When do Washington ESD unemployment benefits start after filing claim?

Thanks! So even though I filed last week, I still have to wait another week or two?

Exactly. The waiting week is unpaid, then you'll get your first payment for the following week assuming everything processes smoothly.

Oh no, I haven't been doing that! Where do I file weekly claims?

Log into your eServices account on the Washington ESD website. You need to file every week to keep your claim active.

That sounds helpful! I've been trying to call for days but keep getting disconnected.

Is this some kind of paid service? Seems sketchy to pay someone to make phone calls for you.

It's legitimate - they don't ask for your personal info, just help you get connected to an actual person at Washington ESD. Worth it when you can't get through otherwise.

I feel your frustration. The Washington ESD website does have this information but it's buried in the FAQ section and hard to find.

exactly!! shouldnt have to hunt for basic info like when we get paid

How do I know if my claim is in adjudication? My account just says 'processed'.

If it just says processed and you don't see any pending issues, you should be fine. Adjudication claims usually show 'pending' or 'under review' status.

Mine has said 'under review' for 3 weeks now. This is ridiculous.

This breakdown is really helpful, thank you!

Unless you get stuck in adjudication hell like some of us...

Good to know! I'll make sure to set a reminder to file every week.

yeah definitely set reminders. they dont send you notifications or anything

That makes sense. So I'm always filing for the week that just ended, not the upcoming week?

Correct. You're certifying that you were unemployed and available for work during the previous week.

Good point, I should double-check that. Can I change it after I've already filed?

Yes, you can update your payment method in your eServices account anytime.

What kind of job separation issues cause delays?

Anything where they need to verify you were laid off vs quit vs fired. If there's any question about eligibility.

How many jobs do I need to apply to each week?

It varies but generally 3-5 job contacts per week. Keep detailed records of where you applied and when.

This is important! They can disqualify you retroactively if you don't meet job search requirements.

That's the second mention of Claimyr in this thread. Might be worth trying if I run into issues.

Same here - used them last month when my payments stopped for no reason. Agent was able to explain the issue right away.

Have you tried calling to check your claim status? There might be an issue you're not aware of.

tried calling dozens of times, always busy or get disconnected

This timeline really helps! I think I understand the process now.

Wish they made this timeline more clear on their website. Had to learn all this the hard way.

Can I choose to have taxes withheld? I don't want a surprise tax bill.

yeah you can opt for 10% federal withholding in your account settings

Good to hear it gets easier! I was feeling overwhelmed by all the requirements.

It really does. The hardest part is just getting started and understanding the timing.

Oh I was wondering about that! I thought everything would be direct deposit automatically.

Nope, the debit card is their default method. You have to specifically request direct deposit.

Thanks for the encouragement! I'll keep filing weekly claims and try to be patient.

This is solid advice. I almost gave up after 3 weeks but everything eventually came through.

Thanks for the tip! I've been trying at random times without much strategy.

Mondays are definitely better than Fridays. But honestly, services like Claimyr are worth it if you need to get through quickly.

I only worked in Washington so hopefully that won't be an issue for me.

You should be fine then. In-state claims are much more straightforward.