Where to file unemployment claim in Washington - need help with ESD application process

Thank you! Is that the same place where I'll file my weekly claims later?

Yes, once your claim is approved you'll use the same esd.wa.gov portal for your weekly claim filings.

Do I create the SAW account first or can I do it as part of filing the unemployment claim?

Create it first, it makes the whole process smoother. The unemployment application will ask you to log in with your SAW credentials.

This is super helpful! How long did it take for your claim to get approved?

Mine took about 2 weeks but I had a straightforward layoff situation. If there are any issues with your separation from work it might go into adjudication which takes longer.

Really? How does that work exactly? Do they charge you to make the call?

They handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent picks up. Way better than sitting on hold for hours or getting the busy signal.

That actually sounds pretty useful. I've been trying to reach them about my adjudication for weeks with no luck.

Oh no, I was laid off yesterday (Thursday). Should I file today or wait until Sunday when the new week starts?

File as soon as possible! The waiting week doesn't apply in Washington anymore so you'll get benefits starting from your first eligible week.

What kind of documentation did they ask for? I want to be prepared.

They wanted verification of my last wages, proof of my job search activities, and documentation about why I was laid off. Just be ready for anything.

When do I start filing weekly claims? Right after I submit my initial application?

Yes, you should file your first weekly claim for the week you submit your initial application. The system will tell you when your next weekly claim is due.

I was laid off due to company downsizing. Should I select 'lack of work' as the reason?

Yes, 'lack of work' is correct for a layoff situation. That should process without any issues.

Where do I keep track of my job search activities? Is there a form on the Washington ESD website?

Yes, there's a job search log you can access through your esd.wa.gov account. You can also use WorkSourceWA.com to track some of your activities.

Good to know! Is there a deadline for weekly claims or can I file any time during the week?

You have until Saturday night to file your weekly claim for that week. I usually file mine on Monday mornings to avoid the weekend rush.

Is that worksourcewa.com? Do I need to register there before filing my unemployment claim?

You can register after filing your initial claim but don't wait too long. It's part of your ongoing requirements to receive benefits.

That's smart! Have you had issues with the system losing information?

It happened to me once during peak hours. Had to start over but at least I had my answers saved from the screenshots.

How will I know if my claim goes into adjudication? Will I get notified?

You'll see it in your account status and usually get a notice in the mail or through your online account. Just be patient and respond to any requests for information quickly.

I'm definitely going to look into that. Spent 4 hours on hold yesterday and never got through.

Yeah the phone system is brutal. This way you don't have to sit there listening to hold music all day.

Can I change my address later if I move while receiving benefits?

Yes but you need to update it immediately in both your SAW account and your unemployment account. Don't let mail get sent to old addresses.

Thank you everyone! I feel much more confident about filing now. Going to create my SAW account tonight and file tomorrow morning.

Good luck! The hardest part is just getting started. Once you get into the routine of weekly claims it becomes second nature.

Great advice! Should I print the weekly claim confirmations every week?

I do, just to be safe. Only takes a few seconds and it's saved me when I needed to prove I filed on time.

That's reassuring to hear. I keep reading horror stories online about people waiting months for benefits.

Those were mostly from 2020-2021 when the system was overwhelmed. Regular claims process much faster now if you don't have any complications.

How do I know what my base period is? Is that explained somewhere in the application?

Yes, there's information about base periods on the Washington ESD website. Generally it's the first four of the last five completed quarters before you file.

Several people have mentioned that service. Might be worth it if I run into problems.

It's definitely worth it if you value your time. I was able to get my issue resolved in one call instead of trying for weeks on my own.

Thanks so much everyone! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I'm going to bookmark this for reference.

You're welcome! Feel free to ask if you run into any other questions during the process.