Where can I file for unemployment in Washington - lost my job yesterday

Everything is done online now through the Washington ESD website. Go to esd.wa.gov and look for the 'File a Claim' button. You'll need to create an account through SecureAccess Washington (SAW) first if you don't already have one.

filed mine last week, the website is esd.wa.gov/unemployment/file-a-claim - pretty straightforward but takes about 30-45 minutes to complete everything

The Washington ESD moved everything online during COVID and never went back to in-person filing. The process is actually pretty efficient once you get started. Make sure you file your claim as soon as possible since benefits can only be backdated to the week you file, not when you lost your job.

Just a heads up - if you have trouble getting through to Washington ESD by phone to ask questions, I recently discovered this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me connected to a real person. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Was a lifesaver when I had questions about my claim status.

Quick tip - when you're filling out the application, be super accurate with your employment dates and wage information. Any discrepancies can trigger an adjudication process that delays your claim for weeks.

also make sure you understand the weekly claim filing requirement - you have to certify for benefits every week even if you haven't been approved yet

Don't forget about the job search requirements either. Washington requires you to make 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of them.

THE SYSTEM IS SO BROKEN! I've been trying to get through to them for WEEKS and can't reach a human being. How are we supposed to get help when we need it???

OP, one more thing - make sure you have a reliable internet connection when you're filing. The session can time out if it takes too long and you might lose your progress.

honestly the whole process was easier than i expected, just read everything carefully and don't rush through it

If you worked in multiple states recently, make sure you're filing in the right state. Generally it's where you worked most recently, but there are exceptions.

Another vote for getting started ASAP. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits. Even if there are delays in processing, at least you'll be in the system.

Quick question for everyone - do you get an email confirmation right away after filing? Want to make sure I did it right.

Pro tip: save your confirmation number somewhere safe. You'll need it for basically everything related to your claim.

I had a friend who tried to file using his phone and kept having issues with the website. Desktop or laptop computer works much better if you have access to one.

One last thing - after you file your initial claim, you'll need to complete an eligibility interview either online or by phone. Don't ignore those notifications or your claim could be delayed.

Hope everything works out for you OP! The first claim filing can be stressful but you've got this. The Washington ESD system isn't perfect but it does work.