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Don't forget that if you find work before your benefits run out, you can sometimes restart your claim later if you get laid off again within the benefit year, as long as you haven't exhausted all your weeks.
The whole system is confusing but once you get your determination letter it'll spell everything out clearly. Mine showed exactly how many weeks I qualified for and my weekly benefit amount. Just keep filing your weekly claims on time while you wait for that paperwork.
Just remember that Washington ESD processes claims Monday through Friday, so if you file your weekly claim on a weekend, it won't be processed until Monday.
The amounts they pay really haven't kept up with inflation. I collected unemployment in 2019 and the max was $790 per week, now it's $999 but everything costs way more.
My theory is that they make it deliberately difficult to discourage people from filing claims. The harder it is, the fewer people will stick with it through the whole process.
The lack of transparency is what gets me. They'll put a hold on your claim but won't tell you specifically what they need or how long it will take. Just 'under review' forever.
For what it's worth, 26 weeks is actually pretty standard. Most states offer between 12-26 weeks, so Washington is on the higher end. Could be worse.
Bottom line: 26 weeks maximum in Washington, no exceptions unless there's a federal extension program (which there isn't right now). Use the time wisely to find good work, meet all the job search requirements, and file your weekly claims on time. Good luck everyone!
Ravi Sharma
Last question - is there any benefit to voluntarily paying into unemployment insurance as a business owner even if you don't have employees?
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Miguel Silva
•In Washington, business owners can't typically elect coverage for themselves under the standard unemployment insurance program. It's designed for employers to cover their employees.
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Ravi Sharma
•That's what I figured, but thought I'd ask. Thanks!
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NebulaNomad
This whole thread has been incredibly helpful - saved me from a lot of confusion and probably some unnecessary stress about compliance. Thanks to everyone who shared their knowledge!
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StarSailor
•Same here! Glad I asked the question.
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Dmitry Ivanov
•Happy to help! Good luck with your business ventures, everyone.
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