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For what it's worth, the waiting week isn't unique to Washington. Most states have it, though some did eliminate it permanently after COVID. We're not the only ones dealing with this frustration.
The most important thing is to keep filing your weekly claims even during the waiting week. I know someone who stopped filing because they thought there was no point if they weren't getting paid, and it messed up their whole claim.
Hang in there! I know the waiting is stressful but 10 days really isn't that long in Washington ESD time. You should hear something soon.
One more thing - if you have any issues with your claim or need to make changes, don't wait. Contact them as soon as possible because delays can affect your benefits.
Exactly why I used Claimyr when I had questions - much faster than trying to get through on my own.
Remember that your weekly benefit amount is based on your highest earning quarter in the base period, not your most recent job. So if you made more money at a previous job, that could actually increase your benefit amount.
Final piece of advice - be patient but persistent. The system is overloaded and things take time, but don't let issues slide hoping they'll resolve themselves. If something seems wrong with your claim, address it quickly. I used Claimyr twice last year when I couldn't get through the regular phone lines and it saved me weeks of delays.
The first payment is always nerve-wracking because you don't know what to expect. Once you get into the rhythm it becomes predictable. Just hang in there and it should come through soon.
Based on what you described, it sounds like everything is processing normally. First payments often take 5-7 business days. If you don't see it by Friday, then I'd start making calls to find out what's going on.
Logan Stewart
Also heads up - if you worked in multiple states recently, you might need to file an interstate claim. This can complicate things and take longer to process. Washington ESD will help determine which state you should file in based on where you worked and earned wages.
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Evelyn Rivera
•I only worked in Washington so I should be good there.
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Mikayla Brown
Remember that your waiting week is built into the system now - you won't get paid for your first eligible week. This used to be separate but they changed it a few years ago. So don't panic if your first payment seems delayed.
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Evelyn Rivera
•So I'll miss a week of payments no matter what?
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Mikayla Brown
•Right, the first week is unpaid but it's automatic now, not something you have to serve separately.
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