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honestly the hardest part was just getting started. once you file that first claim and get into the routine it's not too bad
Based on everything you've described, you should definitely qualify for partial unemployment benefits. 8 months of work history should meet the earnings requirement, and hour reduction due to lack of work (not your fault) makes you eligible. I'd recommend filing your initial claim online this week.
Final thought - you losing your income is a much bigger financial hardship than your employer's unemployment taxes going up slightly. Don't sacrifice your financial security for their bottom line.
Also worth mentioning - if your claim does get denied for any reason, you have the right to appeal within 30 days. Don't panic if you get a denial letter, just follow the appeal process if you think it's wrong.
Bottom line - 2-3 weeks is normal, up to 4-6 weeks if there are complications. Keep filing weekly, check your account regularly, and don't stress too much unless you hit the 4-week mark with no communication.
The waiting week is gone now which is nice. You used to have to wait a week before benefits started but they eliminated that. So you can get paid for your first week of unemployment.
Last thing - if you have questions about your specific situation, the ESD website has a lot of good information. Start there before trying to call. But if you do need to talk to someone and can't get through, that Claimyr service people mentioned actually works.
Sadie Benitez
Don't overthink it! Thousands of people file for unemployment without termination letters every week. Washington ESD's process is designed to work with or without formal documentation. Just be honest and thorough in your application.
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Drew Hathaway
•That's what forums are for - getting reassurance when you're worried about something new!
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Atticus Domingo
•Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm going to file my claim tomorrow morning and stop worrying about the paperwork.
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Laila Prince
Update us on how it goes! Always helpful to hear how others' claims process, especially for situations like yours without formal termination documentation.
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Atticus Domingo
•Will do! I'll post back once I hear something from Washington ESD.
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Isabel Vega
•Yes please update! I might be in a similar situation soon and would love to know how it works out.
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