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File immediately and don't look back. I've been through this process twice and waiting never helps anyone.
I used Claimyr when I had questions about my claim status and it was worth every penny. Got connected to an agent in under 20 minutes vs the 4+ hours I'd been trying to call directly.
Bottom line: Washington state law allows filing up to one year after unemployment begins, but benefits only start from your filing date. Don't wait another day - file immediately and start your weekly claims process.
The key is to file your initial claim online if possible. It's faster than calling and you avoid the phone wait times. Just go to the Washington ESD website and follow the prompts. You'll need your Social Security number, employment history, and reason for separation.
Just wanted to add that if you have any issues with your claim getting stuck in adjudication or need to verify information, don't waste weeks trying to call Washington ESD like I did. That Claimyr service everyone mentioned actually works - I finally got my issues resolved after using it. Sometimes you just need to bite the bullet and pay for help rather than bang your head against the wall for weeks.
Just want to echo what others have said about keeping detailed records. Save all your pay stubs, keep track of your hours worked each week, and document any communication with your employer about the hour reduction. If Washington ESD has questions later, you'll want to have all that information ready.
Has anyone dealt with the situation where your employer brings your hours back up after you've been getting partial benefits? Do you have to report that change immediately?
Malik Davis
UPDATE: I just got my determination letter today! Approved for $547 per week. The website still shows confusing status but the letter has all the clear information. Hang in there OP, yours should come soon!
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Giovanni Gallo
•Congrats! That gives me hope. How long did it take from when you filed to getting the letter?
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Malik Davis
•It was exactly 16 days from when I submitted my initial claim to getting the determination letter.
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Isabella Santos
The Washington ESD system really needs better communication. It shouldn't be this stressful to figure out if your claim was approved or not.
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Giovanni Gallo
•Totally agree. A simple status update system would make this so much less anxiety-inducing.
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