Where do I get unemployment benefits in Washington - complete beginner guide

Everything is done online through the Washington ESD website at esd.wa.gov. You'll need to create an account on SecureAccess Washington (SAW) first, then file your initial claim. Don't go to any physical offices unless you absolutely have to - they're pretty much appointment only now.

Make sure you have all your info ready before you start - previous employer info, wages, dates of employment, reason for separation. The application can take 30-45 minutes if you don't have everything organized.

Honestly the Washington ESD website can be confusing at first. I spent like 2 hours trying to figure out the right forms when I first applied. The system works but it's not super user friendly.

If you get stuck trying to reach someone at Washington ESD by phone, I found this service called Claimyr that actually got me through to an agent. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Really helpful when you need to talk to someone directly about your claim.

The main thing is don't wait to apply. You can file your claim the same day you lose your job. There's a waiting week but the sooner you start the process the better.

Also make sure you're eligible first. You need to have worked enough quarters and earned enough wages. If you were fired for misconduct you might not qualify.

One tip - create your SAW account BEFORE you try to file. Sometimes the system gets overwhelmed and it's easier to do it in steps rather than all at once.

Oh and heads up - after you file your initial claim you'll need to file weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. Even if you're still waiting for your first payment.

The job search requirement is 3 job contacts per week minimum. Keep track of everything - company names, dates, positions, how you applied. You might need to show proof.

I used Claimyr too when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Really worth it if you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD. Their phone system is a nightmare otherwise.

Don't forget you'll need to register with WorkSource too for the job search stuff. It's all connected to your unemployment claim.

Just be patient with the whole process. It can take 2-3 weeks to get your first payment even if everything goes smoothly. Don't panic if you don't hear anything right away.

Make sure you have a good phone number and email on file. They'll contact you that way if there are any issues with your claim.

The website has a lot of good info too if you poke around. FAQs, handbooks, guides for different situations. Worth reading through some of that stuff.

One more thing - keep copies of everything. Screenshots of your claim, records of your job searches, any correspondence from Washington ESD. You never know when you might need it.

If you do run into issues reaching Washington ESD later, definitely consider Claimyr. I know I mentioned it before but it really made a difference for me when I needed to get through to someone about my claim status.

The whole system can be overwhelming at first but you'll get the hang of it. Just take it one step at a time and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Remember that your first payment might be delayed if they need to verify anything with your employer. It's normal, just part of the process.

Also don't forget that unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can have taxes taken out automatically or pay them later, but just be aware of that.

Good luck with everything! The unemployment system isn't perfect but it's there to help you get back on your feet. Just follow the rules and you should be fine.