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Just want to add that if you get denied for any reason, you can appeal the decision. Don't just accept a denial if you think you really qualify. The appeal process exists for a reason.
One last tip - if you do get approved, make sure you understand what happens if you turn down a job offer. Washington ESD can deny your benefits if you refuse suitable work without good cause.
It depends on how long you've been unemployed and your previous experience. Generally in the first few weeks they expect you to look for similar work, but after a while you might need to consider other types of jobs too.
Has anyone had experience with appealing an initial denial? I'm curious about that process in case things don't go smoothly the first time around.
Yes, the appeal process exists for exactly these kinds of situations. You typically have 30 days from the denial notice to file an appeal, and you can present additional evidence or clarification about your work history.
Just remember that filing for unemployment isn't something to be embarrassed about - you paid into the system through your payroll taxes and you're entitled to use it when you need it. Your work history sounds like it should qualify you for benefits.
The weekly claims are pretty straightforward once you get used to them. You just answer questions about any work you did, money you earned, and your job search activities for that week.
One last tip - keep detailed records of everything. Save all your correspondence with Washington ESD, keep track of your job search activities, and document any work you do while collecting benefits. It'll save you headaches if any questions come up later.
Update: I just filed my claim online! Took about 30 minutes once I got through. Wish I'd done this two weeks ago but at least it's done now. Thanks everyone for pushing me to act fast.
Awesome! You'll probably get a determination letter in the mail within a week or two. Don't panic if your claim goes into adjudication - it's pretty normal.
Glad you got it filed! If you run into any issues down the road, remember that Claimyr option for getting through to Washington ESD phone support.
For anyone else reading this later: the rule is you CAN file up to a year after becoming unemployed, but you SHOULD file within the first week. Don't be like OP and lose weeks of benefits by waiting.
Jasmine Hancock
keep track of any severance pay or vacation payout from your employer. you'll need to report it and it might affect when your benefits start
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Taylor To
•I got a small severance. Does that delay everything?
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Jasmine Hancock
•it might delay your first payment depending on how much it was. the system will calculate it automatically when you report it
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Cole Roush
Good luck with your claim! The process seems overwhelming at first but it's really not that bad once you get started. Most people get through it without major problems.
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Taylor To
•Thanks! Feeling much better about it after all this advice.
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