it's in your account settings. Just another way to make sure you don't miss a week.

Perfect summary! That's exactly what I needed to know.

Glad this thread helped clear things up for you!