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Check this out - I found that calling right when they open at 8am gives you the best chance of getting through. But even then it's hit or miss. Sometimes I'd call 50+ times in a day.
I tried that strategy and still couldn't get through. The system just hangs up on you when they're at capacity.
That's where services like Claimyr come in handy. They automate the calling process so you don't have to sit there hitting redial all day.
Just wanted to update - my claim finally got approved after 7 weeks! No phone calls needed, it just went through on its own. Keep filing your weekly claims and be patient. I know it's hard but it will eventually process.
Another option if you can't get through to Washington ESD - I used a service called Claimyr when I was stuck in adjudication hell. They have agents who can actually get you connected to speak with someone at ESD. Really saved my sanity when I couldn't get through on my own. Check out their demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ if you're interested.
I'll keep that in mind if I have trouble reaching them. Sounds like it could be really helpful based on what others have said too.
Yeah I second that recommendation. Used Claimyr myself when I needed to get through about an overpayment issue. Worth it when you're desperate to talk to someone.
Bottom line - file your claim ASAP and let Washington ESD sort out whether you qualify or not. That's their job, not yours to figure out beforehand. Worst case scenario you get denied and can appeal. Best case you get approved and start receiving benefits.
One more thing - if you end up disagreeing with Washington ESD about your benefit amount, you can request a fact-finding interview before it goes to a formal appeal. Sometimes they can resolve calculation errors or missing wage issues through that process.
Thanks everyone for all the detailed info! This has been super helpful. I feel much more confident about filing my claim now that I understand how the benefit calculation works and what to expect. Sounds like with my salary I should get a decent weekly amount, at least enough to cover my essential expenses while I job search.
And remember that Claimyr service if you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD quickly. Made my whole experience way less stressful.
Don't stress too much about making it perfect. Thousands of people file for unemployment every week and most get through the process just fine. The Washington ESD staff are used to dealing with confused applicants and they're generally helpful when you can reach them.
Last piece of advice - keep copies of everything. Screenshot confirmation pages, print important documents, save emails. If anything goes wrong later you'll want to have proof of what you submitted and when.
Great point. I'll make sure to document everything as I go through the process. Thank you all so much for the help - feeling much more confident about this now!
PrinceJoe
I used to work for Washington ESD and can confirm that lump sum severance payments typically don't affect unemployment benefits. The confusion comes from people mixing up severance with other types of separation pay. Just be accurate when you report it and you should be fine.
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Chad Winthrope
•Thanks for the insider perspective! That gives me a lot of confidence.
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Brooklyn Knight
•Wish we had more people with actual Washington ESD experience answering questions here. So much misinformation gets spread.
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Owen Devar
Bottom line: File your claim, report your severance accurately, and let Washington ESD make the determination. Most people with lump sum severance can collect benefits immediately. The system is designed to help unemployed workers, not punish them for getting severance.
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Chad Winthrope
•Perfect summary. I'm filing today and not looking back. Thanks everyone for the help!
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Daniel Rivera
•Good luck! Hope it works out smoothly for you.
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