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My advice: file your weekly claims religiously, respond to any ESD requests immediately, and try not to stress too much about the timeline. Most people get their first payment within 2-3 weeks assuming no complications.
Just wanted to mention that if anyone's still having trouble reaching Washington ESD agents, that Claimyr service has been a lifesaver for me multiple times. Worth checking out their demo video to see how simple it is.
Hope your first payment comes through smoothly! The waiting is always the hardest part but Washington ESD is generally pretty reliable with the payment timing once everything's set up properly.
Just went through this process myself. Filed a new claim after my benefit year ended, but I had worked part-time during my previous claim. The new weekly benefit amount was calculated based on those wages, so it was lower than my original claim. Something to keep in mind.
The bottom line is that you CAN refile after benefits run out, but only if you meet the wage requirements for a new claim. If you don't have sufficient wages from covered employment during your benefit year, you'll need to look at other options or find work to build up eligibility for a future claim.
This has been really helpful everyone. Sounds like I need to wait until my benefit year ends next month, then see if I have enough wages to qualify for a new claim. If not, I'll look into training programs and other assistance.
Just want to add that if you're getting partial unemployment because you're working reduced hours, the calculation gets more complicated. They use a different formula that accounts for your part-time earnings each week.
Thanks everyone for all the explanations! I think I understand now that my $437 is probably correct based on the two highest quarters formula. I'll still try to get through to Washington ESD to confirm, but at least I'm not panicking about it being wrong anymore.
If you do end up needing to call Washington ESD, definitely consider using Claimyr to get through faster. Saved me hours of frustration.
Jacinda Yu
for those still reading this - the WorkSource requirement is still in effect even if you own a business. you have to register and do the career workshops and stuff. just fyi
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Landon Flounder
•Really? Even if you're self-employed?
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Jacinda Yu
•yeah if youre collecting unemployment benefits you have to do all the same requirements as everyone else
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PaulineW
Thanks everyone for all the help and advice! This has been one of the most useful forum discussions I've ever been part of. Hope it helps others in similar situations. The main takeaways seem to be: 1) You can potentially qualify but it's complicated 2) Be completely honest about everything 3) Document all income and activities 4) Be prepared for a lengthy review process 5) You still have all the same job search requirements as other claimants.
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Charity Cohan
•And don't forget - if you need to talk to Washington ESD during the process, Claimyr can save you hours of phone tag. Worth checking out if you're struggling to get through.
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PaulineW
•Absolutely. Getting through to an actual person when you have questions is half the battle with Washington ESD.
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