Hope this works out for you! Keep us posted on how it goes.

I went through a similar situation last year where I delayed filing because I was receiving severance and thought I had to wait. Washington ESD approved my backdating request without much hassle once I explained that my employer's HR department had given me incorrect information about when I could file. The key is being very detailed in your explanation - write down exactly what you were told, by whom, and when. Also gather any emails or documentation from your employer about the severance package that might have contributed to the confusion. In my case, I was able to get about 5 weeks backdated, and the whole process took about a month from request to receiving the back payments. Good luck!

update us when you get your first payment! always curious how long it actually takes for different people

I'm in a similar situation - filed my claim 12 days ago and still waiting for my first payment. The uncertainty is really stressful, especially when you're trying to budget for basic expenses. It's somewhat reassuring to read that 2-4 weeks is normal, but when you're in the middle of it, every day feels like forever. I've been checking my account obsessively hoping to see some movement. Has anyone found any reliable way to track where your claim is in the verification process, or do we just have to wait it out?

wats adjudication mean anyways? my claim says that but nobodys telling me what it means

Hey everyone, I'm dealing with the exact same issue - been trying to reach ESD for 2 weeks now about my pending claim. After reading through all your experiences, I'm starting to think the phone system really is just overwhelmed rather than deliberately broken (though the end result is the same frustration for us). A few things I've learned from this thread that I'm going to try: 1. Calling right at 8 AM sharp tomorrow 2. If that doesn't work, I'll contact my state representative's office 3. Keep filing weekly claims even while pending (doing this already) @Aidan Percy - have you checked your online account to see if there are any notices or documents they're requesting? Sometimes they post requirements there that don't get communicated by phone. Also, identity verification seems to be a common holdup based on what others have shared. Thanks for starting this thread - it's helpful to know we're not alone in this mess, even if the situation still sucks.

Good luck with everything! Sounds like you've got a solid plan. File the claim, report the severance honestly, and keep your documentation handy. You should be all set.

I went through this exact same situation about 8 months ago - got laid off with a $12k lump sum severance. I was so nervous about messing up my unemployment claim, but it ended up being much smoother than I expected. Filed my claim the Monday after my last day of work, reported the severance amount when prompted, and my benefits started after the standard waiting week. Washington ESD didn't give me any hassle about it at all. The key really is that it's a lump sum payment rather than ongoing payments. Just make sure you're completely honest about the amount and date you received it. You've got this!

One last thing - if your circumstances change (like you move, change banks, etc.), make sure to update your information with Washington ESD right away. Don't wait until your next weekly claim to report changes.

Welcome to unemployment benefits, Anna! Everyone here has given you great advice. I just want to add that it's also important to keep copies of all your weekly claim confirmations. I save screenshots every time I file just in case there are ever any discrepancies. Also, if you're using a smartphone to file your claims, make sure you have a stable internet connection - I've had claims get messed up because my connection dropped in the middle of filing. The weekly routine does get easier once you get into the habit of it. Good luck with everything!