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Since you just filed, keep checking your account in a few days for your monetary determination. That will show your weekly benefit amount and how many weeks you're eligible for. Standard benefit period is 26 weeks unless there are extended benefits available.
This whole thread was super helpful. I've been putting off filing because I thought it would be too complicated but it sounds manageable. Going to do mine this weekend.
Washington ESD also has walk-in centers in some areas where you can get help in person, though they're not as common as they used to be. Might be worth checking if there's one near you for complex questions.
Bottom line - you need substantial work history in the right time period to qualify for Washington ESD benefits. The specific requirements can seem complicated but they're designed to ensure benefits go to people who have been working and paying into the system. Good luck with whatever happens with your temp job!
Just remembered - if you drove to previous jobs, bring your mileage records or transit passes. Sometimes they ask about your job search radius and transportation options.
Thanks everyone for all this information! I feel much better prepared now. I'll make sure to bring everything you've mentioned and hopefully get my claim resolved finally.
Thanks everyone for all this information. I feel much more confident about applying for unemployment now. It sounds like as long as I'm honest about my situation and capabilities, I should be okay applying for both.
Just to add one more perspective - I know someone who didn't apply for unemployment while waiting for disability and really struggled financially. If you qualify for unemployment, you should apply. Don't suffer unnecessarily while waiting for disability approval.
Katherine Ziminski
Just remember to keep track of your job search activities too. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week and they do audit people randomly.
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Isaac Wright
•What counts as a job search activity?
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Katherine Ziminski
•Applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, informational interviews. Keep detailed records of everything you do.
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KhalilStar
One more plug for Claimyr if you run into any issues or questions about your benefits. Really saved me a lot of frustration when I had questions about my claim status.
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Daniel Price
•I'm definitely bookmarking that site. The Washington ESD phone system is absolutely terrible.
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