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btw dont forget u have to file for unemployment withing liek 4 weeks of quitting ur job or u might not be elligible anymore!! i waited too long once and they told me i filed too late :/
That's only partially correct. While you should file as soon as possible, there's no strict 4-week deadline. However, your effective date can't be backdated beyond the week you apply, so you could lose potential benefits by waiting. Also, if you wait too long, it can raise questions about whether you're truly available for work and actively seeking employment.
Thank you everyone for all this helpful information. I'm going to make an appointment with my therapist tomorrow to discuss getting proper documentation. It sounds like I should: 1. Apply ASAP rather than waiting 2. Be completely honest about quitting both jobs 3. Get detailed documentation about my condition 4. Request a job search waiver if my therapist supports it 5. Be prepared for possible denial and appeal I'm still really anxious about the whole process, but at least I have a clearer picture now of what to expect. It's comforting to know others have been through similar situations.
Just a heads up - if you're getting close to using all your regular UI, make sure you understand what happens after. When I exhausted my regular UI last fall, I thought I'd automatically qualify for extended benefits, but that program isn't active right now since unemployment rates aren't high enough in Washington. Really caught me off guard! Start applying to more jobs now even if you have weeks left.
That's really good advice, thank you. I've been applying to about 5 jobs a week (more than the required 3), but I'll definitely ramp it up. Do you know if the training benefits program is still available? I've been thinking about taking some certification courses if my job search drags on.
Yes, the Training Benefits (TB) program is still available in 2025. If you're approved for training, you can receive additional weeks of benefits while attending an approved training program. You should apply for this as soon as possible though, as there's an application process and you need to be approved before exhausting your regular benefits. Contact your local WorkSource office to discuss your options - they can help determine if you qualify and guide you through the application process.
anybody know if seasonal workers get less weeks? my brother works construction and said he only got like 20 weeks
The number of weeks doesn't change based on industry, but the total benefit amount is calculated based on your earnings during your base year. Some seasonal workers might have lower earnings during certain quarters, which could result in a lower maximum benefit amount. With a lower weekly benefit amount, the same maximum benefit might stretch over more weeks. Conversely, higher earners might have fewer weeks because their weekly amount is higher.
my cousin works at esd and he said they r really backed up right now so even if u report it they might not even look at it for weeks lol
Here's what I recommend you do: 1. Apply for UI benefits right away online at esd.wa.gov 2. In your application, clearly explain that you were on medical leave, that your benefits expired, and that your employer is requiring you to take a leave of absence or resign because they cannot accommodate your temporary restrictions 3. Gather documentation: doctor's note with return date, communications from your school about the leave of absence requirement, any written policies about returning to work 4. If you get denied initially (which is common in complex cases), immediately file an appeal - you'll have 30 days to do so 5. While waiting for UI, also apply for PFML if you haven't already to see if you qualify for that program 6. Consider requesting a determination interview with ESD where you can explain your situation in detail The key issue is demonstrating that your unemployment is not your fault and that despite having "reasonable assurance" for next school year, you're being forced into this gap in employment.
did u check if ur eligible for disabillity benefits? might be easier than dealing with ESD and all their rules about school employees...
Norman Fraser
dont forget they take taxes out if u selected that option when u filed! my backdate amount was way less than i expected
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Fernanda Marquez
•Yeah, I did select to have taxes withheld. The $4800 I mentioned is after the tax withholding. Thanks for the reminder though!
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Dyllan Nantx
mine took 10 days once and only 2 days another time... its totally random lol
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Destiny Bryant
•Classic ESD inconsistency! They really need to standardize their processes better.
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