When do you certify for unemployment - Washington ESD weekly claim schedule?

Thanks! Should I be checking my account daily or do they send email notifications?

They should send you notifications but I'd check your account every few days just to be safe. The system can sometimes be delayed with notifications.

What happens if I forget to file one week? Can I still file the next week?

You can usually file late claims but it might delay your payment. Washington ESD generally allows you to file for previous weeks if you have a good reason for the delay.

I missed filing one week last month and had to call Washington ESD to get it sorted out. Took forever to get through on the phone.

Is that one of those paid services? I'm already strapped for cash being unemployed.

It's worth checking out their site to see what they offer. For me, the time saved was definitely valuable since I was spending whole mornings trying to get through to Washington ESD.

What counts as a job search contact? Does applying online count?

Yes, online applications count, but you need to keep detailed records including the employer name, date, position, and method of contact. WorkSourceWA activities also count toward your requirements.

I got dinged for not having enough job search contacts in my third week. They made me do extra WorkSourceWA activities to get reinstated.

What if I worked a few hours but didn't earn much? Do I still report it?

YES, report ALL work and earnings, even if it's just a few dollars. Washington ESD will calculate how it affects your weekly benefit amount. Hiding work income can get you in serious trouble for fraud.

Good to know about Sunday mornings being slow. I'll try to file later in the day.

Yeah I usually wait until Sunday afternoon or Monday to avoid the rush.

How long does the processing usually take after you file?

If everything goes smoothly, usually 2-3 business days after you file your weekly claim. But if there are any issues or red flags, it can take much longer.

Sounds like your claim might be in adjudication. That's when Washington ESD is investigating something about your claim - could be related to your job separation, work history, or identity verification.

How do I find out what they're investigating? I can't get anyone on the phone and there's no clear information in my account.

This is exactly the kind of situation where Claimyr helped me. When my claim was stuck in adjudication, I couldn't get through to Washington ESD for weeks. Claimyr got me connected to an actual agent who explained what documents they needed to resolve my case.

What's the best way to keep track of job search activities?

I use a simple spreadsheet with columns for date, employer, position, method of contact, and any follow-up. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time.

I didn't know you could get partial benefits! My hours got cut to 20 per week, should I apply?

Definitely worth applying if your hours were significantly reduced. Washington ESD has specific formulas for partial unemployment benefits.

I didn't know there was an app! What's it called?

It's just called 'Washington ESD' in the app stores. Has most of the same functionality as the website for routine stuff like weekly claims.

What's the difference between regular UI and standby status for weekly claims?

With standby, you might not have the same job search requirements, but you still need to be available for work if your employer calls you back. The weekly claim questions are slightly different.

That sounds frustrating! Did you get confirmation numbers when you thought you submitted?

no confirmation number either time, that's how I knew something went wrong. now I always screenshot the confirmation page

Good advice. I usually try to file by Wednesday or Thursday each week to avoid any last-minute problems.

That's scary. What happens if you make an honest mistake on a weekly claim?

Honest mistakes are usually handled differently than intentional fraud, but you still need to correct them as soon as you realize the error. Washington ESD generally works with people who self-report mistakes.

I tried my local office but they said they couldn't access my specific claim information, only provide general guidance.

That's why services like Claimyr can be so helpful - they actually get you connected directly to Washington ESD agents who can access your specific claim details and resolve issues in real time.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I feel much more prepared to start filing my weekly claims now.

Good luck! The system can be confusing at first but you'll get the hang of it. Don't hesitate to ask questions if you run into issues.