Where do I file for unemployment if I moved to Washington from another state?

That makes sense, but what if I can't get through to their unemployment office? I've heard some states are really backed up.

Each state has different wait times, but you should still try to file there first. Don't delay - you want to get your claim started as soon as possible.

How long did it take for her claim to get approved? I'm worried about the timeline since I need to start paying bills here.

It took about 3 weeks I think, but that was before all the system upgrades. Your mileage may vary.

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work or is it just another service trying to make money off desperate people?

I was skeptical too but it actually got me through to an agent when I couldn't reach anyone for weeks. It's designed specifically for these high-volume unemployment call situations.

Thanks for the suggestion! I'll look into it if I can't get through the normal way.

That's not how the unemployment system works. Each state manages its own unemployment insurance program and you file where you paid into the system - where you worked and paid taxes.

Oh okay, that's kind of complicated but I guess it makes sense from a bureaucratic standpoint.

Did you have any issues with job search requirements? Like, did you have to look for jobs in Oregon or could you search in Washington?

Great question! I was allowed to search for jobs in Washington since that's where I was actively seeking employment. Most states are flexible about this if you've relocated.

That's really helpful to know. I always wondered how that worked for people who moved during their unemployment period.

Because unemployment insurance is administered by individual states, not the federal government. Each state sets its own benefit amounts and requirements.

Yeah I know WHY it's set up that way, doesn't mean it's not frustrating for people who are already dealing with job loss.

Good point! I should gather all that stuff before I start the application process.

Also make sure you know the exact dates you worked there and your gross wages. They'll ask for specific numbers.

I've been doing some informal job hunting but haven't registered anywhere officially yet. Should I sign up with WorkSourceWA?

It probably wouldn't hurt to register with WorkSourceWA since you're planning to work in Washington. Plus it shows you're actively seeking employment.

Tell me about it! I thought the hard part was going to be finding a new job, not figuring out which state to file unemployment with.

At least you're asking the right questions before filing. Better to get it right the first time than have to deal with corrections later.

That's really reassuring to hear from someone in HR. I was worried about making a mistake and causing problems.

Most unemployment offices are used to helping people navigate these interstate situations. They'd rather help you get it right than have you file incorrectly.

This is good advice. I delayed filing once because I was confused about something minor and ended up losing a week of benefits.

I've tried this approach but still end up getting disconnected after waiting for hours. It's so frustrating.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - it handles all that waiting and calling for you so you don't have to spend your whole day on hold.

Good point! I definitely want to be completely honest about everything. Last thing I need is to get in trouble for providing incorrect information.

Absolutely. They may send you mail and you want to make sure you receive any important correspondence about your claim.

I didn't have to do anything special with Washington ESD when I was in this situation. Your unemployment claim is handled entirely by your previous state.

Though if you're planning to work in Washington long-term, it doesn't hurt to familiarize yourself with WorkSourceWA and other local employment resources.

Oh wow, I didn't realize that! I've been putting this off for over a week already. I need to get moving on this.

Yeah, that's called the 'waiting week' issue. Every week you delay is potentially a week of benefits you can't recover.

This is really important info. I wish they made this clearer when people first lose their jobs.

I'll definitely look into that. Maybe their online help will be more accessible than trying to call.

Just make sure to document any communications you have with them in case you need to reference it later.