UPDATE: I was able to get through to Washington ESD using that Claimyr service and found out I do have 6 weeks left on my regular benefits. The agent also told me about a job fair next week that I didn't know about. Sometimes talking to an actual person makes all the difference!

Hey Freya, I totally understand the anxiety you're feeling at week 20! I went through the same thing last year. In Washington state, you get up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits, so you should have about 6 weeks remaining. The key thing is to check your Washington ESD account online - look for your "claim summary" or "payment history" section where it shows your maximum benefit amount and how much you've already used. That'll give you the exact number. Don't panic yet though - 6 weeks is still time to find something, and make sure you keep filing those weekly claims even as you get close to the end. Also consider looking into any WorkSource training programs now rather than waiting until you're out of benefits. Hang in there!

I finally got through to Washington ESD using that Claimyr service and confirmed my benefit calculation. Turns out my estimate was pretty close - I'm getting $385/week which matches the highest quarter divided by 26 formula. The agent was actually helpful once I could reach someone.

Just remember that the benefit calculation is only step one. You still have to meet all the ongoing requirements like job searching and filing weekly claims. The weekly benefit amount doesn't matter if you lose eligibility for not following the rules.

One more tip - if they do put your claim in adjudication and you need to talk to someone about the status, that Claimyr thing people mentioned actually works. I was skeptical at first but when I couldn't get through to Washington ESD for weeks, it was worth trying. Got answers about my case that I never would have gotten otherwise.

Just want to add that you should also keep records of any communications you had with your manager about the hour reduction - texts, emails, schedule changes, etc. Washington ESD will want to see a clear timeline of what happened. Also, when you file, be prepared for them to contact your former employer to verify your story, so make sure everything you report is accurate. The fact that you stuck it out for 2 months trying to make it work actually helps show you didn't just quit impulsively. Good luck with your application!

Good luck with everything! The system can be confusing but once you get started it's not too bad.

One thing I learned when I was laid off last year - make sure you file online rather than trying to call. Washington ESD's website can be slow during peak hours, but it's still way more reliable than their phone system. I spent days trying to get through by phone before someone told me I could do everything online. Also, don't stress too much about the application itself - they walk you through it step by step and you can always correct information later if needed.

Overall, at $1,500/week you're looking at roughly 55% income replacement if you get the maximum benefit. It's not perfect but it's something while you job search.

One thing I'd add is to make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and bank account info ready when you file. Washington ESD also asks for your employer's federal tax ID number (FEIN) which you can usually find on your W-2 or paystub. Having all this info ready will make the initial application process much smoother.