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Just remember that once you do start getting benefits, you have to file your weekly claim every week to keep getting paid. Don't miss a week or you'll have to start over with the whole process.
The waiting is the worst part. Once you get your first payment everything feels more manageable. Just hang in there and keep checking the website for updates.
Just wanted to add that if you're currently on unemployment, make sure you're meeting all your requirements. Don't let worries about the future derail your current claim.
My take: prepare for change but don't panic. Keep your skills current, stay flexible, and remember that humans have adapted to technological disruption before.
Cyclical unemployment is actually really common in Washington state given our aerospace and tech industries. Both are sensitive to economic cycles.
Final thought - regardless of whether your unemployment is cyclical, structural, or frictional, Washington ESD's requirements are the same: you must be able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work. The economic theory behind your job loss doesn't change those basics.
Thanks for asking this question OP. I'm in a similar situation and this discussion has given me a lot to think about for planning ahead.
The system really should have better transition support but it is what it is. Focus on what you can control - expanding your search, networking, maybe picking up some temp work to keep income flowing.
Eli Butler
Been filing weekly claims for 4 months now and my biggest advice is just to be consistent. File every week at the same time and keep good records. Makes everything much easier.
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Zara Perez
•Thanks for all the advice everyone! I feel much more confident about filing my weekly claims now.
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Eli Butler
•You'll do fine. The first one is always the most confusing but after that it becomes second nature.
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Marcus Patterson
Oh and one last thing - save or screenshot your confirmation page after you file each week. Sometimes there are technical glitches and having proof you filed can save you headaches later.
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Zara Perez
•Great tip! I'll make sure to save the confirmation.
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Ella Russell
•Yes, definitely do this. I had to prove I filed a claim once when their system had issues and the screenshot saved me.
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