I'm so sorry you're going through this - 6 weeks is absolutely unacceptable for a basic unemployment claim. From what I've seen in this thread and my own experience, Washington ESD's phone system is completely overwhelmed and broken. A few practical suggestions: 1) Document everything - keep a log of every call attempt with dates and times, 2) Try calling the employer services line instead of the claimant line - sometimes you can get transferred to someone who can help, 3) File a complaint with the Washington State Auditor's office about the delays, and 4) Based on the positive feedback here, the Claimyr service seems worth trying if you can afford it. Don't let them wear you down - you've earned these benefits and deserve to receive them in a reasonable timeframe. Keep us posted on what works!

I went through almost the exact same thing last year - filed in February and didn't see a penny until May. What finally worked for me was contacting my state representative's office. I was skeptical at first but their constituent services staff actually reached out to Washington ESD on my behalf and got my case escalated. Turns out my claim had been flagged for some minor discrepancy in my work history that could have been cleared up in 5 minutes if anyone had bothered to look at it. The rep's office got me a direct callback from an ESD supervisor within 3 days, and my benefits started flowing the following week with full back pay. It's worth a shot - your tax dollars pay their salaries, so don't feel bad about asking for help when the system is clearly failing you.

you got this! the hardest part is just starting. once you get the hang of the weekly claims it becomes routine

Hey Mohammed! I went through this exact same process last year when I got laid off from my retail job. The stress is totally understandable, but you've got this! Here's what I wish I had known: First, go to esd.wa.gov and create your SecureAccess Washington account - you'll need your SSN, driver's license, and employment history for the past 18 months. The application takes about 45 minutes if you have everything ready. Most importantly, apply TODAY if possible because your benefit year starts when you file, not when you lost your job. There's a mandatory waiting week anyway, so don't delay. Keep detailed records of everything you submit and screenshot your confirmation page. You'll then need to file weekly claims every single week to actually get paid, even while your initial claim is processing. The job search requirements start right away - 3 activities per week and register with WorkSourceWA. I know it seems overwhelming but thousands of people do this successfully every week. Take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to come back here with questions!

I had almost this EXACT situation in January!!! Former employer wanted me back at WAY lower pay for "just a few weeks" which turned into them pressuring me to stay permanently at that lower rate. I refused and reported everything to ESD. They tried to challenge my unemployment but I won because I had documentation of the original terms they offered me. GET IT IN WRITING!!!

Just wanted to add my experience from a similar situation last fall. I was a project coordinator making $32/hr, got laid off, then my old company offered me data entry work at $15/hr "to help out during busy season." I was nervous about refusing but my case worker at WorkSource actually advised me to decline it since it was such a massive step down from my skill level and previous wage. The key thing that helped me was being able to show ESD that I was actively pursuing work at my appropriate level - I had applications out, interviews scheduled, etc. They want to see you're making genuine efforts to find suitable employment, not just coasting on benefits. Document your job search activities really well and you should be fine refusing this low offer. Also agree with everyone saying get it in writing! When I had to report my refusal, having the email with their exact offer details made the whole process much smoother.

Update us on how it goes! I'm sure others will have the same question in the future.

Congratulations on landing the new job! Based on what everyone's shared here, it sounds like you have a solid plan. Just to summarize the key points: file your final weekly claim, report your new employment on that claim, and then you're all set. Washington ESD will automatically close your claim after a few weeks of inactivity. Keep documentation of your last filing date and job start date just in case. The system is pretty straightforward once you know the right steps. Good luck with your new position!

To the person who suggested Claimyr - did that actually work? I'm in a similar situation (different issue, but also can't get through) and I'm desperate to talk to an actual human at ESD.

I'm dealing with something similar right now - ESD seems to have a real problem with clearing old data from their system. Based on what everyone's shared here, it sounds like you should definitely file that appeal ASAP (don't miss the 30-day deadline!) but also try multiple approaches at once. The profile update you mentioned finding is huge - that might actually be the quickest fix. I'd also suggest trying that Claimyr service if the regular phone lines keep failing you. The key thing seems to be getting documentation of everything and not relying on just one solution. Keep filing your weekly claims too while this gets sorted out. This system is so broken but at least it sounds like these issues do get resolved eventually!