When do you get unemployment benefits after filing with Washington ESD?

Thanks! What exactly triggers adjudication? I'm worried something might delay my claim.

Common triggers include quit vs layoff disputes, earnings discrepancies, or if you worked in multiple states. Most claims go through without issues though.

Oh no, that's exactly what I'm worried about. Have you tried calling them?

I've called dozens of times but can never get through. The lines are always busy or I get disconnected after waiting an hour.

Good to know about filing weekly claims right away. I wasn't sure if I should wait for approval first.

Yeah definitely keep filing weekly claims or you'll lose those weeks permanently. Learned that the hard way.

Is this legit? I'm desperate at this point but don't want to get scammed.

It's real - they just handle the calling process for you so you don't have to sit there redialing constantly. Got me connected within 30 minutes when I'd been trying for days.

I might try this if my claim gets stuck. Thanks for sharing!

What kind of documents did they ask for?

pay stubs, separation notice, id verification... just kept coming one after another with no explanation of why

So if I filed my initial claim this week, I should file my first weekly claim this Sunday?

Exactly. The weekly claim filing window opens Saturday evening and you have until the following Saturday to file for that week.

Wait I thought you had to wait for approval first before filing weekly claims?

No, that's a common misconception. You should file weekly claims immediately to preserve those weeks.

I know right? And then they wonder why people don't trust government programs.

It's frustrating but the process exists to prevent fraud. Most legitimate claims do get processed within a few weeks.

ID verification is very common now. Upload clear photos of your documents and it usually processes within 3-5 business days.

Mine took 2 weeks for ID verification! And that was before my actual claim review even started.

Ugh, I really hope mine goes faster than that.

Good point, I'll set that up now. Thanks!

The debit card fees are ridiculous. Direct deposit is definitely the way to go.

That gives me hope! Mine should be straightforward too - clear layoff due to company downsizing.

How many job contacts do I need per week?

Three job search activities per week minimum. Can include applications, networking, job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records with dates and contact info.

Thanks, I'll start documenting everything now.

How much does it cost?

I don't remember exactly but it was reasonable considering I would have lost way more time calling myself. Check their website for current pricing.

Yeah they're still overwhelmed from all the pandemic claims. Hopefully it improves soon.

Good catch, I'll double check all my banking info.

Yes, if approved you'll receive payment for all eligible weeks you filed claims for, minus the one waiting week.

Perfect, that's what I was hoping to hear.

Have you looked into local food banks or emergency assistance programs while you wait?

Also try Claimyr to get through to someone at Washington ESD. At this point you need answers about what's holding up your claim.

I'll try both suggestions, thanks.

Easy to say when it's not your rent due next week...

I get it, I've been there. Just trying to provide some reassurance that it usually works out.

Good luck! Feel free to ask if you run into any other issues.

Hope it goes smoothly for you!

Great idea, I'll start doing that now.

Yes! Also print or save copies of all your weekly claim confirmations.

Glad it helped! The community here really knows their stuff.