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Just want to confirm - the $999 maximum weekly benefit for 2025 is correct? I've seen some old information online with lower amounts.
Bottom line - take your highest earning quarter from your base period, divide by 26, and that's probably what your weekly benefit will be (unless it exceeds the $999 max). Everything else is just details.
My sister had to wait almost 6 weeks because she forgot to verify her identity. Make sure you've completed all the steps in your account.
I was in a similar boat but found out I was actually misclassified as a 1099 when I should have been a W-2 employee. If your client controlled your hours, provided equipment, or treated you like an employee, you might have grounds for a misclassification claim.
Bottom line - apply anyway. I thought I wouldn't qualify because of weird employment situations but Washington ESD surprised me. The online application takes like 20 minutes and they'll tell you if you're eligible.
One more thing to remember - if you do exhaust your regular benefits, you might be eligible for Extended Benefits (EB) if the unemployment rate triggers it, but that's pretty rare and we're not in that situation currently.
I'm at week 24 of 26 and finally got a job offer yesterday. Cutting it close but the benefits gave me the time I needed to find something decent instead of taking the first minimum wage job I could find.
Caleb Stark
Has anyone tried using the WorkSource offices for advice on this kind of situation? I wonder if they have counselors who can help you think through the decision and understand your options.
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Ella Thompson
•I didn't think of that! Are they just for job search help or do they provide other services?
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Caleb Stark
•They offer career counseling and can sometimes help with workplace issues. Might be worth a call to see what resources they have.
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Jade O'Malley
Final thought - whatever you decide, keep taking care of your mental health through this process. Toxic work environments can really mess with your head, and the unemployment process can be stressful too. Don't hesitate to seek counseling or support.
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Ella Thompson
•Thank you for that reminder. The stress has definitely been affecting me and I probably should talk to someone.
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Jade O'Malley
•Most insurance plans cover mental health services, and there are also community resources if you need them. Take care of yourself first.
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