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For what it's worth, I think 2-3 weeks is pretty typical right now. Washington ESD seems to be processing claims at a reasonable pace compared to a couple years ago when everything was backed up.
Hope you hear back soon! The waiting is definitely the hardest part, but once you get approved it's such a relief. Just keep filing those weekly claims and stay on top of your job search requirements.
I had three ineligible weeks in a row last year and it turned out my former employer had contested my claim and ESD was investigating. They never told me about the investigation until I finally got through to someone on the phone. Definitely try to speak with an agent ASAP.
Update: I ended up using Claimyr after seeing it mentioned here and finally got through to ESD. Turns out my ineligible week was because I reported job search activities that weren't specific enough. The agent helped me understand exactly what they need and fixed the week. Definitely worth it if you're stuck trying to reach them the regular way.
Thanks everyone for all the advice. This is way more complicated than I expected but at least now I know what questions to ask when I contact Washington ESD.
And seriously consider using Claimyr if you can't get through to them. It really does work and will save you hours of frustration.
The average seems to be about 2-3 weeks for most people I know, but there's a lot of variation. Keep filing your weekly claims and try to be patient. I know that's easier said than done when money's tight.
whatever you do dont stop filing the weekly claims even if it feels pointless. i made that mistake and lost out on 2 weeks of benefits when i finally got approved
Giovanni Mancini
Just want to add that if you exhaust your regular UI benefits, you might be eligible for other assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid while you continue job searching. Don't suffer in silence.
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Fatima Al-Suwaidi
•This is really important advice. The benefits don't just disappear at week 26 - there are other safety nets available.
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StarStrider
•Thank you, that's good to know. Hopefully I won't need to worry about that but it's reassuring to know there are other options.
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Dylan Cooper
OP, since you mentioned you worked 8 years at your previous job, you should definitely qualify for the full 26 weeks assuming you meet the wage requirements. Your long work history will work in your favor.
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StarStrider
•That's a relief to hear. I was making decent wages so hopefully that won't be an issue.
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Sofia Morales
•With 8 years of steady employment, you should have no problems qualifying. The hard part will be the job search in your field.
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