When to file for unemployment benefits - timing questions for Washington ESD

File as soon as you're officially separated from employment, which sounds like December 21st in your case. The key is your last day of actual work, not when your final paycheck arrives. Washington ESD processes claims based on when you become unemployed, and waiting longer just delays your potential benefits. You'll report any severance or final pay when you file your weekly claims.

I waited too long to file mine and regretted it. There's a waiting period anyway, so filing early doesn't hurt. Just make sure you have your employer info and Social Security number ready.

Actually had this exact situation last year. I called Washington ESD to ask about the timing and got stuck on hold for literally 3 hours before giving up. Ended up discovering this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual agent in like 20 minutes. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. The agent confirmed I should file immediately after my last work day, not wait for final pay.

File immediately! I made the mistake of waiting until all my paperwork was perfect and lost valuable time. Washington ESD can always ask for additional documentation later, but you can't backdate your claim filing date.

ugh the Washington ESD system is so confusing about this stuff. why can't they just make it clear on their website when exactly you're supposed to file???

From what I understand, you want to file your initial claim as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. The Washington ESD system is designed to handle overlapping pay periods through the weekly claim process. Better to file early and report everything accurately than to wait and potentially miss out on benefits you're entitled to.

I filed my claim the day after I got laid off and it was the right call. Had my first weekly claim available within a few days. Just make sure you file it online through the Washington ESD website, not over the phone unless you absolutely have to.

One thing to keep in mind is that Washington ESD has a one-week waiting period for regular unemployment benefits. So even if you file immediately, your first payable week won't be until after that waiting week. Filing early doesn't change this, but it does get your claim in the system sooner.

Had a similar situation earlier this year. Filed right after my last day of work and it went smoothly. The key is having all your employment information ready - dates, employer contact info, reason for separation, etc. Washington ESD's online system walks you through everything step by step.

File ASAP but don't stress too much about the exact timing. I filed a few days after my separation and it was fine. The most important thing is being honest about your work history and separation reason when you file.

I remember being in the same boat last year, trying to figure out the perfect timing. Ended up using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier to get through to Washington ESD and ask directly. The agent told me to file within the first week of unemployment for sure, ideally right away. Worth the peace of mind to talk to someone who actually knows the rules.

File as soon as you're unemployed, period. Don't overthink it. Washington ESD has processes in place to handle all the different pay scenarios through your weekly claims. The longer you wait, the longer it takes to get your benefits started.

One more thing - make sure you're ready to start filing weekly claims right away after your initial claim. Even during the waiting period, you need to keep up with your weekly claims to maintain your eligibility. Set a reminder for yourself to file every week.

Just want to echo what everyone else is saying - file immediately after your last day of work. I've been through this process twice and both times filing early made everything smoother. Washington ESD is pretty good about walking you through the steps once you get started.