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One more thing - make sure you file your weekly claims even if your initial claim is still being processed. You need to maintain those weekly filings to be eligible for benefits once your claim is approved.
The system can be confusing at first but you'll get the hang of it. The main thing is you're starting now rather than waiting even longer. Six weeks isn't ideal but it's not the end of the world either.
Don't forget that Washington ESD also requires you to do job search activities to keep getting benefits. Make sure you're logging those in WorkSource or whatever system they're using now.
The real answer is it depends on your specific wage history, but for most people it ends up being 45-60% of what you were making. Just don't expect it to fully replace your income - it's meant to be temporary assistance while you find new work.
I tried calling Washington ESD for weeks after getting fired and could never get through. Finally used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and got connected to an agent who walked me through the whole process. Saved me so much frustration and time.
Bottom line - being fired for performance doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits in Washington. File your claim, be honest about the circumstances, and let the system work. Most people in your situation do end up getting approved.
Nia Watson
For anyone still struggling to get through to Washington ESD for questions about benefit calculations, that Claimyr service really is helpful. I was skeptical at first but it saved me hours of phone frustration. Sometimes you need to talk to an actual person to understand your specific situation.
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Alberto Souchard
•I might try that. I've been on hold for 2 hours today already and still haven't reached anyone.
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Nia Watson
•Exactly why I used it. Time is money when you're unemployed and job searching. Better to get your questions answered quickly so you can focus on finding work.
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Katherine Shultz
Bottom line for the original question: there's no fixed percentage. Washington ESD uses a complex formula based on your highest quarter earnings, subject to minimum and maximum limits. The effective replacement rate varies widely depending on your income level, but it's typically somewhere between 30-50% of your previous wages for most people.
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Felicity Bud
•Thanks everyone for all the detailed responses! This has been really helpful in understanding how Washington ESD calculates benefits.
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Katherine Shultz
•Glad we could help. Good luck with your job search, and don't forget to file your weekly claims on time once you get approved!
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