Just wanted to add one more practical tip - when you're getting ready to file, make sure you have a stable internet connection and set aside at least an hour when you won't be interrupted. I made the mistake of trying to rush through it during my lunch break and the session timed out twice. Also, if you get stuck on any question, there are usually little help icons (?) next to each field that explain what they're looking for. The whole process is much smoother when you're not stressed about time. Good luck with your claim!

Don't forget to gather your employment documents before you start filing! I just went through this process last month and having everything organized made such a difference. You'll want your last few pay stubs, your termination letter or layoff notice, and employment information for any jobs you've held in the past 18 months (employer names, addresses, phone numbers, dates worked, and gross wages earned). Also write down your direct supervisor's name and the HR contact info if you have it. I created a simple list beforehand and it saved me from having to pause mid-application to hunt down information. The online system will walk you through each step, but being prepared definitely reduces stress. Since you mentioned bills are due soon, definitely file as soon as you can - even if your claim takes time to process, the effective date starts when you file, not when it gets approved.

Bottom line: 26 weeks maximum in Washington state, no extensions currently available, and your benefit year lasts 52 weeks from when you first file. Plan accordingly and don't assume you'll find work before your benefits run out.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is that you can check your remaining benefit balance online through your eServices account on the Washington ESD website. It shows exactly how many weeks you have left and your total monetary entitlement remaining. Really helpful for planning purposes rather than trying to count weeks manually. You can also see your benefit year end date right there in your account summary.

UPDATE: I finally got through to ESD using that Claimyr service someone suggested! The agent told me my case was flagged because my employer said I was fired for attendance issues, but I had documentation showing their policy wasn't followed properly. The agent helped me submit the right documentation and said my case should be reviewed within 7-10 days now instead of waiting in the general queue for weeks. Feeling hopeful for the first time in days!

Really glad to hear you got through and have some clarity now! That's exactly why documentation is so important in these cases. Employers will often claim misconduct or policy violations to avoid paying unemployment taxes, but if they didn't follow their own procedures properly, that usually works in your favor. The fact that an actual ESD agent is now handling your case instead of it sitting in the general queue should make a huge difference. 7-10 days is so much better than the 4-8 weeks most people are waiting right now. For anyone else reading this who might be in a similar situation - always save any emails, write-ups, policy documents, or communications with your employer. Even if it seems minor at the time, it could be crucial evidence if your unemployment claim gets contested. Hope you get good news soon and can finally get the benefits you're entitled to!

Just to follow up on my earlier comment - once you get through to someone, ask them to note in your file that you've legally changed your name. This is important because if you ever need to file for unemployment in the future, having mismatched names in their system can cause all sorts of delays in getting your claim processed. Make sure everything matches what's on your Social Security card.

I just went through this exact same process two weeks ago! Call early in the morning (I called at 8:15am) and select option 3 for "General Account Questions." When you get through, tell them right away that you need to update your name due to marriage and that you're NOT on an active claim - this helps them route you to the right person faster. The whole process took about 15 minutes once I got connected. They asked for my SSN, old name, new name, and the date on my marriage certificate. I didn't have to upload anything - they just verified the info over the phone and updated it in their system immediately. They also sent me a confirmation email afterward. One tip: have your marriage certificate in front of you because they'll ask for specific details like the county where you got married and the exact date. Good luck!

Bottom line: you can collect unemployment starting from the week you file your claim, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. Don't overthink it - just file as soon as possible after losing your job and let Washington ESD determine your eligibility.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet - make sure you have your W-2s or pay stubs from the last 18 months ready when you file. Washington ESD will need to verify your earnings history to calculate your benefit amount, and having those documents handy will speed up the process. Also, if you have any separation paperwork from your employer (layoff notice, etc.), keep that available too in case they need it during the review process.