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Let us know how it goes! I wish I'd known about the domestic partnership rules when I was dealing with my claim. I actually gave up after my denial because the appeal process seemed so daunting. Fingers crossed your adjudication comes through quickly!
Good luck with your claim! I went through something similar when my spouse got transferred for work. One thing that really helped was creating a timeline document showing the sequence of events - when your partner got the job offer, when you gave notice, when you moved, etc. It helps the adjudicator see that this was a necessary decision, not just a voluntary choice. Also, if your former employer is willing, get a letter from them confirming that remote work or transfer wasn't an option. ESD sometimes looks more favorably on claims when they can see you explored alternatives first. The whole process is frustrating but don't give up - your situation sounds like it should qualify under the spouse/partner relocation rules.
That's excellent advice about creating a timeline! I wish I had thought of that earlier. I did ask my former boss about remote work options, but our role required being on-site for client meetings and lab work. I'll definitely include that information along with the timeline when I submit everything. It really helps to hear from people who've been through this successfully - gives me hope that the system does work sometimes, even if it takes forever!
I just got off the phone with ESD (finally!) and the agent told me they're aware of widespread issues with both the phone system and website errors. She confirmed they can help file missed weekly claims over the phone and that they're prioritizing cases where people have been unable to file due to technical issues. She also mentioned that if you get the WS-839 error specifically, you should try the eServices mobile app instead of the website - apparently it's using a different server that isn't as overloaded. For the original poster: Based on what the agent told me, I'd recommend documenting every time you've tried to call (dates and times) and keeping screenshots of any website errors. This will help them verify you've been making good faith efforts to file.
Just wanted to share my experience from this week - I finally got through using a combination of the advice here! I called the technical support number (888-316-5066) that @Melina Haruko mentioned at exactly 8:00am, used the menu sequence 4-1-2-1 that @Pedro Sawyer shared, and only waited about 35 minutes. The agent was super helpful and filed my three missed weeks on the spot. Also tried the mobile app suggestion - it worked way better than the website! No more WS-839 errors. For anyone still struggling, definitely try downloading "WA ESD eServices" from the app store first before dealing with the phone system. Thanks everyone for all the tips - this community is a lifesaver when the official systems are failing us!
man this whole thread is making me grateful I haven't had to deal with this stuff yet but also worried about what happens when my parents get older. scary to think about
This is such valuable information! I'm actually in a similar situation - my father-in-law has been declining rapidly and we're starting to think about care options. It's reassuring to know that Washington recognizes family caregiving as good cause for unemployment benefits. I had no idea this was even a possibility. Thanks for sharing your story and best of luck with your claim, Samantha. Your mom is lucky to have someone who cares so much about her wellbeing.
Thank you Leslie! It really helps to know others understand this situation. The decline can happen so fast with these conditions - one day they're mostly independent and then suddenly they need constant supervision. I hope you don't have to make the same choice I did, but if you do, this thread has shown there are options and support available. Wishing you and your father-in-law the best during this difficult time.
Pro tip: if you get denied for any reason, appeal immediately. Don't wait. The appeal deadlines are strict and you can't get benefits while waiting for an appeal hearing if you miss the deadline.
The reality is that unemployment benefits aren't designed to fully replace your income. They're meant to provide temporary assistance while you look for work. Most people need to make significant budget adjustments to make it work.
Start planning those cuts now, even before you file. It's easier to adjust gradually than all at once when you're stressed about money.
Layla Sanders
prob just need to wait longer. i know its stressful but the system is slow. keep filing weekly claims tho
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Mohammed Khan
•I'll keep filing and try to be patient. This thread has been really helpful - thanks everyone!
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Ali Anderson
I'm a newcomer here and going through the exact same thing! Filed my claim about a week ago and the uncertainty is driving me crazy. Reading through all these responses is actually really reassuring - sounds like this is totally normal and I just need to be more patient. I'm definitely going to check my spam folder and the correspondence section in my account like people suggested. Thanks for asking this question Mohammed, I was too nervous to post but needed these answers too!
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