Where do you go to apply for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

You apply online through the Washington ESD website at esd.wa.gov. There's no need to go anywhere in person anymore - everything is done digitally now. You'll need to create an account and file your initial application there.

The official Washington ESD site is your best bet but fair warning - their system can be really slow and glitchy. I'd recommend applying early in the morning or late at night when fewer people are trying to use it.

I had such a nightmare trying to get through to Washington ESD when I had questions about my application. Spent literally hours on hold just to get disconnected. If you run into issues and need to actually talk to someone, I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that helps you get through to ESD agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Make sure you apply ASAP because there's a waiting week in Washington. Your first week won't be paid but you still need to file your weekly claim. Don't wait thinking you'll find a job quickly - it's better to have the safety net in place.

the esd website is a pain but its the only way to do it now, they dont have physical offices for regular claims anymore

When you do apply, make sure you have accurate information about your last day worked and your final paycheck. Washington ESD is really picky about dates and if you get them wrong it can delay your claim for weeks while they sort it out.

Also heads up that after you file your initial claim you'll need to file weekly claims every week to get paid, even while you're waiting for approval. Don't skip any weeks or you'll lose those payments.

I'm going through this process right now and it's been a nightmare. Filed 2 weeks ago and my claim is still under adjudication with no updates. The phone system is completely useless - I've called 50+ times and either get busy signals or get disconnected after waiting on hold.

Just to add - you'll also need to register with WorkSource Washington as part of the process. They'll give you instructions on that after you file your initial claim. It's required for the job search stuff.

The whole system is so confusing for first timers. I wish they had better guidance on the website about what to expect and what documents you need. Took me three tries to get my application submitted correctly.

Pro tip: screenshot everything when you're applying and filing weekly claims. The system glitches sometimes and having screenshots can help if you need to prove you submitted something.

One more thing - if you worked in another state in the past 18 months you might need to file in that state instead, or file a combined wage claim. The Washington ESD website has info about that but it gets complicated.

If you're really struggling with the online system or have questions about your specific situation, sometimes the local WorkSource offices can help walk you through the process. They can't file for you but they can help you understand what you need to do.

Been on unemployment twice in the past 5 years and honestly the process gets easier once you know what to expect. The hardest part is just that first application and figuring out all the requirements.

The waiting can be really stressful, especially when you're worried about bills. Just remember that if you're approved you'll get back pay to your first eligible week, so don't panic if it takes a while to process.

Also worth mentioning that you can check your claim status online once you've filed. Don't expect instant updates though - sometimes it takes days for changes to show up in the system.

washington esd is backed up like crazy right now so expect delays on everything. my friend filed 3 weeks ago and still hasnt heard anything

Don't forget that you'll need to report any income you earn while on unemployment, including part-time work or gig work. Being honest about earnings is super important to avoid overpayment issues later.

Good luck with your application! The system isn't perfect but unemployment benefits are there for exactly this situation. Just stay organized and persistent if you run into any roadblocks.