Where do I file for unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about the process

You'll file everything online through the Washington ESD website at esd.wa.gov. There's no need to go to a physical office unless you have specific issues that require in-person help. The whole process is done digitally now, and you'll need to create an account through SecureAccess Washington (SAW) to access the unemployment filing system.

The online system can be pretty confusing at first. Make sure you have all your employer information ready before you start - names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation. The system will ask for details about your last day of work and whether you received any severance pay.

Just went through this process last month and it was actually pretty straightforward once I got started. The hardest part was getting through to someone at Washington ESD when I had questions about my claim status. I ended up using a service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual person at the unemployment office. You can check out their demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ to see how it works.

File ASAP! There's usually a waiting week before benefits start, and you want to get your claim in as soon as possible after your last day of work. Don't wait thinking you might find a job quickly - you can always cancel the claim if you find work before benefits start.

make sure you file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still being processed. i made that mistake and it delayed everything by weeks

One thing to be prepared for - if there are any issues with your claim, it might go into adjudication. This means they need to review something about your employment or separation. Don't panic if this happens, but it can add weeks to the process.

The Washington ESD website has a pretty good step-by-step guide for filing. I'd recommend reading through it before you start your application so you know what to expect. Also, file during off-peak hours if possible - the system can be slow during busy times.

Don't forget about the job search requirements! You'll need to be actively looking for work and keeping a log of your job search activities. This starts right away, so begin looking and documenting your efforts even while your claim is being processed.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now. Filed two weeks ago and still waiting for my claim to be approved. The uncertainty is killing me financially.

The system has gotten much better since the pandemic, but it's still not perfect. Budget extra time for the application process and don't get discouraged if you run into technical issues.

Quick tip: Save screenshots of every page during your application process. If there are any technical issues or if you need to reference something later, having those screenshots can be really helpful.

Also remember that your benefit amount is based on your wages during your base period, which is usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you've been at your job for 2 years, you should have a decent base period.

don't forget to report any part-time work or odd jobs you might do while collecting benefits. you can usually still collect partial benefits but you have to report all income

The waiting is really the hardest part. Once your claim is approved and you start receiving benefits, the weekly routine becomes pretty straightforward. Just stay on top of your weekly claims and job search requirements.

If you run into any issues during the filing process, don't give up. The system can be glitchy sometimes, but persistence pays off. And if you get stuck, there are resources to help you get through to someone at Washington ESD.

One last thing - make sure you understand the difference between your initial claim and your weekly claims. The initial claim establishes your eligibility and benefit amount, while weekly claims are how you actually request payment each week.

Good luck with your claim! The manufacturing layoffs have been rough lately, but the unemployment system is there to help bridge the gap while you find your next opportunity.

Just to follow up on my earlier comment about getting through to Washington ESD - if anyone needs to speak with someone directly about their claim, Claimyr has been really helpful for me and others I know. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get answers about your specific situation.

The key is to stay organized and keep good records of everything. File promptly, keep track of your job search activities, and don't hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. The system works, but it takes patience.

Best of luck with your claim process! Manufacturing jobs can be tough to replace, but with unemployment benefits providing some financial stability, you'll have time to find the right opportunity.