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Also remember that if you have trouble reaching Washington ESD customer service later (and you probably will based on my experience), there are services like Claimyr that can help you get through the phone queue when you really need to talk to someone.
Don't forget that you need to meet the monetary eligibility requirements too. Just because you can get the maximum weekly amount doesn't mean you automatically qualify if you haven't worked long enough or earned enough total wages.
The whole benefit calculation system is pretty complex. I'm glad Washington state has decent maximums compared to other places, but I wish the process was more transparent and easier to understand.
One more thought - if your employer contests your claim and Washington ESD initially denies you, don't give up. The appeal process often results in overturned decisions, especially for performance-related terminations where there wasn't clear misconduct.
Thanks for the encouragement. I really hope it doesn't come to that, but it's good to know appeals are an option if needed.
Last tip - when Washington ESD calls for your fact-finding interview, be completely honest but stick to the facts. Don't volunteer negative information about yourself, but don't lie either. Focus on the lack of formal warnings and your genuine efforts to do the job.
You can mention that you were still developing your skills, especially if it was a complex position or you didn't receive adequate training. That actually supports your case that it was a performance issue rather than misconduct.
And if you need to provide additional information after the interview, that's another situation where Claimyr can help you reach an agent quickly instead of spending hours on hold.
One more tip - if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your specific situation, try using Claimyr. I mentioned it earlier but it really does help cut through the phone queue nightmare. Made the whole process way less stressful for me.
Bottom line - don't let anyone tell you that you can only get unemployment if you're fired. That's completely wrong and you could be missing out on benefits you deserve. Hours reduction definitely qualifies in most cases.
Darcy Moore
Does anyone know if they consider your education level when determining suitable work? Like if you have a degree, can you turn down jobs that don't require one?
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Abby Marshall
•Education and experience are factors, but it depends on how long you've been unemployed. Early on, yes, they consider whether the job matches your qualifications.
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Darcy Moore
•That makes sense. I have a bachelor's degree and was worried I'd have to take any minimum wage job immediately.
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Dana Doyle
Bottom line - document everything, be honest in your weekly claims, and don't stress too much about one job refusal if you have valid reasons.
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Diez Ellis
•Thanks, that's good advice. I'm feeling much more confident about my decision now.
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Dana Doyle
•Good! Trust your instincts about what works for your situation. The system is supposed to help you find suitable work, not force you into impossible situations.
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