Where can I go to apply for unemployment in person at Washington ESD?

Unfortunately Washington ESD doesn't really do walk-in services anymore. Most of their offices closed to the public during COVID and they never reopened for in-person appointments. You pretty much have to apply online through their website or call them, but good luck getting through on the phone.

You can try calling the Washington ESD customer service line but be prepared to wait on hold for hours. I called 47 times last month before I finally got through to someone. The number is on their website but honestly it's a nightmare trying to reach them.

I had the same problem getting through to Washington ESD by phone until someone told me about Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to ESD agents without having to sit on hold all day. I used it last month and actually got connected to someone within 20 minutes. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

Some WorkSource offices might be able to help you navigate the online application, but they can't actually file the claim for you. They're more for job search assistance but the staff there are usually pretty helpful with computer stuff.

honestly the whole system is a mess. i applied online back in january and my claim is still pending. washington esd is completely overwhelmed and understaffed. even if you do get through to someone they probably won't be able to help much

The online application isn't that bad once you get used to it. Make sure you have all your employer information ready - company names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation. Also have your Social Security card and ID handy. The system will ask for all of that stuff.

I tried going to the ESD office in Tukwila last year and they basically told me to go home and apply online. The security guard said they only do appointments for very specific issues and unemployment applications aren't one of them. Total waste of time.

If you're really struggling with the online system, you could ask a friend or family member who's good with computers to help you. That's what my mom did when she lost her job. Sometimes having someone else there to help navigate the website makes it easier.

You might also want to try applying during off-peak hours like early morning or late evening. The website tends to be less buggy when fewer people are using it. I applied at like 6 AM and it went pretty smoothly.

Whatever you do, don't wait too long to apply. You need to file within a certain timeframe after losing your job or you might not be eligible for benefits. I think it's like 2-3 weeks max but don't quote me on that.

I used Claimyr when I couldn't get through to ESD about my adjudication issue. It's not free but it's worth it if you really need to talk to someone and can't get through the regular way. Saved me probably 20 hours of calling and redialing.

honestly just bite the bullet and do it online. yes the website sucks but once you get through it you're done. sitting around waiting for in-person help that doesn't exist isn't going to pay your bills

Make sure you print out or screenshot everything after you submit your application. The ESD system has been known to lose applications or not save them properly. Having proof that you submitted it on a certain date could be important later.

Libraries sometimes have computer classes or can provide one-on-one help with online applications. Might be worth calling your local library to see if they offer that kind of assistance. Some of them specifically help with government websites.

I know someone mentioned Claimyr already but I wanted to add that I used them too when my weekly claims weren't going through properly. The ESD phone system is just broken and this was the only way I could actually get help. The video demo on their site explains it pretty well.

Just wanted to say good luck with your application! The unemployment system in Washington is frustrating but don't give up. Lots of us have been through this process and eventually got our benefits sorted out. It's just a matter of persistence.

One more thing - when you do apply online, make sure you answer all the questions completely and accurately. Don't leave anything blank even if it seems optional. The system is picky and incomplete applications get rejected or delayed.