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Make sure you file your claim right away after you quit if you decide to go through with it. There are time limits on when you can file, and delays can complicate your case.
Best of luck with whatever you decide. Workplace harassment is serious and you shouldn't have to endure it just to keep a paycheck. Washington ESD does recognize this as good cause, you just need to build a solid case.
The key thing to remember is that Washington ESD is required to pay you within a certain timeframe once your claim is approved. If there are unreasonable delays, you can file a complaint, but most issues resolve within 4-6 weeks max.
Final update: Got my first payment today, exactly 3 weeks and 2 days after filing! It included payment for all three weeks I had filed claims for. Thanks everyone for the advice and support!
The quarterly reporting deadlines are really important to keep track of. I think they're due by the end of the month following each quarter - so Q1 is due by April 30th, Q2 by July 31st, etc. Mark your calendar because the penalties for late filing are no joke.
Overall I'd say budget 3% of your total payroll for unemployment insurance to be safe. That gives you some cushion in case your rate ends up higher than the standard new employer rate. Better to overestimate than get caught short when the bills come due.
The good news is Washington state has pretty decent unemployment benefits compared to some other states. $200+ per week isn't amazing but it's enough to help cover basic expenses while job hunting.
If you want an exact answer, talking to an actual Washington ESD agent is the only way to know for sure. They can look at your specific wage history and tell you exactly what you'd qualify for. But good luck getting through to them on the phone!
This is why services like Claimyr exist - because Washington ESD's phone system is basically impossible to navigate on your own.
Aria Khan
Final thought - consider this time as an opportunity to maybe find something better than retail. Use the WorkSourceWA resources for career exploration and training programs. Some are even approved for extended unemployment benefits.
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Hattie Carson
•I've actually been thinking about that. Maybe this is a blessing in disguise to find something with better career prospects.
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Everett Tutum
•exactly! unemployment can be a chance to reset and find better opportunities
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Sunny Wang
I tried that Claimyr service too after seeing it mentioned here - totally worth it when you actually need to speak with someone at Washington ESD. The phone system is just impossible otherwise.
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Hattie Carson
•Good to hear another positive review of it. I'll definitely keep that in mind if I run into issues.
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