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Bottom line is 26 weeks maximum for regular UI, but that's only if you qualify for the full amount. Keep filing your weekly claims, do your job search, and don't turn down suitable work. The time goes by quick so use it wisely!
Oh and one more thing - if you do find work before your benefits run out, you might be able to reopen your claim later if you become unemployed again, as long as it's within your benefit year. So the unused weeks don't just disappear immediately.
That's good to know! So if I find a job after 10 weeks on unemployment, I could potentially use the remaining 16 weeks if I get laid off again soon?
Don't forget to keep looking for work and document everything. Washington ESD does check up on job search requirements and you don't want to get in trouble for not following the rules.
Welcome to the unemployment club! It's not fun but at least there's help available while you look for your next job. Good luck with your claim and your job search.
This thread has been really helpful. I'm in a similar situation and didn't know about some of these options. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences!
Final reminder for anyone in this situation - make sure you're still actively job searching and keeping your job search log updated. Washington ESD requires ongoing job search activities even when you're transitioning between benefit years.
If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD about this, I used Claimyr recently and it was a game changer. Instead of calling for hours, they helped me get connected to an agent in about 20 minutes. Worth checking out if you need to speak with someone directly.
I keep seeing Claimyr mentioned. Is it expensive to use?
Bottom line: report your severance on every weekly claim even if you think it won't matter. Washington ESD will make the determination about whether it affects your benefits. Being honest upfront protects you from overpayment issues later.
Diego Rojas
Make sure you have all your employment dates exactly right. Washington ESD will verify everything with your employers and any discrepancies can cause delays or issues with your claim.
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Connor O'Neill
•Good point, I'll double check my dates before submitting.
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Anastasia Sokolov
The whole unemployment system in Washington is just frustrating. But once you get through the initial hurdles, the weekly claims are pretty straightforward. Hang in there!
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Connor O'Neill
•Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice. I feel much more prepared now!
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StarSeeker
•Good luck! Remember to keep records of everything - screenshots, confirmation numbers, dates you called, etc. It all helps if you run into problems later.
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