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If you need to talk to someone at ESD and can't get through on the phone, definitely try Claimyr. I wish I had known about it when I was struggling to reach them about my claim status.
One last tip - set up direct deposit when you file. Getting a check in the mail takes forever and can get lost. Direct deposit is much faster and more reliable.
For what it's worth, I had to use Claimyr twice during my unemployment period - once when I couldn't get through about my adjudication status, and once when I had questions about my overpayment notice. Both times they helped me connect with someone who could actually help resolve my issues instead of just getting the runaround.
Bottom line - file your claim as soon as possible, keep filing weekly claims, do your job search requirements, and respond to any requests from Washington ESD promptly. That's the formula for getting your benefits without major delays. Good luck!
Last thought - if your friend does get approved, they should set aside money for taxes. UI benefits are taxable income and it's easy to forget that when you're struggling financially.
Just double-checked my records - first $600 FPUC payment was indeed April 4, 2020 week, last was July 25, 2020 week. Exactly 16 weeks total. Then nothing until LWA started up briefly in late summer.
The gap between the original $600 FPUC ending and LWA starting was rough. People went from getting the extra help to nothing for several weeks while Congress debated what to do next.
Javier Torres
Just wanted to add that if you're denied initially, you can always appeal the decision. Sometimes they make mistakes or don't have complete information about your work history.
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Emma Davis
•How long do you have to appeal if they deny you?
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Javier Torres
•I believe it's 30 days from the date of the determination notice, but double-check that timeline when you get your decision.
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CosmicCaptain
My advice is to apply as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. Even if there are issues with your eligibility, the sooner you file, the sooner they can be resolved. Benefits are typically paid from the date you first file, not from when your claim is approved.
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Malik Johnson
•This is important! I waited a few weeks to apply thinking I needed to get all my paperwork together first, and I missed out on those weeks of benefits.
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