When do you get unemployment payments from Washington ESD after filing?

Thanks! Do I need to do anything during those 2-3 weeks or just wait?

you still need to file your weekly claims every week even while waiting for approval

How do I know if my claim is in adjudication? My status just says pending.

If it's in adjudication, you'll typically see a status change or receive a letter explaining what they need to review. Sometimes they'll request documents through your online account.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling!

Really? How does that work exactly? I'm desperate at this point.

They basically handle the calling for you and connect you when an agent becomes available. Much better than sitting on hold for hours or getting disconnected.

That makes sense. So I need to wait for approval first, then another 10-14 days for the actual payment?

Exactly. And remember you'll only get paid for the weeks you've successfully filed weekly claims for.

Oh no! Can you go back and file for those missed weeks?

Sometimes but it's complicated. Washington ESD might allow backdating in certain circumstances but it's not guaranteed.

This is why I always tell people to file their weekly claims religiously, even if the main claim is still pending

I understand the frustration, but there are legitimate reasons for delays - they need to verify eligibility and prevent fraud. Have you checked if there are any outstanding issues on your account?

Nothing shows up but how would I know?? The website is confusing and I can't get anyone on the phone!

That's encouraging! Was your claim straightforward or did you have any complications?

pretty straightforward, just standard job loss due to layoffs. no adjudication or anything

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money waiting for benefits.

The peace of mind was worth it for me. Better than spending days trying to get through on my own and never reaching anyone.

Good point. Do they send payments by direct deposit or check?

You can choose either when you set up your claim. Direct deposit is faster - usually 1-2 business days vs 5-7 days for mailed checks.

That's actually really helpful to know. I was worried I'd lose those weeks completely.

Exactly - as long as you filed your weekly claims, you should get paid for all eligible weeks once your claim is approved.

Have you tried reaching out to local assistance programs while you wait? Some cities have emergency rental assistance.

didn't know that was an option, will look into it thanks

Wow, 2 months is scary. How did she manage financially during that time?

She had to borrow money from family and apply for food assistance. Not ideal but she did eventually get all the backpay.

Good catch! I should double-check mine just to be safe.

Yeah definitely verify it now rather than finding out the hard way like I did

Easier said than done when you're worried about bills! But you're probably right.

I found it helpful to set specific times to check rather than constantly refreshing. Like once in the morning and once at night.

That's exactly the kind of thing I'm worried about - issues I don't even know exist.

Right, sometimes there are behind-the-scenes things that aren't obvious from just looking at your online account. Having someone who can actually talk to Washington ESD on your behalf makes a huge difference.

Thanks for the reminder! I've been applying to jobs but wasn't sure about the documentation part.

Yeah you need to log your job search activities in the WorkSourceWA system. It's separate from your regular weekly claims but equally important.

Exactly - failing to meet job search requirements can cause issues with your benefits even if everything else is processed correctly.