This is such a helpful thread! I'm also seeing $0 on my claim that I filed 6 days ago. Reading everyone's experiences here is way more informative than anything I could find on the official Washington ESD website. It sounds like 1-2 weeks is pretty typical for the wage verification process to complete. I'll try to be patient and keep checking daily. Thanks to everyone who shared their timelines and outcomes - it really helps reduce the anxiety of not knowing what's normal!

I'm in the same boat - filed my claim 5 days ago and seeing that dreaded $0 benefit amount. It's honestly terrifying when you're already stressed about losing your job and then the system shows zero dollars. But reading through all these experiences has been incredibly reassuring! It seems like the 1-3 week timeframe for wage verification is pretty standard. I'm going to try to be patient and keep checking daily rather than driving myself crazy trying to get through on the phone lines. Really appreciate everyone sharing their timelines and outcomes here - this community support means a lot during an already difficult time.

Just remember that the $999 maximum is gross, so after taxes and any other deductions you'll take home less than that. But it's still a decent amount to help bridge the gap while you're looking for work.

Just went through this process myself last month. With your $4,200 monthly salary, you should definitely qualify for close to the maximum $999 weekly benefit, assuming you worked at that level for at least a few months during your base period. The key thing is that Washington ESD calculates based on your highest-earning quarter, so if you were consistently making that amount, you're in good shape. Make sure to file online as soon as possible - the sooner you get your claim in, the sooner you'll start receiving benefits. Good luck with your claim!

Just wanted to say your employer sounds AWFUL and I'm sorry you're dealing with this while pregnant. The stress is the last thing you need right now. This is why we need better worker protections in this country!! Companies get away with this garbage all the time because they know most people won't have the resources to fight back.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this situation! As someone who went through a similar experience (fired during pregnancy), I wanted to share what worked for me. First, definitely document everything you can about your termination - emails, performance reviews, anything that shows the real reason wasn't performance. I also recommend contacting the Washington State Human Rights Commission if you suspect pregnancy discrimination. For the UI benefits after PFML - yes, you can absolutely apply! The key is being completely ready to work when you file. I made the mistake of applying too early when I wasn't quite ready for full-time work yet, and it caused delays. Wait until you have reliable childcare lined up and can honestly say you're available for any work schedule. One tip: when you do apply for UI, be prepared for your former employer to contest it. They almost always do to keep their rates down. But if you have documentation showing the firing wasn't for misconduct, you'll likely win an appeal if needed. Also, start networking now if you can - having job leads ready will help you meet the job search requirements once you're on UI. Pregnancy discrimination is unfortunately common, but you have rights and resources available. Hang in there!

Last tip - if you end up needing to contact Washington ESD and can't get through, that Claimyr service at claimyr.com really does work. Saved us hours of frustration and my son got his issues resolved quickly. Sometimes paying for help is worth it when benefits are on the line.

Just wanted to add that if your teen does qualify, they should also look into whether they're eligible for any job training programs through WorkSource Washington. Sometimes being on unemployment opens doors to free skills training that can lead to better paying jobs than restaurant work. My neighbor's daughter used her unemployment period to get certified in food safety and customer service, which helped her land a better position at a hotel. Worth exploring while they're job searching!

My advice is to file your claim as soon as possible even if you're not sure about the exact amount. The sooner you file, the sooner you'll know your actual weekly benefit amount and can plan accordingly. Plus there's usually a waiting week anyway.

Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD by phone, try their online messaging system through your eServices account. I've had better luck getting responses that way, especially for benefit calculation questions. It takes 1-2 business days but at least you get a written response you can refer back to. Also, make sure to keep copies of all your wage statements from the past 18 months - you might need them if there are any discrepancies in your earnings record.