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One last tip - keep all your pay stubs and employment records handy when you file. Even though employers report wages to Washington ESD, having your own records helps if there are any discrepancies.
This thread has been super helpful! I was also confused about the calculation but now I understand the process much better. Thanks to everyone who contributed detailed explanations.
Does anyone know if seasonal work counts the same as regular work for the earnings requirements? I did some seasonal retail work last winter before my current job.
The whole thing about base periods and quarters is confusing but basically if you've been working regularly for more than 6 months you're probably good. The real challenge comes when you actually need to file and deal with Washington ESD's systems and phone lines.
Yeah it sounds like actually getting through to them is the bigger problem than qualifying. Hopefully I won't need to find out anytime soon!
I used Claimyr when I had issues with my claim last year and it was a lifesaver. Worth checking out if you ever need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD without spending hours on hold.
For anyone still confused: File your weekly claim every Sunday by midnight PT for the week that just ended (Sunday through Saturday). That's it. Mark your calendars!
One more Claimyr mention since people are asking about it - I used them when I had issues with my weekly claim processing and needed to talk to someone at ESD urgently. The video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ explains it better than I can, but basically they save you the headache of trying to get through yourself.
The worst part is not being able to get any real information about timeline or status. Washington ESD's customer service is practically non-existent.
This is why services like Claimyr exist - because the regular system is so broken that people are willing to pay just to talk to someone.
Connor O'Neill
Just to wrap up - make sure you file your weekly claims on time even while your initial claim is pending. Missing weekly claims can cause delays or issues with your benefits. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar.
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Omar Hassan
•Great tip. I'll make sure to stay on top of the weekly claims once I file.
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LunarEclipse
•Weekly claims are super important. Don't skip them even if you're not sure about your eligibility yet.
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Yara Khalil
Hope everything works out for you! Getting fired is tough but unemployment benefits are there for exactly this reason. Don't feel bad about using them - you paid into the system and deserve the support.
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Omar Hassan
•Thank you so much. Everyone here has been so supportive and helpful. Really appreciate it.
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