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One more thing - make sure you're actively looking for work and keeping a job search log. Washington ESD requires that even while your claim is being adjudicated. Don't want to get tripped up on the work search requirements.
One thing to watch out for - make sure you apply for DUA within the deadline. I think it's 30 days from when the disaster assistance period begins, but double-check that. Missing the deadline could disqualify you entirely.
Good point. I applied pretty quickly after the disaster declaration but I didn't realize there was a strict deadline. That could trip people up.
Just wanted to add that if you're self-employed or a contractor, DUA might be your only option since you probably don't qualify for regular UI. The benefit calculation works differently for self-employed folks though - they use your tax returns to figure out your weekly amount.
This is important info. A lot of gig workers and contractors don't realize they might qualify for disaster unemployment when they wouldn't normally get regular unemployment benefits.
The amount you get also depends on how many weeks you're eligible for. Higher earners might get more money per week but fewer total weeks of benefits.
Bottom line: expect roughly half your weekly wage up to $999/week, paid weekly after you file your weekly claim. File ASAP after losing your job because there's a waiting week and you want to get the process started.
And remember, if you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD, don't hesitate to use tools like Claimyr to get through their phone system.
The whole process stressed me out so much when I first did it. But honestly once you get your first payment it's such a relief. Hang in there!
Last bit of advice: keep checking your online account regularly after you apply. Sometimes Washington ESD needs additional information and they'll post notices there rather than calling or mailing you.
Mohamed Anderson
The weekly filing system actually makes sense when you think about it. Your employment situation can change week to week, so they need current information to determine if you're still eligible.
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Ellie Perry
•True, but the system could be more user-friendly. Half the questions are confusing and the website crashes sometimes.
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Mohamed Anderson
•I agree the technology could be better, but the concept is sound from a policy perspective.
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Landon Morgan
Make sure you keep records of everything - every job application, every weekly claim filing, all your documentation. If something goes wrong you'll need proof of what you did.
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Landon Morgan
•Company name, position applied for, date, method of application. I keep a simple spreadsheet with all this info.
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Teresa Boyd
•Screenshots of your online applications are good too, in case websites change or job postings disappear.
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