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Thanks everyone for all the advice! I'm going to file tomorrow and select 'laid off' since that aligns with what my supervisor told me about budget cuts and position elimination. I feel much more confident now about my choice.
Glad I could help with the Claimyr suggestion. Having that direct contact with Washington ESD really makes a difference when you have questions.
Good luck with your claim! Most people in your situation do get approved, it just might take a few weeks if your employer contests it. Don't give up and make sure to keep filing your weekly claims even if the initial decision is pending.
Just wanted to add that if you need help getting through to Washington ESD later on, there are services like Claimyr that can help you reach an actual person instead of sitting on hold forever. Really saved me when I had issues with my claim.
One thing that's definitely better now than historically - online claim filing. Can you imagine having to go to physical offices for everything like they did decades ago?
Final thought - whether unemployment is decreasing due to 1950s-style economic boom or just better Washington ESD processing, the important thing is people are getting back to work and claims are moving faster. That's progress either way.
Don't let them intimidate you into not filing. Even if you're not sure about eligibility, let Washington ESD make that determination. Worst case scenario is they deny your claim, but at least you tried. Best case is you get the benefits you need while looking for a new job.
One more thing - if you do get denied initially, don't give up. The appeal process exists for a reason and many people win their appeals even after being denied. I've seen cases where the initial determination was wrong and got overturned.
You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal. Don't wait until the last minute though.
And if you need help understanding the appeal process, those Claimyr folks might be able to help explain your options when you talk to a Washington ESD agent.
QuantumQuester
Try calling first thing in the morning right when they open. I've had better luck getting through around 8am than later in the day.
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AstroAdventurer
•I'll try that tomorrow morning. What number do you call?
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QuantumQuester
•The main customer service line - 800-318-6022. But honestly even early morning can be hit or miss.
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Yara Nassar
UPDATE: I tried the Claimyr service mentioned earlier and finally got through to Washington ESD! Turns out my employer did report me as 'quit' instead of 'laid off' which triggered the automatic disqualification. The agent helped me file an appeal and said it should be resolved within 2-3 weeks. Thanks everyone for the help!
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Zoe Papanikolaou
•so glad you got it figured out! hope your appeal goes through quickly
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Dylan Cooper
•Perfect example of why these employer reporting errors are so common. At least now you know what you're dealing with.
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