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For anyone still having trouble getting through to Washington ESD with questions, I really can't recommend Claimyr enough. After spending literally hours on hold and getting disconnected multiple times, they got me connected to an agent in under an hour. Worth checking out their demo video if you're frustrated with the phone system.
Bottom line - if you were laid off and worked long enough to earn sufficient wages, you should qualify for unemployment benefits in Washington. The application process isn't that bad, it's getting help when you have questions that's the real challenge.
been through this process twice and my advice is don't count on the money being there right away even after approval. sometimes there are payment delays or system issues. try to have at least some emergency savings if possible before relying completely on unemployment
For what it's worth, Washington has some of the better unemployment benefits compared to other states. The weekly amounts are decent and the 26-week duration is pretty standard. Plus they've made the online system a lot better over the past few years.
The online system is definitely better than it used to be but calling them is still a nightmare if you have problems.
That's where services like Claimyr come in handy. I used them when I had adjudication issues and it saved me so much frustration trying to get through on the phone.
Your benefit amount stays the same for your entire claim year unless you have a new claim or your circumstances change significantly. So once you know your weekly amount, that's what you'll get each week you're eligible.
The maximum benefit duration is 26 weeks in Washington, but that's only if you qualify for the full amount based on your work history. Some people get fewer weeks depending on how much they worked.
The rates change annually based on the state's average weekly wage. So the amounts people are mentioning from previous years might be slightly different now.
Bottom line: you'll probably get a decent amount based on your previous salary, but the exact calculation depends on your specific earnings history. The determination letter will give you the definitive answer.
Zane Gray
Bottom line - plan for the full 26 weeks but hope you don't need them all. The job market is unpredictable so it's better to be prepared for a long search.
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Dylan Fisher
•Thanks everyone for all the helpful info. I feel much more prepared now to start my claim and job search.
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Alfredo Lugo
•Good luck with your claim! Remember to file your initial application as soon as possible since benefits don't start until you file.
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Maggie Martinez
One last thing - if you have any issues with your claim or questions about your benefit duration, definitely try that Claimyr service. I was skeptical at first but it really works for getting through to ESD when you need answers.
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Dylan Fisher
•I'll keep that in mind if I run into any problems. Hopefully the process goes smoothly but it's good to know there are options if I need help.
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Alejandro Castro
•I used Claimyr too when I had questions about my remaining weeks. Definitely worth it to get accurate information directly from ESD instead of guessing.
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