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Just want to mention that if you do end up needing to contact Washington ESD about this, Claimyr has been a lifesaver for actually getting through their phone system. I tried calling for literally weeks before finding that service. The demo video shows exactly how it works if you're curious.
UPDATE: I ended up talking to HR today and filing a formal complaint. They seemed to take it seriously and said they'd investigate within the next week. Hoping this leads somewhere positive but at least now I have documentation of trying to resolve it internally first.
This thread should be pinned or something. Really useful info that I bet a lot of people need to know.
I had the same question and tried using that Claimyr service someone mentioned. It actually worked! Got through to Washington ESD in about 20 minutes and they confirmed exactly how many weeks I had left. Definitely worth it if you can't find the info online.
Good to hear another success story with that service. Might be worth trying if I have other questions down the road.
Ok I'm convinced. Going to check out that Claimyr thing for my own Washington ESD issues.
The 26 weeks goes by faster than you think. I remember thinking I had plenty of time at the beginning, but suddenly I was at week 20 and panicking. Start job searching seriously from day one, not week 20 like I did.
Also remember that your benefit year is different from your benefit exhaustion date. Even if you use up all 26 weeks of benefits, your benefit year continues for the full 52 weeks. This matters if you want to reopen your claim later.
If you're really struggling financially during the waiting week, look into local food banks and emergency assistance programs. Some communities have resources specifically for people waiting for unemployment benefits to kick in.
Bottom line: Yes, Washington state still requires a waiting week for unemployment benefits in 2023. File as soon as possible after job loss, complete all weekly requirements including during the waiting week, and be prepared for at least 2-3 weeks before receiving your first payment.
Niko Ramsey
I thought there was something about training extensions? Like if you're in an approved training program you can get extra weeks?
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Anna Kerber
•There are some training programs that can extend benefits, but they're limited and you have to be approved before your regular benefits exhaust. Check with WorkSource about approved training programs.
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Niko Ramsey
•Thanks, I'll look into that. Every extra week helps when you're job searching.
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Sayid Hassan
Bottom line - plan for 26 weeks maximum and use every single week productively. Don't assume there will be extensions or additional programs. The safety net has gotten thinner over the years.
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Scarlett Forster
•You're right. I need to start treating this like a 6-month sprint, not a marathon.
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