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The earnings requirements aren't that high really. Even at minimum wage if you work steady for 8 months you should easily qualify. The bigger challenge is dealing with Washington ESD's terrible customer service when you need help.
So true! The system itself isn't that complicated once you understand it, but getting help when something goes wrong is nearly impossible.
Which is exactly why I was so glad to find Claimyr when my claim got stuck. Sometimes you just need to talk to an actual person to get things moving.
File immediately and keep records of everything. Save confirmation numbers, print out your application, and document all your communications with Washington ESD. This stuff becomes important if there are any disputes or issues with your claim later.
The day you become unemployed is the day you should file. There's literally no advantage to waiting and potentially significant disadvantages. Washington ESD's system is designed around claim filing dates, so delaying just creates problems for yourself.
If you're filing soon, make sure you have all your employment info ready - dates, wages, reason for separation, etc. The more accurate info you provide upfront, the less likely your claim will get delayed.
The hardest part for me was the waiting. Even when everything goes smoothly, it takes a few weeks to get your first payment. Make sure you have some savings to cover expenses during that initial period.
Don't overthink it too much. I was terminated for 'poor fit' with the team and got approved for benefits no problem. Washington ESD sees these cases all the time and they know the difference between actual misconduct and just not working out at a job.
Update us on how it goes! I'm always curious to hear how these situations turn out. Hoping Washington ESD approves your claim quickly so you can focus on finding something better.
Natasha Kuznetsova
If you're getting severance pay or have other income, make sure you report it when you file. Washington ESD will find out anyway and it's better to be upfront about it from the start.
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Amara Adebayo
•I might get a small severance check next month. Do I report that now or when I actually get it?
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Natasha Kuznetsova
•Report it when you actually receive it, not when you expect to get it. But definitely report it when you do your weekly claim that week.
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Javier Morales
Last thing - don't panic if your claim goes into adjudication or if there are delays. It's frustrating but the system is backed up and these things happen. Just keep filing your weekly claims and be patient.
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Amara Adebayo
•Thanks everyone for all the advice! I feel much more prepared to file now.
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Dylan Evans
•Good luck with your claim! Come back and let us know how it goes.
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