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FYI the Washington ESD website has all this information but it's buried in different sections. The maximum benefit amount is posted in their benefits table but you have to dig around to find it. Would be nice if they made it more prominent since it's such a common question.
One last thing - if you think your benefit calculation is wrong, you can appeal it. I had to do this when they miscalculated my wages from one employer. Took a few weeks but they corrected it and I got back pay for the difference.
BTW, when you do file your claim, make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready. They'll ask for details about every job you had during the base period.
I've been through this process twice now and the hardest part is always getting through to someone at Washington ESD when you have questions. That Claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier really does help with that - I used it for my second claim when I needed to update my information.
Bottom line: if you're following the rules, reporting everything honestly, and keeping good records, you shouldn't have to pay anything back. The people who get in trouble are usually the ones who try to game the system or make honest mistakes they don't correct.
Just want to add - if you're ever unsure about something, it's better to ask than to guess wrong. The consequences of an overpayment can be serious, including having to pay back money you might have already spent.
The problem is actually getting through to ask questions. Washington ESD's phone system is impossible.
That's exactly why I recommend Claimyr to people. Sometimes you need to talk to a real person to avoid costly mistakes, and they make that possible.
Keep in mind that if you do qualify for a new claim, you'll have to go through the whole process again including job search requirements and waiting periods. It's not just an automatic extension of your current claim.
Bottom line is that extended benefits are rare and only available during high unemployment periods. Your best bet is to either qualify for a new regular claim or look into other assistance programs while you continue job searching. Don't count on extended benefits being available.
Emily Thompson
This thread is depressing but helpful. At least I know I'm not the only one dealing with this nightmare. Washington ESD really needs to get their act together.
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Olivia Kay
•Definitely helpful to know it's not just me, but frustrating that so many people are going through this.
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Sophie Hernandez
•The fact that services like Claimyr even need to exist shows how broken the system is.
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Daniela Rossi
Update us when you figure out what's going on! I'm in a similar situation and want to know what worked for you.
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Emily Nguyen-Smith
•Seriously consider Claimyr if the other suggestions don't work - getting an actual person on the phone changes everything.
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Ryan Kim
•Following this thread too - need all the help I can get with my own claim issues.
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