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THE WASHINGTON ESD SYSTEM IS SUCH A MESS! I qualified for maximum benefits but it took them 2 MONTHS to process my claim. By the time I got paid I was already behind on rent and bills. This state's unemployment system needs a complete overhaul!
I feel your frustration! The delays are ridiculous. When I was going through similar issues, I ended up using a service called Claimyr that helped me get through to Washington ESD much faster. Sometimes you just need to talk to an actual human to get things resolved instead of waiting for the system to work.
Quick question - does the maximum benefit amount change if you're collecting partial unemployment while working reduced hours?
Partial unemployment benefits are calculated differently. You can earn up to 30% of your weekly benefit amount without any reduction. Above that, they reduce your benefit dollar for dollar. So the maximum weekly amount stays the same, but you might not receive the full amount depending on your earnings.
been following this thread and wanted to add - if you do file and get stuck in adjudication hell like so many of us, there are resources out there to help you navigate the system. don't give up if your first attempt gets denied
The bottom line is that Washington ESD CAN approve benefits for people who quit with good cause, but you need to be prepared to fight for it and have solid documentation. It's not impossible but it's definitely not easy.
The monetary determination will also show if you have any prior overpayments that need to be repaid. This can affect your benefit amount if they're doing collections.
Bottom line - file your claim and wait for the monetary determination letter. That's the only way to know for sure what your exact benefit amount will be. The calculation formulas are helpful for estimates but the official determination is what matters.
One thing to remember is that your benefit amount is based on your past earnings, not your current needs. So even if you need more money to cover your expenses, you can only get what you qualify for based on your work history.
Connor Murphy
Just wanted to add that if you're getting close to exhausting your benefits, some counties have additional resources and programs that might help bridge the gap while you're still job searching. Might be worth looking into.
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Dylan Wright
•Good point. I wish I had known about local resources when I was in that situation.
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Carmen Reyes
•I'll keep that in mind as I get further into my claim. Hopefully I'll find something before then though.
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Yara Haddad
Bottom line: 26 weeks max for regular unemployment in Washington, but your actual duration depends on your wages. Check your account for exact numbers and plan ahead. The system isn't going to hold your hand through it.
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Carmen Reyes
•Thanks everyone for all the info! This thread has been really helpful in understanding how it all works.
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Zoe Christodoulou
•agreed, way more helpful than trying to navigate the washington esd website
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