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Word of warning - make sure you report any part-time work or gig work while collecting unemployment. Even small amounts can affect your weekly benefit, and not reporting it can cause big problems later.
Just wanted to add that credit unions sometimes have financial counselors who understand unemployment benefits and can help you plan while waiting for your claim to process. They're not Washington ESD resources but can help with the financial stress part.
Update for anyone following this - I finally got through using the early morning calling strategy and it turns out they needed proof of my last day worked. Took 5 minutes to resolve once I got the right person. Sometimes the solution really is simpler than all the resources make it seem.
For what it's worth, I used Claimyr twice during my unemployment period - once to check on initial processing and once later when I had questions about job search requirements. Both times they got me through to Washington ESD agents who could actually help. Worth considering if you're stuck waiting with no answers.
Mia Green
I'm week 3 and still waiting. This thread is actually making me feel better knowing I'm not the only one dealing with delays. The uncertainty is the hardest part.
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Miranda Singer
•You're definitely not alone! It seems like 2-4 weeks is pretty normal for first payments.
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Mia Green
•Yeah, I'm trying to be patient but it's tough when bills are piling up.
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Emma Bianchi
Last thing I'll add - once your payments start, they're usually pretty reliable. I've been getting mine consistently every week for 3 months now, usually 2 days after filing my weekly claim. The wait for the first one is definitely the hardest part.
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Miranda Singer
•That's really reassuring to hear. I'll try to be patient for these first few weeks knowing it should be smooth sailing after that.
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Emma Bianchi
•Exactly! Once the system has you in it, it works pretty well. It's just that initial setup period that's stressful.
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