When do you claim unemployment for the week - Washington ESD timing questions

Thanks! So I'm always filing for the week that just ended, not the current week I'm in?

Exactly right. You're reporting what already happened, not what you expect to happen.

I always file Sunday morning right when it opens up. Gets processed by Tuesday usually.

Good to know about the timing window. I was worried I had to file on a specific day.

I had the same problem trying to reach someone at Washington ESD! Ended up using Claimyr.com to get through to an actual agent. They have this video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling.

Never heard of that but might try it. Getting hung up on constantly is driving me crazy.

this makes sense when you think about it. how could you report your job search activities for a week that hasn't finished yet?

True, I guess I was overthinking it. You need the full week of info to report.

Wait, so if I forget to file one week I just lose that money completely?

Pretty much yes. There are some exceptions for good cause but they're hard to prove. Better to just set a reminder.

I missed filing once because I was sick and Washington ESD wouldn't let me claim it later. Lost a whole week of benefits.

That's a great idea. I'll set that up right now.

I do the same thing! Sunday morning coffee and weekly claim filing is my routine now.

Good point. So I should still file even if I picked up a few hours of temp work?

Yes, definitely still file. Just be honest about the hours and gross earnings. Washington ESD will reduce your benefit amount accordingly but you might still get something.

How many job search contacts do I need per week?

Depends on your situation but typically 3 per week. Check your individual requirements in your account.

Some people are exempt from job search if they're on standby with their employer. Check if that applies to you.

Agreed. I've never had issues as long as I file on time and report everything accurately.

Thanks everyone, this really helps clarify things for a newbie like me.

Or try a different browser. I had issues with Chrome but Firefox worked fine.

Yeah the Washington ESD website definitely has its quirks. Sometimes logging out completely and back in fixes weird errors.

Perfect summary. I feel much more confident about this now.

Yep, once you get in the rhythm it's pretty automatic. Good luck with your claim!

Getting through is the hard part! I mentioned Claimyr earlier but it's seriously been a game changer for reaching Washington ESD agents when I have questions.

I'll have to check that out. The regular phone number is basically useless during busy times.