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Keep trying different times and methods. Eventually something will work. The key is persistence even though it's incredibly frustrating.
Good luck everyone. Hopefully Washington ESD fixes their phone system soon but until then we're all just trying to survive this broken process.
Keep us posted on what works! And seriously consider checking out claimyr.com if you get too frustrated with the regular calling.
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.
been on unemployment twice in the past few years and the key is staying organized. keep copies of everything, take screenshots of confirmations, and document every phone call or message. if something goes wrong you'll need that paperwork trail
The key things to remember: apply online at esd.wa.gov, have your employment history ready, be honest and complete in your answers, and don't delay in applying. The process itself isn't too complicated, it's the waiting and potential follow-up questions that can be frustrating. Good luck with your claim!
Good luck with your claim! The unemployment process can be stressful but at least Washington ESD is generally fair about these things if you follow the rules.
One last tip - make sure you start looking for work right away even while your claim is being processed. Washington ESD requires job search activities and it's better to get started early.
Lilah Brooks
Just want to point out that the 26 weeks is the maximum you can receive during your benefit year. Some people might qualify for fewer weeks depending on their work history and earnings. The Washington ESD website has a calculator to estimate your potential benefit duration.
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Jackson Carter
•Where is this calculator? I couldn't find it on their website.
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Lilah Brooks
•It's in the 'Before You Apply' section under benefit calculators. Though honestly their website navigation is terrible so it might be hard to find.
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Kolton Murphy
For anyone wondering about after the 26 weeks - you can't just immediately file a new claim. You need to work and earn enough wages to establish a new base period. The requirements are pretty specific about how much you need to earn.
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Evelyn Rivera
•How much do you need to earn to qualify for a new claim?
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Kolton Murphy
•In Washington, you generally need to earn at least 6 times your weekly benefit amount in covered employment after your claim was filed. But it's complicated and depends on your specific situation.
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