


Ask the community...
Has anyone used the Claimyr service mentioned earlier? I'm curious if it actually works or if it's just another scam targeting desperate unemployment claimants.
Bottom line - be completely honest, report everything accurately, and keep looking for full-time work. As long as you do that, working part-time while collecting benefits is totally allowed in Washington.
Has anyone dealt with the 'able and available' requirements? I had a medical issue during my claim and had to jump through hoops to prove I was still able to work. Almost lost several weeks of benefits over that.
Bottom line - if you worked steadily and meet all the requirements, you're looking at up to 26 weeks of benefits. But start job searching immediately, keep detailed records, and don't assume anything about your claim status. Check your SAW account regularly and respond to any requests from Washington ESD right away.
The formula is: (Highest quarter wages × 0.0385) = Weekly benefit amount, but capped between $295-$999. You also need: 1) Earnings in at least 2 quarters, 2) Total base period wages ≥ 1.5 × highest quarter wages, 3) Total base period wages ≥ $3,850. Pretty straightforward once you know the rules.
Just remember that calculating your benefit amount is just the first step. You still need to meet all the ongoing requirements like job search activities, being available for work, and filing your weekly claims on time to actually receive the money.
OH and one more thing I just remembered - if you worked in another state in the past year, that could affect your claim. You might need to file in the state where you earned the most wages, or possibly file a combined wage claim. Just something to keep in mind.
For what it's worth, I applied last month and the whole process was pretty smooth. Got my determination letter in 8 days and started receiving benefits on schedule. The key is just having all your information ready before you start.
Jamal Edwards
The bottom line is yes, you can usually get unemployment if you're fired, but be prepared for it to take some time and potentially involve some back-and-forth with Washington ESD. Having help navigating the system definitely makes it easier.
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PixelPrincess
•Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses. I feel much more prepared now if I do end up getting fired.
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Jamal Edwards
•Hope it doesn't come to that, but at least you know your options now. Good luck!
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Mei Chen
Been following this thread and wanted to add that Claimyr really is worth trying if you run into problems reaching Washington ESD. I was skeptical at first but it saved me so much time and frustration when I needed to talk to someone about my claim.
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Mei Chen
•They basically handle the waiting and get you connected to an actual Washington ESD representative. Way better than spending your whole day hitting redial.
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PixelPrincess
•I'll definitely keep that in mind. Sounds like dealing with Washington ESD by phone is pretty challenging.
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