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OP, if you do get through eventually, make sure to ask specifically about timelines for your type of review. Sometimes they can give you at least a rough estimate of how much longer it might take.
honestly the whole unemployment system needs to be rebuilt from scratch, this stuff shouldn't be so complicated
Just to add one more thing - make sure you're ready to actively look for work because that's a continuing requirement. Washington ESD takes the job search requirements seriously, so don't treat unemployment as a vacation. Document everything you do to find work.
One last tip - keep copies of everything you submit to Washington ESD and save all the confirmation numbers. If anything goes wrong with your claim later, having that documentation can save you a lot of hassle trying to prove what you submitted and when.
Once you file, make sure to keep filing your weekly claims every week even if you haven't received your first payment yet. Missing a weekly claim can interrupt your benefits.
If you run into any issues with your claim that you can't resolve online, you'll probably need to call Washington ESD. Fair warning - their phone lines are crazy busy most of the time.
This is where Claimyr really helps. I was spending hours trying to get through and then someone mentioned it here. Game changer for actually reaching a real person at Washington ESD.
One more thing - don't forget about job search waivers if you're only temporarily reduced. Sometimes Washington ESD will waive the job search requirement if your employer has a definite recall date. Worth asking about when you file.
Bottom line - file the claim. Worst case they say no, but based on what you described, you should qualify for partial benefits. Don't let reduced hours sink your finances when help is available.
Carmen Diaz
Just wanted to add - if you're eligible for regular UI, you can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks in most cases. During high unemployment periods, sometimes extended benefits are available, but right now it's the standard 26 weeks.
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Isabella Ferreira
•That should be enough time to find something new. Thanks for all the help everyone!
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Carmen Diaz
•You're welcome! Good luck with your job search. Don't forget to file that claim ASAP!
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Andre Laurent
Last thing - if you end up needing to contact Washington ESD and can't get through on the phone, Claimyr has been mentioned a few times in this thread and it really does work. I used it when I had issues with my claim and it saved me so much time and frustration. Much better than the alternative of calling hundreds of times.
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Isabella Ferreira
•I'll definitely keep that in mind if I run into any issues. Hopefully the online filing process goes smoothly!
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Andre Laurent
•It usually does for straightforward cases. But if you need to talk to someone, that service is there as a backup option.
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