Where do you apply for unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about Washington ESD process

You apply online through the Washington Employment Security Department (ESD) website at esd.wa.gov. Don't need to go anywhere in person unless there's a specific issue with your claim. The online application is pretty straightforward - you'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months.

Make sure you apply as soon as possible! There's a waiting week but the sooner you get your claim in the better. I waited a few days after getting laid off and wish I hadn't.

The Washington ESD website can be tricky to navigate at first. When you go to esd.wa.gov, look for the 'Apply for Benefits' section. You'll create an account and then fill out the initial application. After that, you'll need to file weekly claims to continue receiving benefits.

Just went through this myself last month. One thing I wish someone had told me - if you have trouble getting through to Washington ESD by phone (which you probably will), there's actually a service called Claimyr that helps you reach agents. Found it at claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Saved me hours of calling and getting busy signals.

ugh the washington esd website is so confusing!! took me forever to figure out where to even start the application

One important thing - make sure you're actually eligible before applying. You need to have worked and earned wages in Washington state, and you need to be unemployed through no fault of your own. Getting fired for misconduct or quitting without good cause can disqualify you.

Does anyone know if you can start the application and save it to finish later? I don't have all my employment dates memorized and might need to look stuff up.

Pro tip: Apply online early in the morning or late at night. The website gets super slow during business hours when everyone's trying to use it.

Also don't forget about the job search requirements once you start receiving benefits. You'll need to make contacts with employers and keep a log of your search activities.

Is there a phone number to call if you need help with the application process?

Make sure you understand the difference between filing your initial claim and filing weekly claims. The initial claim is what you're doing now, but then every week you need to 'certify' that you're still unemployed and looking for work.

been unemployed 3 times in my life and washington esd process gets easier each time but that first time is definitely confusing

What happens if you make a mistake on the application? Can you go back and fix it?

The Washington ESD system has gotten better over the years but it's still not the most user-friendly. Take your time and read all the instructions carefully.

One more thing about Claimyr - if you do end up needing to speak with Washington ESD about your claim status or any issues, it's really worth checking out. Saved me so much frustration trying to get through on my own.

Remember that unemployment benefits are taxable income, so don't be surprised when tax season comes around. You can have taxes withheld from your benefits if you want.

If your claim gets complicated or goes into adjudication for some reason, don't give up. Sometimes it takes persistence to get things resolved with Washington ESD.

Good luck with your application! The process seems overwhelming at first but most people get through it fine. Just take it step by step.

Also worth mentioning - keep checking your account regularly after you apply. Sometimes Washington ESD needs additional information and they'll post notices in your online account.