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The key thing is just getting started. The longer you wait, the more benefits you potentially lose since they don't backdate to when you became unemployed, only to when you applied.
Last tip - keep a notebook or folder with all your unemployment stuff. You'll get a lot of paperwork and it helps to stay organized.
The other thing to remember is that you can work part-time while collecting unemployment in Washington, but you need to report any wages you earn each week. They'll reduce your benefit amount accordingly but you won't lose benefits entirely as long as you're under certain thresholds.
Based on what you described with your work history, you should definitely qualify. Two jobs with consistent hours over most of the year probably puts you well over the wage requirements. Go ahead and file your claim - worst case scenario they say no, but I think you'll be approved.
Good plan! And remember you can always call Washington ESD if you have questions after filing, though you might want to use a service like Claimyr to actually get through to someone.
The phone numbers change sometimes too which makes it even more confusing. I bookmarked the official ESD contact page so I can check for updates: https://esd.wa.gov/unemployment/contact-us
Another tip - if you do get through, ask them to explain everything clearly and take notes. I finally reached someone after 2 weeks of trying and was so excited I forgot to ask half my questions.
The only people who might judge you for filing unemployment are people who have never been in that situation themselves. And their opinions don't matter anyway.
Just wanted to add that when I had trouble reaching Washington ESD about my weekly claims, Claimyr really helped me get connected quickly. Much better than spending hours on hold.
Aisha Abdullah
I wish there was better communication about timelines from Washington ESD. The uncertainty of not knowing when you'll hear back about adjudication makes everything so much more stressful.
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Ethan Davis
•Totally agree! The waiting period is the worst part. At least if they gave you a better estimate of how long it would take, you could plan accordingly.
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Chloe Taylor
•This is why I'm thinking about trying Claimyr to actually talk to someone. The uncertainty is driving me crazy.
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Yuki Tanaka
Just want to say good luck with your claim! Being fired is stressful enough without having to worry about whether you'll get benefits. At least you know now that it's worth filing and seeing what happens.
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Malik Johnson
•Thank you! I feel much better about the whole situation after reading everyone's responses. Going to file my claim today.
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Yuki Tanaka
•That's great! Hope everything works out for you. Keep us updated on how it goes.
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