Washington Unemployment
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Can you collect severance and unemployment benefits in Washington state?
I just got laid off from my job and they're giving me 8 weeks of severance pay. I'm wondering if I can still file for unemployment benefits with Washington ESD while receiving this severance? I've heard conflicting information about whether severance affects your UI eligibility. Does anyone know how this works?
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What is the most unemployment pays in Washington ESD benefits?
I'm trying to figure out what the maximum weekly benefit amount is for Washington state unemployment. My employer just laid off half our department and I need to know what to expect when I file my claim. I was making about $72,000 annually before this happened. Does anyone know what the highest weekly payment Washington ESD gives out? I've heard different numbers from people and want to make sure I understand what I might qualify for.
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Pro tip: file your claim on Sunday night or Monday morning if possible. The system is usually less busy then and you'll get processed faster. Also make sure you have all your employment history ready to go.
Good advice! I'll plan to file early in the week. What employment history do they need exactly?
They'll want employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation for typically the last 18 months. Having pay stubs or W2s handy helps too in case there are questions.
The whole system is set up to discourage people from filing. Maximum benefit sounds good until you realize how hard it is to actually get it and maintain it with all their requirements and phone system issues.
It's frustrating for sure, but the benefits are there if you can navigate the system. The phone situation is definitely the worst part.
That's why services like Claimyr exist - to help people get around the broken phone system when they need to talk to an actual person at Washington ESD.
What happens after you apply for unemployment with Washington ESD - confused about next steps
I submitted my initial unemployment application through the Washington ESD website last Thursday and I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do now. I got a confirmation number but haven't received any letters or emails yet. Do I need to file weekly claims right away or wait for approval? Also worried I might have messed something up on the application since this is my first time dealing with unemployment. How long does it usually take to hear back from Washington ESD?
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For the original poster - the key things to watch for after applying: 1) Check your SAW account daily, 2) Respond quickly to any requests for information, 3) Don't file weekly claims until you're told to, 4) Keep your contact info current, 5) Be patient but persistent if you don't hear anything after 10 business days.
This is exactly the kind of summary I needed. Thank you so much for all the detailed help everyone!
You're welcome! The system can be confusing but once you understand the process it gets easier.
Thanks everyone for all the advice! I feel much more prepared now and know what to expect. Will definitely keep checking my account daily and have all my documents ready just in case.
Good luck! Feel free to post updates or ask more questions if issues come up.
You'll be fine. The waiting is the hardest part but once things get moving it goes pretty smoothly.
Who gets unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about eligibility requirements
I'm really confused about who actually qualifies for unemployment benefits through Washington ESD. I was working part-time at a retail job for about 8 months before I got laid off last week. My coworker said I might not qualify because I wasn't full-time, but another friend said part-time workers can get UI too. I've never filed for unemployment before and don't know if I meet the requirements. Can someone explain who actually gets approved for benefits? I'm worried I'll waste time applying if I don't qualify.
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i think the most important thing is just to apply and see what happens. the worst case scenario is they say no and you're in the same position you're in now. but if you qualify, you could be getting benefits while you look for your next job
You're absolutely right. I'm going to apply today and stop overthinking it. Thanks everyone for all the helpful information!
Good luck with your application! Remember to keep detailed records of everything - your job search activities, any income you earn while collecting benefits, and all communications with Washington ESD. It makes everything easier if you need to provide documentation later.
Great advice! I'll start keeping track of everything from day one.
Smart approach! Having good records saved me a lot of headaches when I had to provide additional information during my claim review.
How long does it take to get accepted for unemployment with Washington ESD?
I just filed my initial claim last Tuesday and I'm wondering how long it typically takes to get approved? My account shows the claim is under review but doesn't give any timeframe. I've heard everything from 2 weeks to 2 months depending on the situation. I lost my job due to company downsizing so it should be straightforward, but I'm getting anxious about paying rent next month. Anyone know what the current processing times are like?
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Just want to add that even if your claim takes a while to get approved, you'll get backpay for all the weeks you were eligible and filed weekly claims. So don't worry about 'losing' those weeks during the waiting period.
That's reassuring to know. I've been filing weekly so hopefully those will all get paid out once approved.
yes thats how it worked for me. got a nice chunk of backpay when mine finally went through
Based on everything I've read here and my own experience, 2-3 weeks seems normal for straightforward layoff situations. Anything involving misconduct allegations, wage disputes, or complex work histories will take longer due to adjudication.
this thread has been super helpful. at least i know im not the only one dealing with delays
Good luck to everyone still waiting! The system isn't perfect but it does eventually work.
Danielle Mays
One thing to watch out for - make sure you understand if your severance is being paid as salary continuation or as a lump sum. Washington ESD treats these differently.
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Max Reyes
AuthorMine is weekly payments that match my old salary. I assume that's salary continuation?
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Danielle Mays
Sounds like it. That's usually easier to calculate against your UI benefits than a lump sum.
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Roger Romero
Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I feel much better about navigating this situation now. Going to file my claim this week and report the severance properly.
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Adrian Connor
You'll do fine. Just be honest about reporting everything and you should be good.
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Aisha Jackson
Feel free to ask if you run into any issues with the weekly claims process!
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