Where to go to file for unemployment - Washington ESD process?

You need to go to esd.wa.gov - that's the official Washington ESD website. Don't use any other sites because there are scam sites out there. The filing process is completely online now, you can't file in person anymore.

The official process is through esd.wa.gov but fair warning - their phone system is absolutely terrible if you need to talk to someone. I spent weeks trying to get through when my claim got stuck in adjudication.

Here's what you need to know about filing: Go to esd.wa.gov, click on 'File a Claim for Benefits', and you'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment information for the last 18 months. Make sure you have all your previous employers' addresses and dates of employment ready.

whatever you do dont wait to file!! I made that mistake and lost out on benefits because I thought I had to wait until my last day or something. You can file the day you lose your job.

The website is esd.wa.gov but honestly the whole system is a nightmare. I've been waiting 5 weeks for my adjudication to clear and can't get anyone on the phone. The automated system just hangs up on you after making you wait forever.

To directly answer your question: esd.wa.gov is where you file. But also be prepared for potential delays and issues. The system works fine for straightforward cases, but if anything gets flagged for review you might be in for a long wait.

Just file online at esd.wa.gov - it's pretty straightforward. The website walks you through everything step by step. Don't overthink it!

IMPORTANT: After you file your initial claim on esd.wa.gov, you have to file weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. Don't forget about that part or you'll miss payments.

I filed last month and it was pretty easy through esd.wa.gov. The hardest part was gathering all the employment information they wanted, especially from jobs I had 2 years ago.

esd.wa.gov is correct but make sure you're on the right page. There's 'File a New Claim' vs 'Reopen a Claim' - you want the new claim option if this is your first time filing.

Pro tip: file your claim early in the morning if possible. The website gets slower later in the day, especially on Mondays when everyone's trying to file their weekly claims.

One more thing - when you file on esd.wa.gov, write down your claim number or take a screenshot. You'll need it for reference if you have to call about anything later.

The process through esd.wa.gov is straightforward but if you run into any snags and need to actually talk to someone, that's where it gets tricky. I used a service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an agent when I couldn't reach anyone myself.

Just to add - after you file on esd.wa.gov, you'll get a determination letter in the mail (or electronically) telling you if you're approved and how much you'll get per week. Don't panic if it takes a few days to arrive.

Make sure when you go to esd.wa.gov that you're using a secure connection (https). There are scam sites that try to look like the real thing.