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The maximum benefit is nice but remember you have to have earned a significant amount to qualify. Most people end up getting somewhere between $300-600 per week based on their earnings history.
Also just a heads up - if your claim goes into adjudication for any reason, it can delay your first payment by several weeks. Happened to me even though I thought my case was straightforward. Had to use that Claimyr service to finally talk to someone and get it resolved.
Could be anything - if you were fired vs laid off, if there are questions about your work history, if you worked in multiple states. Sometimes it's random. Just be prepared for the possibility.
Overall the Washington ESD system works pretty well once you get through the initial setup. The weekly claims are straightforward to file online and payments usually come within a day or two of filing if you're on direct deposit.
For what it's worth, 26 weeks was enough for me to find work last time I was unemployed, but I got lucky with timing. The key is starting your job search immediately.
Just want to add that if anyone is getting close to exhausting benefits, don't forget about career centers and job training resources. Even if they can't extend your UI, they might have other support.
One more thing - if you ever have issues with your weekly claim or payments, document everything. Screenshots, dates, times you called, etc. Helps if you need to appeal anything later
Yeah documentation is key. And if you need help reaching Washington ESD about any issues, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier really does work - claimyr.com
Hope this all helped answer your question! The uncertainty at the beginning is normal but you'll get into a routine with the weekly filing and payment timing
Mohamed Anderson
Bottom line - you need to speak with both Social Security and Washington ESD to understand how your specific situation would be handled. Don't rely on general advice for something this complex.
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Selena Bautista
•That makes sense. I'll try to get official guidance from both agencies before making any decisions.
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Mohamed Anderson
•That's the smart approach. Make sure to document any conversations you have with them too.
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Alana Willis
Good luck with this. It's a tough situation to navigate but there might be options available to you.
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Selena Bautista
•Thanks everyone for all the advice. At least now I know what questions to ask.
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