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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.
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.
Final tip for everyone: once you know your weekly benefit amount, you can estimate how long your benefits will last by dividing your total benefit amount by your weekly amount. Usually works out to about 26 weeks if you don't work at all during that time.
Update: my card finally arrived today! Took exactly 12 business days from when my first payment was processed. Thanks everyone for the advice and support.
Final update: Got my card today! Took 13 business days total. Thanks to everyone who helped, especially those who suggested Claimyr when I needed to call Washington ESD for confirmation. This thread was super helpful!
Norman Fraser
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.
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Clay blendedgen
•How do they calculate the base period? Is it the last 12 months?
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Norman Fraser
•It's usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file in January 2025, they'd look at January-December 2024.
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Kendrick Webb
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.
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Clay blendedgen
•Thanks everyone for all the detailed help! I feel much more prepared to start the application process now.
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Kendrick Webb
•Good luck! The first time is always intimidating but once you get the hang of filing weekly claims it becomes routine.
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