Where do I go to sign up for unemployment in Washington state?

You'll need to file your claim online at esd.wa.gov - that's the official Washington ESD website. The whole process is digital now, no in-person visits required. You'll create an account through SecureAccess Washington (SAW) first, then file your initial claim.

heads up the website can be really slow sometimes, especially on mondays when everyone's trying to file their weekly claims. if you get kicked out just try again later

I was in your same situation last month - total panic mode after getting laid off. The Washington ESD website at esd.wa.gov is where you need to go. One thing that really helped me was watching some YouTube videos about the process first. Also, if you run into issues reaching someone at ESD by phone (which you probably will), I discovered this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that actually got me through to an agent. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Make sure you file ASAP because there's a waiting week in Washington. The sooner you file, the sooner that week starts counting. Don't wait thinking you need to have everything perfect - you can always provide additional info later if needed.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS A NIGHTMARE. I've been trying to get through to someone at Washington ESD for WEEKS about my claim being stuck in adjudication. The phone system is absolutely useless and their online messaging system is a joke. Good luck getting any real help!

Once you file your initial claim, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to continue receiving benefits. This is done through the same esd.wa.gov website. You'll also need to register with WorkSource Washington for job search requirements.

i just went through this whole process last week. super easy actually. took me like 15 minutes to file online. dont stress about it too much

Wait, I'm confused about something. Do I file for unemployment insurance or unemployment compensation? I keep seeing both terms and I don't know which form to fill out. Also, what if I was working part-time when I got laid off? Does that change anything?

Pro tip: file your claim early in the week, like Tuesday or Wednesday. Mondays are crazy busy and the website tends to crash or run really slow. Also, make sure you have a good internet connection because if you get timed out, you might have to start over.

also dont forget you need to be actively looking for work and available to work. they can ask for proof of your job search activities so keep track of everything

One thing nobody mentioned yet - make sure you answer all the questions honestly on your application. I know someone who got in trouble for not reporting some side gig income and they had to pay back benefits plus penalties. Not worth the risk.

Also be prepared for the possibility that your claim might go into adjudication if there are any questions about your separation from work. This can add several weeks to the process while they investigate. It's not necessarily a bad thing, just means they need to verify information.

I had to use Claimyr a few months ago when my claim got stuck and I couldn't reach anyone at ESD. Honestly, it was a lifesaver. I was getting desperate after calling for weeks with no luck. The service got me through to an actual person who was able to fix my issue in like 10 minutes. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real human being, you know?

dont overthink it. just go to the website and follow the steps. millions of people have done this before you. you got this!

One last thing - after you file your initial claim, you should receive information about when to file your first weekly claim. Usually it's the Sunday after you file your initial claim. Don't miss that deadline or you could lose benefits for that week.

good luck with everything! unemployment sucks but at least washington has decent benefits compared to some other states

Just wanted to add that if you have any military service, make sure to mention that on your application. There might be additional benefits or considerations for veterans that could help with your claim.

Since you're just starting out, I'd recommend bookmarking the ESD website and also signing up for text alerts if they offer them. That way you'll get notified about important deadlines and updates to your claim status.

Remember that even though you're unemployed, you still need to report any income you receive while collecting benefits. This includes things like freelance work, odd jobs, or even selling stuff online if it's regular income.

oh and one more thing - if you get a job offer while on unemployment, you generally have to take it if it's suitable work. they can cut off your benefits if you turn down a reasonable job offer