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If you do run into problems reaching Washington ESD by phone, I had success with that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Took me 3 weeks of trying the regular way before I found them. Really helped when I needed to resolve an issue with my weekly claim certification.
It's been particularly bad lately. High call volume and limited staffing. That's why services like Claimyr have become popular - they know the best times and methods to get through.
I tried Claimyr too after seeing it recommended here. Worked for me when I couldn't get answers about my job search requirements.
Last thing - keep copies of everything you submit to Washington ESD. Email confirmations, screenshots of your weekly claims, any correspondence. If there are any issues later, you'll want that paper trail.
For anyone still struggling to get through to Washington ESD, I really can't recommend Claimyr enough. I was skeptical at first but it saved me so much time and stress. Being able to actually talk to someone who could see my account and explain what was happening was worth every penny.
Bottom line OP - expect 3-6 weeks realistically, file your weekly claims religiously, respond to any requests immediately, and keep records of everything. The system works but it's slow and bureaucratic.
My advice as someone who's been through this - use your exhaustee status as motivation to really focus your job search. Sometimes having that deadline pressure helps you take opportunities you might have passed on before.
One last thing - if you do find temporary or part-time work as an exhaustee, keep track of those wages. They count toward your next base period if you need to file another claim later. Every bit of work income helps your future eligibility.
Bottom line: work the hours you want/need, report all earnings honestly, and stay available for full-time work. Washington state is pretty reasonable about letting people work part-time while collecting as long as you follow the rules.
One last tip - if your part-time job leads to a full-time offer, make sure you understand how that affects your remaining unemployment benefits. You might be able to get some additional assistance for things like work clothes or transportation through WorkSource.
Ali Anderson
remember to apply online through the washington esd website, its faster than trying to do it over the phone
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Mateo Warren
•Yeah I was planning to do it online. The website seems pretty straightforward for filing the initial claim.
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Zadie Patel
The most important thing is just to file your claim and let Washington ESD make the determination. From what you've described, you almost certainly qualify, and the worst thing that can happen is they say no - but at least you'll know for sure and won't miss out on benefits you're entitled to.
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Mateo Warren
•You're absolutely right. I was overthinking it. Going to file this week for sure.
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A Man D Mortal
•Exactly! Don't let analysis paralysis cost you money you're entitled to.
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