


Ask the community...
The waiting is the hardest part. I know everyone says keep filing weekly claims but it feels pointless when you're not getting paid. At least if determination goes in your favor you'll get all that backpay in one lump sum.
If you do end up trying Claimyr like others mentioned, make sure you have your Social Security number and PIN ready since the agent will need to verify your identity when you get connected.
The unemployment pay rate in Washington is actually pretty good compared to most states. Just remember that your benefit amount is based on your past earnings, not your current needs. Some people are disappointed when their benefits are lower than expected.
been collecting unemployment for 12 weeks now and my weekly benefit has stayed the same the whole time. as long as you file your weekly claims on time and meet the requirements, you should get your full WBA each week
been following this thread and wanted to add - even if you lose the initial adjudication decision, you can still appeal and request a hearing with an administrative law judge. that's where a lot of people actually win their cases
Hang in there OP! I know it's stressful but the system generally works if you're patient and provide good documentation. Most people who were legitimately eligible end up getting their benefits, even when employers contest.
Final thought - if you do run into any issues with your claim timing, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier actually worked great for me. Got through to a Washington ESD agent in like 10 minutes instead of spending hours on hold.
Bottom line: Wait until you're actually unemployed, file during your first week without work, have your employment info ready, and don't stress about the exact day. Washington ESD will sort out the details.
Paolo Bianchi
One more thing - if you're working part-time while receiving unemployment, those wages might affect your weekly benefit amount. Washington ESD has specific rules about how part-time earnings are calculated against your benefits.
0 coins
Liam Murphy
•Thanks for mentioning that! I might need to take some part-time work while looking for full-time employment.
0 coins
Paolo Bianchi
•Just make sure to report all earnings accurately on your weekly claims. It's better to report everything and let Washington ESD calculate the deductions than to risk being accused of fraud.
0 coins
Yara Assad
The bottom line is that there's no specific length of time you have to work at one job, but you do need sufficient overall work history and wages during your base period. Most people who've worked steadily for 12-18 months will qualify, regardless of how that work was distributed among different employers.
0 coins
Liam Murphy
•This has been incredibly helpful! I feel much more confident about understanding the requirements now. Thank you everyone!
0 coins
Yara Assad
•Glad we could help! The system is complex but once you understand the basics it makes more sense. Good luck with your current job!
0 coins