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Just want to add that if you don't have enough work history in Washington, you might be able to combine wages from other states if you worked there recently. It's called interstate claims.
The whole system seems designed to make it as hard as possible to get benefits. Between the earnings requirements, the job search requirements, the weekly claims, and trying to actually reach someone at Washington ESD when you have questions - it's exhausting.
That's why services like Claimyr are so helpful. Sometimes you just need to talk to an actual person who can look at your specific situation instead of trying to figure it out from the website.
I've filed 5 times over my career due to various layoffs in the tech industry. Never been an issue. The key is always being honest and meeting the work requirements between claims.
One last thing - if you're planning to file, do it online if possible. The phone system is a nightmare but the website usually works fine for straightforward claims.
Online filing is great until you hit a snag and need to talk to someone. That's when services like Claimyr become really valuable for getting through to an actual person.
For anyone dealing with unemployment issues in Washington, just remember that Washington ESD makes the final decision on benefit eligibility, not your former employer. Even if your employer contests your claim, you can still win if you have a valid case.
This is important. I've seen people give up on filing because their employer said they wouldn't be eligible, but that's not the employer's call to make.
Right. And if you do need to appeal or have questions about your claim, services like Claimyr can help you actually get through to Washington ESD agents who can give you real answers about your specific situation.
The bottom line is yes, employers do pay for unemployment benefits through their quarterly tax payments to Washington ESD. It's not a direct payment to individual employees, but companies definitely bear the cost of the unemployment insurance system. The more claims filed against a company, the more they'll pay in future taxes.
Had a similar experience with getting fired and needing to reach Washington ESD for clarification. Used Claimyr to actually get through to an agent and they were super helpful explaining how misconduct determinations work. Really put my mind at ease about the whole process.
Bottom line - being fired doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits in Washington. File your claim, be honest about the circumstances, and let the process work. Most people in your situation get approved.
Paolo Conti
Been there with the unsafe working conditions appeal. Mine took 14 weeks but I won and got full back pay. The key is having documentation that you tried to get the employer to fix the safety issues before you quit. Sounds like you have that covered.
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Zoe Christodoulou
•Thanks for the encouragement! Did you have a lawyer or represent yourself?
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Paolo Conti
•Represented myself. The hearing officer was fair and asked good questions. Having photos and witness statements really made the difference.
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Amina Sow
The waiting is brutal but try to stay positive. I know that sounds cliche but stress doesn't make it go faster. Focus on your job search and preparing for the hearing. You got this!
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Zoe Christodoulou
•Thank you for the positive words. Some days are definitely harder than others but I know I was right to leave that unsafe job.
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GalaxyGazer
•Absolutely right to prioritize your safety. No job is worth getting injured over.
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