Where do I sign up for unemployment benefits in Washington?

Thank you! Do I need any specific documents or information before I start the application?

Yes, have your Social Security number ready, employment history for the last 18 months including employer names and addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation. Also your bank info for direct deposit.

Is the SAW account the same thing I'd use for other state stuff like renewing my license?

Exactly! It's the unified login system for Washington state services.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already worried about money.

It's worth checking out their site for details, but honestly after spending days trying to get through the regular way, it was a lifesaver for getting my questions answered quickly.

Wait, what do you mean weekly claims? I thought you just applied once?

No, after your initial application, you have to file a 'weekly claim' every week to certify that you're still unemployed and looking for work. It's like checking in with the system.

And you have to report any work you do that week, even if it's just a few hours of freelance or temp work!

Good to know. What are the peak times I should avoid?

Monday mornings are usually the worst since everyone's filing their weekly claims. Mid-week afternoons tend to be better.

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week?

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep detailed records. WorkSource has tools to help track this.

The job search requirement is no joke - they can audit your records and if you don't have proper documentation, you could have to pay back benefits.

It definitely has a learning curve, but once you get through the initial setup it becomes routine. The most important thing is just getting your application filed ASAP.

yeah i guess, just frustrated that i have to become an expert in unemployment when i should be focusing on finding a new job

What determines if you have a waiting week or not?

It's mostly been eliminated, but certain types of separations or if you've had recent disqualifications might still trigger one. The system will tell you when you apply.

How long does adjudication usually take?

Can be anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the issue. If it goes on too long, that's when calling Washington ESD becomes important.

That's exactly when I used Claimyr - my claim was stuck in adjudication for 3 weeks and I couldn't get through to anyone. Finally got connected to an agent who cleared it up in 10 minutes.

What if I don't remember exact dates from a year ago?

Check old pay stubs, tax documents, or contact your previous employers' HR departments. It's worth getting the exact dates rather than guessing.

I was laid off due to budget cuts, so that should be straightforward.

Perfect, that's a clear-cut case. Just make sure you select the right option in the dropdown menu.

This is smart advice! I had an issue where the system timed out and I wasn't sure if my weekly claim went through.

Exactly! And save confirmation numbers for everything.

Is there any way to check the status of my application after I submit it?

Yes, you can log back into your account and check your claim status. It will show whether it's pending, approved, or if there are any issues.

Do I need a specific type of bank account?

Any checking or savings account works. Just have your routing and account numbers ready.

I was skeptical about services like this at first, but honestly the Washington ESD phone system is so bad that anything that helps you get through is worth it.

Good to know there are options if I can't get through the normal way. Thanks everyone for all the help!

What's the app called in the app store?

It's called 'Washington ESD' - pretty straightforward. Same login as the website.

The app is decent but sometimes the website works better for complex stuff. Good to have both options though.

Thanks, I really appreciate everyone taking the time to help. Feeling much more confident about tackling this now.

We've all been there! The unemployment system isn't perfect but it's there to help. You've got this!

Should I print stuff out or are digital records okay?

Digital is fine, just make sure you back it up. Cloud storage or email yourself copies of important stuff.

I keep a simple spreadsheet with dates and what I did each week. Makes it easy to reference later.

Thank you so much! Going to start my application right now while I have all this info fresh in my mind.

Smart move! Better to get it done today than put it off. Best of luck!

And remember, if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD and can't get through, Claimyr.com is there as a backup option. Sometimes talking to a real person makes all the difference.