


Ask the community...
One last thing - if you're thinking about going back to school while you're unemployed, there are some special programs that might let you receive benefits while training. Look into the Training Benefits program if that interests you.
Best of luck with everything! Filing for unemployment was one of the smartest things I did when I got laid off. It gave me the financial breathing room I needed to find a good job instead of just taking the first thing that came along.
I was skeptical about using outside services to contact Washington ESD but honestly after trying for weeks to get through myself, I finally tried Claimyr and it worked great. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get your questions answered properly.
One last tip - keep all your employment records, pay stubs, and any documentation about why you're unemployed. Washington ESD might ask for proof and it's better to have everything ready.
Hang in there OP. I've been following this thread and it sounds like you did everything right. Downsizing layoffs are usually approved without issues.
UPDATE: Just got approved! Took exactly 16 days from filing. Thanks everyone for the advice about filing weekly claims and job search logging. First payment should hit my account next week.
The whole system is set up to discourage people from applying. Half the time they deny claims hoping people won't appeal. Don't let them intimidate you - you have rights as someone whose school closed unexpectedly.
One last tip - when you do get through to Washington ESD, ask them to put notes in your file about the school closure and your eligibility. That way if other agents review your case later, they'll understand the situation without you having to explain it again.
Kaitlyn Otto
The earnings you can have while on unemployment are confusing too. Its not just about the weekly amount - there are different rules for different types of work and income.
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Axel Far
•yeah like what about pension payments? or severance pay? does that affect your weekly benefit amount?
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Kaitlyn Otto
•Severance usually delays when you can start collecting but doesn't reduce the weekly amount. Pension might be different - depends on the type and how it's structured.
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Jasmine Hernandez
I've been collecting for 8 weeks now at $743 per week. The payments have been consistent once I got past the initial adjudication period. Just stay on top of your weekly claims and job search requirements.
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Bethany Groves
•How long did your adjudication take? I'm worried mine is taking too long.
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Jasmine Hernandez
•About 3 weeks for me. If it's been longer than that, definitely try to reach an agent to check on the status. The system sometimes gets stuck.
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