One last thought - if you do end up getting traditional employment, consider keeping some self-employment on the side if possible. That way you have multiple income streams and aren't as vulnerable to layoffs.

Just want to add that some self-employed folks might be eligible for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) or similar federal programs if they're still active. Also, if you've done any contract work where the company treated you as an employee and withheld taxes (even incorrectly), that could potentially count toward your eligibility. The rules can be more nuanced than they appear on the surface, so definitely worth having Washington ESD review your specific situation even if it seems hopeless at first glance.

UPDATE: My payment just hit my Chase account this morning! It was exactly 2 business days after it showed 'paid' on the ESD website. Thanks everyone for your help and reassurance!

Congrats on getting your payment! This thread is super helpful for anyone else wondering about Chase timing. I'm in a similar situation - just got approved and waiting for my first payment. It's reassuring to see that the 2 business day pattern seems pretty consistent with Chase. The stress of waiting for that first payment when bills are due is real!

Update: I finally got through to ESD this morning! For anyone with the same issue - YES, you have to speak to a real person to file missed weeks. The agent was actually really nice and helped me file for the two weeks I missed. She said this is super common and as long as it hasn't been more than 30 days since the week ended, they can usually help. Thanks everyone for your advice and support!

So glad to hear you got it sorted out! This is such a common issue and your post will definitely help others who run into the same problem. The 30-day rule is really important for people to know - it gives you some breathing room if life gets in the way of filing. Thanks for updating us with the resolution!

For anyone still reading this thread, remember that you have rights in this process. ESD has to follow due process procedures and you can request hearings if you disagree with their determinations. Don't just accept everything at face value.

I'm dealing with a similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful. One thing I want to add is that if you do decide to pursue a hardship waiver, make sure you're completely honest about your financial situation. I tried to downplay some expenses thinking it would look better, but the case worker told me they need the full picture to properly evaluate hardship. Also, keep copies of everything you submit - I had to resend documents twice because they claimed they never received them. The whole process is frustrating but persistence pays off.

im gonna try that service too, this is getting ridiculous. did u at least get any info on the backpay for all those weeks? will they pay interest for making us wait so long? they should!

As someone who just went through this nightmare myself, I feel your pain! My claim took 9 weeks total - turns out they were waiting for wage verification from an employer who had closed down. What finally helped was keeping a detailed log of every call attempt, screenshot of my account status, and all the weekly claims I filed. When I eventually got through (also used that Claimyr service after seeing it mentioned here), having all that documentation ready made the conversation much more productive. The agent could see exactly what had been happening and fast-tracked my case. Don't give up - the system is broken but your money will come eventually if you keep pushing!