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The system has definitely changed over the years. It used to be more restrictive but now it seems more focused on helping people who are actively looking for work.
Bottom line: work when you can, claim when you need to, keep good records, and don't worry about some arbitrary limit on claims. The system is there to help people transition between jobs.
Last tip - keep really good records of everything. Your job search activities, any contact with Washington ESD, your work history, everything. If there are ever any questions about your claim, having documentation makes everything so much easier.
Good luck with your claim! The process can seem overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine of filing weekly claims and doing your job search activities, it becomes pretty straightforward. Hope everything works out for you.
Just make sure you file your claim as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. The benefit amount won't change based on when you file, but you can't get payments for weeks before you actually filed your claim.
One last thing - keep all your employment records handy in case there are any issues with your wage calculation. Pay stubs, tax forms, anything that shows your earnings. Washington ESD might need additional documentation if there are discrepancies.
Just wanted to add that when you do turn 18 and if you need to file, make sure you have all your employment records organized. Having your pay stubs and tax forms ready will make the process much smoother.
I remember being frustrated by this same rule when I was younger. But looking back, having that work experience on your record when you turn 18 is actually valuable - shows you have a strong work ethic.
Nia Harris
If you need to talk to Washington ESD about anything - benefit extensions, training programs, work search requirements - definitely try that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. I used it last month and it was a game changer. Actually got to talk to a human being without spending my whole day on hold.
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GalacticGuardian
•I'm definitely going to try that. I have several questions about my benefits that I need answered.
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GalaxyGazer
•Same here. The regular phone system is basically unusable with how busy they are.
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Mateo Sanchez
honestly the worst part was explaining to family members who kept asking when I was going to 'just take any job.' people who haven't been through it don't always understand that taking the wrong job can set you back even further
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GalacticGuardian
•Oh my god yes. I get so much pressure from family about this. It's frustrating.
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Aisha Mahmood
•Family pressure is the worst. They mean well but they don't get how the job market works now.
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