


Ask the community...
For what it's worth, I filed my unemployment claim about 6 hours after getting laid off and everything went smoothly. The online system asks you for your last day of work, so they know exactly when your employment ended. No need to overthink the timing.
Last thing I'll add - when you do file, make sure you understand the weekly claim requirements. You'll need to file every week even during that waiting week, and you'll need to report any work or income. Don't skip weeks thinking you'll start later.
The Washington ESD website has a benefit calculator tool but honestly it never worked right for me. Always gave me error messages when I tried to use it. Probably easier to just do the math yourself with that 3.85% formula someone mentioned earlier.
Yeah their website tools are pretty hit or miss. I've had better luck just calling when I need specific information, though getting through can be a challenge.
That's when services like Claimyr come in handy. I used them twice when I couldn't get through on my own and it was worth it to actually talk to someone instead of guessing.
Don't forget you'll also need to do work search activities to keep getting benefits. I think it's 3 job contacts per week minimum, and you have to keep a log of your activities.
Online applications definitely count! You just need to keep track of the employer name, date, position applied for, and method of contact. Pretty straightforward.
I just want to make sure I understand - the weekly benefit amount stays the same for your entire claim period, right? It doesn't change based on how long you've been collecting?
Thanks everyone for all the info! This has been way more helpful than trying to decipher the Washington ESD website.
Make sure you also understand the waiting week requirement. Even if you qualify, there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits start.
Pro tip: gather all your employment documentation before you start the application. W2s, pay stubs, anything showing your work history and wages. Makes the process much smoother.
Oliver Zimmermann
Final thought - if you do end up using Claimyr or any service to reach Washington ESD, make sure you understand what information they need. But yeah, getting through to an actual person can make a huge difference in understanding your claim status.
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Liam Fitzgerald
•Will do. Really appreciate everyone's help on this thread!
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Natasha Volkova
Hope everything works out OP. Keep us updated on how it goes with your lender and Washington ESD claim!
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Liam Fitzgerald
•Thanks! I'll post an update once I get through this mess.
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NebulaNinja
•Good luck with everything. The hardship program should give you the breathing room you need.
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