When to apply for unemployment - timing question for Washington ESD claim

Thanks! So I don't need to wait for my final pay stub then?

Nope, you can file right away. Just make sure you have your employment dates and employer info ready.

Yeah my actual last day was December 15th but I just got the termination letter yesterday. Should I use December 15th as my last day worked?

Yes use December 15th since that was when you actually stopped working. The termination notice date doesn't matter for UI purposes.

Never heard of that service before. Did it actually work or just another scam?

It's legit. Basically helps you get through the Washington ESD phone system without waiting on hold forever. Was worth it for me when I had urgent questions about my claim.

Might need to try that if I run into issues. The phone system sounds like a nightmare from what I've read.

What's adjudication exactly? Sounds scary.

It's just when they need to review your claim for eligibility. Usually takes 2-4 weeks but not always a big deal. Just be honest about your dates when filing.

No that's not correct. You can file before your final paycheck. Washington ESD will ask about any severance or final pay when you file your weekly claims.

oh ok thanks for clarifying!

Great! Now make sure you file your weekly claims every week even if your claim is still pending. Don't skip any weeks or you'll lose benefits.

Good point. When do I file my first weekly claim?

You should be able to file your first weekly claim this Sunday for the week ending January 4th. Check your account on esd.wa.gov for the exact schedule.

File anyway. If there's a dispute, Washington ESD will handle it during adjudication. Don't delay filing just because your employer might contest it.

Ok that makes sense. Better to have the process started than waiting around.

I get the frustration but the system has to verify eligibility and work history. It's not perfect but filing immediately is still the best approach.

Yeah I know you're right. Just venting because I struggled with this same timing question last year.

Good advice! I did save my confirmation number just in case.

Smart. Also write down the exact dates you used in your application. Consistency is key if they ask questions later.

Thanks but I've only worked in Washington so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Perfect, then you're all set with the standard process. Should be straightforward.

I'm getting two weeks severance pay. Will that disqualify me completely?

No not completely, but you'll need to report it when filing your weekly claims. It might delay your benefits for those weeks but won't affect your overall eligibility.

Exactly right. Severance is reportable income that affects when benefits start, not whether you qualify.

You can get retroactive benefits but there are limits. Generally better to file within the first few weeks to avoid complications.

yeah true, i just got lucky i think. wouldn't recommend waiting that long

How much does something like that cost though? Seems like it would be expensive.

It's worth checking out their site for details. For me the value was getting answers quickly instead of spending days trying to reach someone at Washington ESD.

Wait really? So I could lose benefits by waiting to file?

Exactly. Benefits don't automatically backdate to when you became unemployed. That's why filing immediately is so important.

This is correct for initial applications. There are some exceptions for good cause delays but generally you want to file ASAP.

Is that something I have to do immediately or can I wait a few days?

You have some time but I'd recommend doing it within the first week. It's required for maintaining your benefits and easier to do early than scramble later.

File anyway. Washington ESD will determine if the termination disqualifies you during their review process. Don't self-eliminate by not filing.

Ok good to know. I was worried about wasting time on an application that would just get denied.

Don't wait any longer! You can always provide additional documentation later if needed. The important thing is getting your claim started.

Thanks for the push. Going to file tonight.

Interesting, didn't know the day of the week mattered for online applications.

It's not a huge deal but I've noticed the site runs smoother earlier in the week. Might save you some frustration.

Glad it helped! Everyone here gave really good advice about filing immediately.

Happy to help. The unemployment system can be confusing but filing early is definitely the way to go.

Perfect summary! That's exactly what I learned from everyone's responses here.

Agreed. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits. Simple as that.

And if you need help reaching ESD agents with questions about your application, don't forget about services like Claimyr that can help you get through their phone system faster.