where do i file for unemployment - Washington ESD application process?

thanks! do i need any specific documents or info before i start?

Yes, have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready. You'll also need your most recent pay stub and separation notice if you have it.

what's adjudication? sounds scary

It's just when they need to review your claim for eligibility. Could be anything from verifying your reason for separation to checking if you're able and available for work. Usually takes 2-4 weeks.

how much does that cost? seems like we shouldn't have to pay extra just to talk to someone

I get the frustration but honestly it was worth it for me rather than spending entire days trying to get through. The Washington ESD phone system is just overwhelmed.

I feel you on the phone situation. The call volume is insane. Try calling right at 8am when they open or during lunch hours when it might be less busy.

tried that already, still get the busy signal or get disconnected after waiting for an hour

i got laid off due to company downsizing so that should be ok right?

Yes, layoffs due to lack of work are typically eligible for benefits. Just make sure you have documentation from your employer about the layoff.

how do the weekly claims work exactly?

You log into your Washington ESD account every week and answer questions about your job search activities, any work you did, and confirm you're still unemployed and looking for work.

And don't lie about your job search! They do check and you need to be actively looking for work to remain eligible.

3 weeks isn't too bad i guess. did you have any problems with the process?

Not really, just had to submit some additional paperwork about the restaurant closure. Washington ESD was actually pretty helpful once I got through to someone.

that's interesting, where do i find info about those programs?

Check out worksourcewa.com - they have listings of training programs and also help with job search activities that count toward your weekly requirements.

lol so true, that's why services like claimyr are getting popular

yeah i might have to try that if i keep having issues

perfect, that's exactly what i needed to know. going to start the application right now

Good luck! Remember to keep track of all your job search activities from day one, even before your first payment. You'll need to report them on your weekly claims.

That's actually really helpful to know. The phone situation is definitely the worst part of dealing with Washington ESD.

Exactly. For simple stuff the website works fine, but when you need to actually talk to someone about your specific situation, having a way to skip the phone tree is huge.

oh good point, i'll definitely get on this today then

Smart move. Also keep all your paperwork organized because if there are any questions about your claim you'll want to have everything ready to submit.

This is actually really good advice. I had to resubmit part of my application because of a technical error.

exactly, better safe than sorry with government websites

i'll check that out too, thanks for all the help everyone

No problem! The unemployment process can be stressful but once you get through the initial application it gets more routine.

good to know! how long does it usually take to get the card?

Usually about 7-10 business days after your claim is approved. The card comes from KeyBank, not directly from Washington ESD.

Yes, and you can also set up direct deposit instead of using the debit card if you prefer. That option is in your online account settings.

that doesn't sound too bad, i was worried it would take hours

nah the actual application is pretty quick, it's just the prep work that takes time

thanks for saying that, i was actually feeling pretty down about having to file

It's a safety net that exists for exactly this situation. Focus on finding your next opportunity and let the benefits help you bridge the gap.

It's definitely not perfect but most people do eventually get through the process successfully. Try to stay patient with it.

i guess youre right, just venting my frustration with the whole thing

i'll keep that in mind if i need to call them for anything

The video demo I linked earlier shows exactly how it works if you want to check it out ahead of time.

thanks everyone for all the advice, feeling much more confident about this now

That's great to hear! Don't hesitate to come back and ask if you run into any specific issues during the process.