


Ask the community...
Veterans might qualify for additional federal programs through the VA or special workforce development grants. Check with your local veterans' services office.
If you're a veteran trying to navigate this, definitely use Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD. They can explain veteran-specific programs that regular staff might not mention. The phone system is so backed up that getting accurate info is tough otherwise.
The reality is harsh but most people have to find some kind of work before benefits run out, even if it's not ideal. The safety net has too many gaps.
One more thing - when you file, Washington ESD might put your claim in adjudication if there are any questions about your separation. Don't panic if that happens, it just means they need to verify some details with your employer.
It's just a review process to make sure you qualify for benefits. Takes a few weeks usually but you'll get paid retroactively if approved.
If your claim goes into adjudication and you need to talk to someone about it, that's another situation where Claimyr can help you reach an agent to check on status.
Bottom line: file now, don't wait another day. The process isn't that complicated once you start, and you'll kick yourself if you wait longer and lose even more weeks of benefits.
One last tip - keep detailed records of all your unemployment tax payments. Both federal and state. You'll need them for audits and year-end reporting.
Just to summarize for the OP - you'll pay FUTA (federal) directly to IRS and state unemployment tax to Washington ESD. Both are calculated on wages but have different rates and wage bases. Stay current on both to avoid penalties and maintain the FUTA credit.
If anyone figures out the magic formula for getting through, please share! We're all struggling with the same thing here.
Will definitely update if I find something that works consistently. This thread has given me some new ideas to try.
Seriously, the Claimyr thing I mentioned earlier has been the most reliable method I've found. Check out that demo video if you're curious.
Update: Finally got through using the early morning strategy! Called at exactly 8:00 AM and waited on hold for 2 hours but actually talked to someone. They were able to clear up my pending issue. Don't give up!
Lauren Wood
just wanted to say good luck with the car search! having reliable transportation makes such a difference when you're job hunting. you'll figure something out
0 coins
Ryan Vasquez
•Thanks! All this advice has been really helpful. Feel much more prepared to start shopping around now.
0 coins
Keith Davidson
•Keep us posted on how it goes! This kind of info helps other people in similar situations.
0 coins
Ellie Lopez
if you end up needing to contact washington esd for any reason during this process, that claimyr thing people mentioned actually worked for me too when i needed to verify my benefits for a rental application. way faster than trying to get through their main number
0 coins
Ryan Vasquez
•Seems like multiple people have had success with it. Might be worth trying if I need official documentation quickly.
0 coins
Ellie Lopez
•yeah especially if you're working with a dealer who needs verification fast. regular ESD phone lines can take days to get through to anyone useful
0 coins