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Quick tip - when you file make sure your reason for separation is accurate. Don't say you quit if you were fired, even if it was unfair. Washington ESD will verify with your employer and inconsistencies just slow things down.
File today if possible. The waiting week starts from when you file, not when you were terminated. Every day you wait is money you're losing. Washington ESD processes claims pretty quickly if there are no complications.
The whole unemployment system is such a mess. They make it so complicated when people are already stressed about losing their jobs. At least threads like this help people figure out the basics.
I agree the system could be more user-friendly, but the basic rule is simple: file as soon as you're unemployed and keep filing weekly. Everything else can be sorted out later.
For anyone reading this thread later - the key takeaway is don't overthink it. File immediately after your last day of work, keep your documentation handy, and file your weekly claims religiously. The rest will work itself out.
Has anyone had success reaching Washington ESD to ask about getting a tax document early or anything like that? I want to start preparing my taxes as soon as possible.
I actually got through to them using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. The agent told me the 1099-G forms go out in the last week of January typically.
This whole discussion has made me realize I should probably talk to a tax preparer this year instead of doing it myself. The unemployment income adds a whole new layer of complexity.
If you're having trouble with the website or need to speak to someone, I ended up using Claimyr after weeks of failed attempts to call. Worth checking out their demo video to see if it might help you too.
Teresa Boyd
One thing to keep in mind - even if you get approved, you'll need to keep filing your weekly claims and doing job searches. Washington ESD has work search requirements that you need to meet to keep getting benefits.
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Teresa Boyd
•I think it's 3 job search activities per week but check the Washington ESD website for current requirements.
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Lourdes Fox
•If you need help navigating all the weekly claim stuff or have questions about your claim status, claimyr.com made it way easier for me to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD when I had issues.
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Bruno Simmons
The bottom line is that getting fired doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits in Washington. The reason matters more than the fact that you were terminated. File your claim and let Washington ESD make the determination.
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Kelsey Hawkins
•Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice. Really appreciate it!
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Aileen Rodriguez
•Good luck with your claim!
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