(1)
How do I apply for benefits? (a) You may apply for benefits by:
(i) Calling the unemployment claims telecenter listed in your local telephone directory; or
(ii) Using the department's internet web site. However, you must apply by telephone if you worked in any state other than Washington during the previous two years, or you were off work for 13 or more consecutive weeks because of injury or illness.
(b) If you have a physical or sensory disability, or are in unusual circumstances that makes filing by telephone or internet difficult, the commissioner may authorize other methods of applying for benefits.
(2)
When can I apply? (a) You may apply by telephone at any time between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) Monday through Friday (excluding state holidays), even if you are working. To control workload, the department may assign certain days of the week on which you may file your claim by telephone.
(b) You may apply on the internet at any time.
(3)
When is my claim effective? Your claim is effective on the Sunday of the week in which you file it.
(4)
What information am I required to provide? The minimum information needed to process your application is your:
(a) Legal name; and
(b) Social Security account number.
You should also be prepared to provide the names, addresses, dates worked, and reasons for job separation for all of your employers during the past two years. Other information may be requested in individual circumstances.
(5)
Will I receive benefits immediately? The first week you are eligible for benefits is your waiting week. You will not be paid for this week. However, you must file a claim for this week before we can pay you any benefits for future weeks.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 50.12.010 and 50.12.040. 07-22-055, § 192-110-005, filed 11/1/07, effective 12/2/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 50.20.010 and 50.12.040. 99-08-073, § 192-110-005, filed 4/5/99, effective 5/6/99.]