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Overall the system works but it's bureaucratic and slow. Just be patient, follow the rules, and keep detailed records of everything.
Been on unemployment 3 times in my career and each time I learn something new about how confusing their rules are. But yeah, the basics are: file initial claim, file weekly claims, do job searches, report any work/earnings, be patient.
The whole base period thing is confusing but it's actually designed to give you the best possible benefit amount by using your highest earning quarter. Could be worse - some states use different formulas that result in lower payments.
Just wanted to add that if you worked for multiple employers during your base period, Washington ESD will combine all those wages when calculating your benefits. So don't worry if you switched jobs - they'll use the total from all employers.
Just wanted to update everyone - I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and finally got through to Washington ESD. Turns out my claim was held up because of a simple address verification issue. Agent fixed it in 5 minutes and said my payment should process this week. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person!
To summarize for the original poster: expect 2-4 weeks from filing to first payment, keep filing weekly claims even while waiting, check your SecureAccess account regularly for updates, and consider using a service like Claimyr if you need to speak with an agent about your specific situation. The waiting is stressful but most claims do get processed eventually.
Just remember that even if you qualify for $700+ per week, you still need to be actively looking for work. Don't treat unemployment as a vacation because they do check up on your job search activities.
Good luck with your claim! The whole process can be stressful but once you get through the initial setup, the weekly claims are pretty routine. Just make sure to file every week even if you haven't heard about your benefit amount yet.
Anthony Young
Been following this thread because I'm in similar situation with a shoulder injury. Really helpful information from everyone. This forum is better than trying to get info from Washington ESD directly.
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Hannah Flores
•Glad it helped you too. It's nice to know we're not alone in dealing with these issues.
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The Boss
•That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - sometimes you just need to talk to a real person who can give you straight answers about your specific situation.
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Charlotte White
Update us when you get resolution on this! Always curious to hear how these cases turn out.
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Hannah Flores
•Will do. Hopefully I won't need to use any of this advice but at least I'm prepared now.
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