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If you're worried about getting disqualified, another option is to use Claimyr to talk to an agent and get clarity on your specific situation. Way better than guessing or getting bad advice online.
One last thing - make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week even if you think you might not qualify. Missing those deadlines can create problems even if you're ultimately eligible.
Bottom line: Washington employees pay $0 into unemployment insurance. It's 100% employer-funded through payroll taxes. But you still earn eligibility through your work history and wages.
Great discussion everyone. Just to wrap up - if you do end up needing to file for unemployment, don't hesitate because you think you haven't 'paid your dues.' The system is designed to support workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own, regardless of who pays the premiums.
One thing nobody mentioned - if you have wages in another state during your base period, you might need to file a combined wage claim. Washington ESD can use wages from other states to establish your claim if needed.
The base period calculation seems straightforward but there are so many edge cases and exceptions. Military service, federal employment, out-of-state wages - it gets complicated fast.
That's exactly why services like Claimyr exist - to get around that phone system bottleneck and actually reach a knowledgeable agent.
Don't let them intimidate you into giving up. The appeals process exists for a reason and a lot of initial denials get overturned when people actually appeal. The worst thing you can do is nothing.
One more thing - make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even while your appeal is pending. If you win the appeal, you won't get paid for weeks you didn't file claims for, even if your denial gets overturned.
Yes! This is super important. You have to maintain your claim by filing weekly even during appeals or you'll lose those weeks permanently.
Amara Okonkwo
Whatever happens, don't take it personally. These hearings are just about determining eligibility for benefits based on the facts. Stay professional and focused on what actually happened.
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Astrid Bergström
•Good advice. I'll try to keep my emotions in check and just focus on presenting the facts clearly.
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Giovanni Marino
Update us after your hearing! I'm curious to know how it goes. Good luck!
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Astrid Bergström
•Will do! Thanks everyone for all the advice and support. Feeling much more prepared now.
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