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This happened to my cousin last year. Turned out Washington ESD flagged her account for some random review and froze payments without telling her. She only found out when she finally got through to someone on the phone.
Payment timing is usually consistent but when there are issues you really need to talk to someone at Washington ESD to get answers. The online system doesn't always show what's really going on.
One more thing about benefit calculations - if your wages were really low in your base period, you might not qualify for unemployment at all. There are minimum earning requirements that vary by state. Washington ESD will tell you during the application process if you don't meet the requirements.
Just wanted to add that if you're confused about any of this stuff, the WorkSource offices around the state can help you understand the process. They have people who can walk you through filing your claim and explain how the benefit calculations work.
Also don't forget that unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can have taxes taken out automatically or pay them later, but just be aware of that.
The waiting period for first payments is brutal but hang in there. Once the payments start coming they're pretty reliable as long as you stay compliant with all the requirements. Just remember to file every week no matter what.
Madeline Blaze
Remember to file your weekly claims even if your initial claim is still processing! You have to maintain your claim to get benefits later.
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Zachary Hughes
•When do I start filing weekly claims? Right after I submit my initial application?
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Mia Alvarez
•You'll get instructions after your initial claim is processed. Usually you can start filing weekly claims within a few days of applying.
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Max Knight
One more tip - take screenshots of everything during your application process. If something goes wrong later, you'll have proof of what you submitted and when.
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Zachary Hughes
•Great advice, I'll definitely do that. Thanks everyone for all the help!
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Emma Swift
•Good luck with your claim! The first time filing can be nerve-wracking but once you get through the initial process it gets easier.
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