I'm in a similar situation - filed my claim about 10 days ago and it's been showing "pending determination" the whole time. Reading through all these responses is really helpful, especially learning that I should be filing weekly claims even while it's pending! I had no idea about that requirement and was waiting for approval first. Also going to set up those text notifications that Mikayla mentioned - seems like a much better way to stay informed than constantly refreshing the page. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences, it's reassuring to know this waiting period is normal even though it's stressful when bills are due.

I'm going through this exact same process right now - submitted my claim about 5 days ago and keep checking the status obsessively! It's really helpful to read everyone's experiences and realize this waiting period is totally normal. The tip about filing weekly claims even while pending is crucial - I almost made the same mistake of waiting for approval first. Also setting up those text notifications sounds like a lifesaver compared to constantly refreshing the page. One question for those who've been through this - is there any pattern to when they typically update statuses during the week, or is it pretty random? Trying to manage my expectations about when I might see a change from "pending determination.

One more tip - if you end up in adjudication and can't get through on the phone, try the secure messaging system on your Washington ESD account. Response times vary but sometimes it's faster than waiting on hold for hours. Though honestly, after my experience trying to reach them for weeks, I finally used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and got connected in like 20 minutes.

Just want to echo what others have said - definitely file for partial unemployment! I was in a similar situation where my retail job cut everyone's hours from full-time to 20-25 hours per week. The partial benefits really helped bridge the gap while I looked for additional income. The application process is straightforward through the Washington ESD website, just make sure you have your employment history and wage information handy. Also, don't let the job search requirement intimidate you - three contacts per week is totally manageable, and you can count online applications, networking, even attending job fairs. The key is being consistent with your weekly claims and reporting your earnings accurately. It might take a few weeks to see your first payment, but it's definitely worth applying sooner rather than later since there's usually a waiting period anyway.

One last tip - if you're worried about benefits running out, make sure you're not missing any weekly certifications. Missing even one week can mess up your claim and potentially reduce your total benefits.

If you're having trouble finding the claim summary on the SecureAccess Washington site, try this: after logging in, look for "UI Online" then click on "View and Maintain Account Information" - that's where you'll find your claim summary with remaining weeks and benefit year end date. The interface isn't very user-friendly but once you know the exact path it's easier to navigate. Also, keep in mind that your remaining weeks will decrease even if you have partial earnings that week, so don't just count the weeks you've received full payments.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago. My benefits ran out and I was terrified, but here's what I learned: First, don't wait - start applying for everything you can think of RIGHT NOW. I applied for SNAP benefits, got on the waitlist for rental assistance, and registered with every temp agency in my area. Second, take any work you can get, even if it's not ideal. I did gig work, part-time retail, whatever I could find. After about 3 months of piecing together income, I had enough wages to file a new UI claim when that work ended. It was scary but I made it through. You can too - just don't give up and start taking action today.

I'm in a similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful. One thing I want to add is that you should also check if your previous employer offers any kind of outplacement services or job search assistance - sometimes companies provide this even after layoffs and it can include access to job boards, resume help, or networking events. Also, if you have any professional licenses or certifications, make sure they're current because some employers are more likely to hire people with up-to-date credentials, even for temporary positions. The gig economy apps like Uber, DoorDash, or Instacart can provide immediate income while you're building up wages for a new claim. It's not glamorous work but it's flexible and you can start earning right away. Don't lose hope - this situation feels overwhelming but there are paths forward.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago with a temp agency placement that lasted 5 months. The agency kept giving me the runaround about "maybe next week" for new assignments, so I finally just filed for unemployment benefits. Best decision I made! Got approved within about 2 weeks and have been collecting ever since while looking for permanent work. The key things that helped me were: 1) Filing immediately after my assignment ended rather than waiting around, 2) Being very clear on the application that my "assignment was completed" rather than saying I quit or was fired, and 3) Keeping all my paperwork from the temp agency just in case. Don't let anyone make you feel guilty about filing - you worked, you paid taxes, and you're entitled to these benefits just like anyone else whose job ended. The temporary nature of the work doesn't disqualify you at all in Washington state.

I've been working temp assignments through agencies for about 3 years now and have filed for unemployment between assignments several times - never had a single issue! The process is exactly the same as if you were laid off from a regular job. My advice: file immediately when your assignment ends (don't wait for the agency to "maybe" find you something), be clear that your assignment was completed rather than saying you quit, and keep all your documentation from the temp agency. Washington state treats temp work the same as any other employment for UI purposes. You paid into the system through your paychecks, so you've absolutely earned these benefits. Don't let anyone make you feel like temporary work somehow doesn't "count" - it definitely does!