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One last thing - if your employer contests your claim, don't panic. As long as you were laid off due to budget cuts and didn't do anything wrong, you should still be eligible. Just respond to any requests for information promptly.
Good luck with everything! Filing for unemployment is stressful but it's there to help you get through tough times. Just follow the process and you'll be okay.
One more thing - make sure you understand the difference between being fired and being laid off when it comes to unemployment eligibility. Both your employer's reporting and your own understanding matter for your claim.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I feel like I understand the Washington unemployment system much better now. Good to know I'm covered without having to pay extra taxes.
You're welcome! The system can be confusing but it's good that you asked. Better to understand it before you need it.
Definitely keep that Claimyr info handy just in case. Washington ESD can be really hard to reach when you actually need them.
The benefit amount you receive will be roughly half of your average weekly wage, up to the maximum weekly benefit amount. For 2025, I think the maximum is around $999 per week, but most people get less than that. You can see an estimate when you file your claim.
Good luck with your claim! The first time filing can seem overwhelming but it's really not that complicated once you get started. Just take it step by step and don't hesitate to ask questions if you get stuck. This community is pretty helpful for Washington ESD issues.
Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more confident about starting the process now. I'm going to file my claim today and will probably be back with more questions once I get into the weekly filing routine.
Just want to add that if you're filing for the first time, make sure you have your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment history ready. The application process asks for a lot of detailed information and it's easier if you have everything organized beforehand.
The most important thing is to file as soon as you're eligible. Benefits are only paid from the date you file, not from when you were actually laid off. So if you wait a week to file, you lose that week's benefit even if you were unemployed.
Annabel Kimball
After you file, you'll need to file weekly claims to actually receive benefits. Don't forget that part - filing the initial claim is just the first step.
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Annabel Kimball
•Every week, usually on Sundays. You'll get instructions after your initial claim is processed.
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Derek Olson
•And you have to keep filing them even if your claim is in adjudication or you might lose benefits for those weeks.
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Chris Elmeda
Last thing - be 100% honest on your application. Washington ESD will verify everything and any false information can disqualify you permanently.
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Rachel Tao
•Definitely planning to be completely honest. Not worth the risk of getting in trouble.
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Chris Elmeda
•Smart approach. Better to be approved slower than to have your claim denied for misrepresentation.
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