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Also keep in mind that if you do any freelance or gig work while collecting unemployment, you need to report those earnings on your weekly claims. Even if it's just a one-time job, report it honestly.
The job search requirement is 3 contacts per week but they want quality over quantity. Applying to jobs you're actually qualified for looks better than just submitting random applications to meet the number.
Last mention of this but seriously, if you end up needing to contact Washington ESD about your claim, check out Claimyr. The video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ shows exactly how it works and it's way better than the alternative of calling all day yourself.
Bottom line: if you're fired for reasons beyond your control or for performance issues where you were trying to improve, you'll likely get approved. Washington ESD sees the difference between misconduct and just not being the right fit for a job.
Remember that your benefit amount also determines how long you can collect - you get a certain number of weeks based on your total benefit year amount divided by your weekly benefit.
Bottom line: if you think Washington ESD made an error, appeal it. If the calculation seems right based on your actual earnings during the base period, that's probably what you'll get. Either way, file your weekly claims on time to avoid delays.
One last thing - keep ALL your paperwork! Separation notice from your employer, confirmation numbers from filing claims, everything. You never know when Washington ESD might ask for documentation.
Thanks everyone for all the advice! This has been super helpful. Going to file my claim tonight and get started on this whole process. Wish me luck!
And remember about Claimyr if you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD. Saved me a lot of headaches.
Seraphina Delan
If your claim gets stuck in adjudication like mine did, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier is actually really helpful for getting updates. The regular ESD phone lines are useless but they got me through to someone who could explain what was happening with my claim.
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Ryder Everingham
•How long did your adjudication take?
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Seraphina Delan
•About 5 weeks total, but at least I knew what was going on instead of just waiting and wondering.
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Jabari-Jo
Just remember that even if you fill everything out perfectly, there might still be delays. The system is overwhelmed and understaffed. Be patient but persistent if you need to follow up on anything.
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Kristin Frank
•This is so true. I had a perfect application and it still took 4 weeks to get my first payment. The system is just slow right now.
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Ryder Everingham
•At least I know what to expect now. Thanks everyone for all the advice!
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