Where can you file for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

You can file online at secure.esd.wa.gov - that's the official Washington ESD website. You don't need to go to a physical office unless there's some special circumstance. The online application is pretty straightforward.

I filed mine online last month, super easy process. Just make sure you have all your employment info ready - previous employers, dates, wages, etc. The system will walk you through everything step by step.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD by phone when I needed help with my application. If you run into issues and need to actually talk to someone, I found this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an agent. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Make sure you file as soon as possible after losing your job. There's usually a waiting period and you want to get the process started right away. Don't wait thinking you might find another job quickly.

The Washington ESD online portal is secure.esd.wa.gov - that's the ONLY official place to file your initial claim. Be careful of scam websites that might look similar. Always make sure you're on the official .gov site.

you can also go to WorkSource offices but honestly the online option is way easier. I went in person once and waited forever just to be told to file online anyway lol

One thing to note - you'll need to create a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account if you don't already have one. That's the login system Washington ESD uses for all their online services.

I tried calling Washington ESD when I had questions about where to file and could never get through. The hold times are insane. Online is definitely the way to go.

Pro tip: file your claim on Sunday evening or early Monday morning. The system is less busy then and you're less likely to run into technical issues.

Don't forget you'll also need to register with WorkSourceWA.com for the job search requirements. It's separate from filing your initial claim but you'll need it for ongoing weekly claims.

The Washington ESD website has a really good FAQ section that walks through the whole process. I recommend reading through it before you start your application.

Just remember to keep records of everything - your application confirmation number, any correspondence from Washington ESD, etc. You'll need these for reference later.

If you run into any issues during the application process, don't panic. The system will save your progress if you need to step away and come back to it later.

I would recommend having your Social Security card and driver's license handy when you file. Sometimes the system asks for verification of your identity information.

The Washington ESD mobile app isn't great for filing initial claims. Stick with the desktop website if possible - it's much more reliable.

Once you file, you'll get a confirmation email. Make sure to check your spam folder if you don't see it right away. Sometimes Washington ESD emails end up there.

One last thing - after you file your initial claim, you'll need to wait for Washington ESD to process it before you can start filing weekly claims. This can take a few days to a week typically.

If you need to speak with someone at Washington ESD about your application and can't get through by phone, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier might be worth trying. I used it when I had adjudication issues and it saved me a lot of frustration.

Remember that filing for unemployment is your right if you're eligible. Don't feel bad about needing assistance - that's what the system is there for.

Good luck with your application! The Washington ESD online system at secure.esd.wa.gov is really the most efficient way to get your claim started. You've got this!