


Ask the community...
The lack of extensions is really hitting people hard. I know so many folks who are about to hit their 26-week limit with no job prospects.
Bottom line - no extended benefits available in Washington right now. Focus on your job search and look into other assistance programs before your benefits run out.
The documentation requirements can be pretty extensive for business owners. I had to provide articles of incorporation, tax returns, bank statements, and proof of business closure. Start gathering paperwork early if you decide to apply.
One more tip - if you do apply and get denied, you can appeal the decision. I know someone who was initially denied as a business owner but won on appeal because they were able to prove they should have been classified as an employee of their own corporation.
It's complicated and depends on how your business was structured. Some business owners can legitimately be employees of their corporation and pay unemployment taxes on themselves. An employment attorney would know more about the details.
Check your account every morning and evening. Sometimes they'll post updates or requests for information at odd hours and you want to respond as quickly as possible.
My advice is to document everything - when you called, who you talked to, what they said. If your hold drags on too long you might need that information to escalate your case.
yeah this forum has been super helpful when i had questions too. way better than trying to navigate the washington esd website alone!
Carmen Ruiz
Don't forget about your mental health during this process. Job searching while facing financial stress is incredibly difficult. Look into free counseling services if you need support.
0 coins
Malik Robinson
•Thank you for mentioning that. It has been really stressful and I probably should talk to someone about it.
0 coins
Carmen Ruiz
•A lot of community health centers offer sliding scale mental health services. It's worth looking into.
0 coins
Andre Lefebvre
The bottom line is there are no extensions right now, but there are other programs and resources available. The key is getting connected with someone at Washington ESD who can walk you through all your options. That's been the biggest challenge for most people - actually reaching someone who can help.
0 coins
Omar Farouk
•Seriously consider using Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD if you can't reach them on your own. Having that conversation with an actual agent made all the difference for me.
0 coins
Freya Andersen
•Good luck! Keep us posted on how things work out. And remember to keep filing those weekly claims and documenting your job search until you're officially told to stop.
0 coins