When do you file for unemployment in Washington - timing questions

You should file your claim as soon as possible after your last day of work. Don't wait! Washington ESD processes claims based on when you file, not when you actually lost your job. The sooner you get it in, the sooner your claim can be processed.

There's no waiting week in Washington anymore, they got rid of that a few years ago. But it still takes time to process your claim, especially if it goes into adjudication for any reason.

Just went through this myself last month. Filed on a Sunday after getting laid off Friday, and my claim was approved within a week. The key is having all your employment information ready - dates, wages, employer details for the past 18 months. Washington ESD's website walks you through everything step by step.

One thing to keep in mind - if you're getting severance pay, that might affect when your benefits start. Washington ESD has specific rules about severance and how it impacts your claim timing.

File ASAP but also be prepared for the possibility of having to call Washington ESD if there are any issues with your claim. The phone system is absolutely brutal - I spent hours trying to get through when my claim got stuck. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me actually reach someone. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Saved me so much frustration.

Don't forget you'll need to do weekly claims every week once your claim is active, even if you haven't received your first payment yet. That's a common mistake people make.

Make sure you understand the job search requirements too. You'll need to do job search activities and keep a log of what you're doing. Washington ESD can ask to see it at any time.

The whole system is a nightmare tbh. I filed 3 weeks ago and still haven't heard anything. Claim just says 'under review' with no explanation of what they're reviewing or how long it'll take.

I would recommend filing online rather than trying to do it over the phone. The website works pretty well and you can do it any time. Phone filing is just going to add unnecessary delays and complications.

One more tip - screenshot everything when you file your claim! Save confirmation numbers, take pictures of submitted forms, etc. If anything goes wrong later you'll want that documentation.

The timing really depends on your specific situation too. If you're in a union or have specific contractual obligations, there might be other considerations. But for most regular layoffs, filing immediately is the right move.

Whatever you do, don't let anyone tell you to wait to file. I had a coworker who waited two weeks because someone told her she had to, and she basically lost two weeks of potential benefits. Washington ESD doesn't backdate claims to before you file.

Just remember that even after you file, the first payment can take 2-3 weeks to come through if everything goes smoothly. Plan your finances accordingly because it's not immediate money.

Has anyone had issues with the Washington ESD website crashing when trying to file? I've heard it can be unreliable during busy times.

Don't overthink it too much. The system is designed to handle people in your exact situation. File as soon as you can after your last day, be honest about everything, and keep doing your weekly claims. Most people don't have major issues if they follow the basic rules.

Good luck with everything! Layoffs suck but at least Washington has decent unemployment benefits compared to some other states. The process isn't too bad once you get started.