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At this point I'm just grateful Washington ESD exists at all. Could be worse - could be living in a state with no unemployment benefits.
Thanks for all the info everyone. At least now I know I'm not the only one dealing with long wait times. Guess I'll just have to be patient and keep checking my account.
Bottom line - treat unemployment like regular income because that's what it is for tax purposes. Have taxes withheld if you want to keep it simple, or set aside money yourself if you prefer more control. Just don't ignore it and hope it goes away.
One more plug for Claimyr if anyone else needs to reach Washington ESD quickly - I've used them twice now and both times got through in under 10 minutes instead of hours of busy signals. Check out their demo video if you're curious how it works.
Been following this thread and wanted to add that timing matters too. File your claim as soon as possible after termination, don't wait around hoping things will work out.
Final tip - if you do have to contest a claim, focus on facts not emotions. ESD adjudicators want documentation and specific incidents, not general complaints about an employee.
Megan D'Acosta
Just remember that even if you qualify for the maximum weekly amount, you still need to meet all the eligibility requirements each week - available for work, actively seeking work, and able to work. High benefits don't exempt you from any requirements.
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Sarah Ali
•Exactly. I know someone who lost benefits because they thought having the maximum amount meant they didn't have to job search as actively.
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Megan D'Acosta
•That's a costly mistake. Washington ESD takes the job search requirements seriously regardless of your benefit amount.
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Ryan Vasquez
The monetary determination letter you receive will also show your base period wages quarter by quarter, so you can verify they have the right information. If anything looks wrong, contact them immediately to get it corrected.
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Harper Thompson
•Thanks for all this helpful information everyone. I feel much more prepared for when my determination letter arrives.
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