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If you end up filing, make sure to keep track of any severance pay or vacation payout. That can affect when your benefits start.
One last thing - you can collect unemployment for up to 26 weeks in Washington, but you need to be actively looking for work and able to work. Don't turn down suitable job offers or you could lose benefits.
Just want to add that if you do end up with issues on your claim - like disqualifications or overpayments - you have appeal rights. Don't just accept a decision if you think it's wrong. The appeal process exists for a reason.
Overall, Washington's unemployment system works pretty well if you don't run into any snags. The benefit amounts are decent and the online system is functional. Just be prepared for long wait times if you need to talk to someone on the phone.
Glad we could help! And remember, if you do run into phone issues, services like Claimyr can be a real lifesaver for getting through to Washington ESD.
this thread has been super helpful. i was totally wrong about how unemployment eligibility works. thought it was just about working for a certain amount of time but the wage thing makes more sense actually
Just to summarize for anyone else reading this: You need $3,400 in total wages during your base period (first 4 of last 5 completed calendar quarters) AND wages in at least 2 different quarters. It's not about how many months you worked, it's about meeting the monetary requirements. Hope that helps!
Just want to echo what others have said - don't let the complexity discourage you from applying if you need benefits. Washington ESD is there to help people who've lost their jobs through no fault of their own.
Last thought - if you do end up filing a claim and have any issues or questions during the process, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Whether that's calling Washington ESD directly, using a service like Claimyr to get through, or asking questions in forums like this.
Agreed. And if you do need to contact Washington ESD directly, that Claimyr service I mentioned really does work. Worth checking out at claimyr.com if you're having trouble getting through on your own.
Emma Davis
Let us know how it goes! I'm probably going to be in the same situation in a few months so your experience could help others too.
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Amina Toure
•Will definitely update if I learn anything useful about extensions or other programs.
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Omar Zaki
One more thing - if you do get any kind of extension, the job search requirements might be different or more strict. Just something to keep in mind.
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Amina Toure
•I hadn't thought about that. I'll ask about requirements if I get connected to Washington ESD about extensions.
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