Just want to add another important detail - when you're filling out the application, pay special attention to the reason for separation section. Since you mentioned you were laid off due to company downsizing, make sure you select "lack of work" or "layoff" as your reason rather than anything that might suggest you quit or were fired. This is crucial because it affects your eligibility. Also, if your employer provided any layoff documentation or WARN notice, keep copies of those as backup. Washington ESD might not ask for them initially, but having that paperwork can be helpful if any questions arise about your separation. The key is being consistent with whatever your employer reports to the state.

I just wanted to share my recent experience since I went through this exact same process last month. The most helpful thing I did was create a checklist before starting - write down all your employer info, Social Security number, and bank details for direct deposit setup. The application took me about 45 minutes, but I had everything organized beforehand. One thing that surprised me was getting a text confirmation right after submitting, so don't panic if you don't see an immediate email. Also, definitely apply during off-peak hours if possible - I did mine early morning on a Tuesday and the website was much more responsive than when I tried on a Sunday afternoon. The waiting is honestly the hardest part, but once you get that first payment, you'll feel so much relief. Hang in there!

The key is just being consistent and not overthinking it. File during your assigned week, answer the questions honestly, and you'll be fine.

Just to add another perspective - if you're ever unsure about your filing week, you can also check your determination letter that Washington ESD sent when you were approved. It should have your weekly claim filing schedule listed there. I keep mine bookmarked on my phone so I can double-check if needed. Also worth noting that the system will usually tell you when your next filing week is after you submit each weekly claim, so you'll get into the rhythm pretty quickly.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I feel so much better about the whole process now. I'll file my first weekly claim this Sunday and see how it goes.

Just wanted to add that if you're still within your first few weeks, double-check that you've completed your waiting week properly. I made the mistake of thinking I could file immediately after approval, but you actually can't receive benefits for that first week - it's just a waiting period. So don't panic if your first weekly claim doesn't result in a payment right away. The system will show you clearly which weeks are payable vs. your waiting week once you get into the routine.

I'm dealing with the exact same frustration! Been trying to reach them about my claim for almost two weeks now. Based on all the advice here, I'm going to try calling Tuesday morning around 10am and also check out that Claimyr service that multiple people have mentioned. It's ridiculous that we have to jump through so many hoops just to get basic help with our unemployment claims. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and tips!

I've been dealing with this exact same issue for weeks now! Reading through all these comments is both frustrating and helpful - at least I know I'm not the only one struggling with Washington ESD's phone system. I'm definitely going to try some of the strategies mentioned here, like calling on Tuesday or Wednesday mornings around 10am, and I'm seriously considering that Claimyr service since so many people have had success with it. It's absolutely ridiculous that we have to resort to third-party services just to talk to someone about our own unemployment benefits. The system is clearly broken when people are waiting weeks just to get basic questions answered. Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences and tips - this community is more helpful than Washington ESD's actual customer service!

Great question! I went through this exact situation last year when I was between jobs. The key thing to remember is that ESD cares more about your availability to work than the specific activities you're doing. I volunteered at a literacy center for about 8 hours a week and always reported it in the weekly claim under the section asking about activities that might affect availability. I wrote something like "Volunteer work at local nonprofit - unpaid, flexible schedule, would immediately stop if offered employment." Never had any issues with my benefits because I made it clear that: - It was unpaid - My schedule was flexible around job interviews - I was still doing my required job searches - I could quit volunteering immediately for a job Food bank work is especially good because it's clearly community service and shows you're staying active. Just be transparent with ESD about it and you should be fine. Good luck with both the job search and the volunteering!

I'm in a similar boat - got laid off from retail management two weeks ago and was thinking about volunteering at our local animal rescue. Reading through all these responses, it sounds like the consensus is to report it in the "activities that might affect availability" section but emphasize that it's unpaid, flexible, and you'd quit immediately for a job opportunity. One thing I'm curious about - has anyone here ever had ESD actually follow up or ask questions about their volunteer work after reporting it? I'm wondering if they just note it in your file or if they sometimes want more details about the organization or schedule. Also @Jamal Wilson, food banks are amazing and really need the help right now. Even if there's some paperwork hassle with reporting it to ESD, you'll be making such a difference in your community while staying productive during your job search!