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Remember that your benefits will be deposited either by direct deposit or on a debit card. Direct deposit is faster - usually get payments within 1-2 business days instead of waiting for a card to arrive in the mail.
Just went through this whole process myself. The key thing is to be patient with the system but persistent about getting answers. If you run into issues, don't just sit there wondering - find a way to get through to someone who can help. Whether that's calling early in the morning, using one of those callback services, or whatever it takes.
Thanks for all the advice everyone. This gives me a much better idea of what to expect. Sounds like I should be able to get enough to cover my basic expenses while I look for something new.
One thing to remember is that your benefit year lasts 52 weeks from when you first file, but you can only collect up to 26 weeks of benefits during that year (unless there are extensions). So even if you go back to work and then get laid off again within that 52 weeks, you'd continue on the same claim.
The benefit amount is just the starting point honestly. The real challenge is actually getting approved and then keeping up with all the requirements to keep getting paid. But at least now you know what to expect money-wise!
Just wanted to add that if you received unemployment last year and forgot to report it on your taxes, you should file an amended return. The IRS will eventually catch it anyway and you'll owe penalties.
The tax withholding saved my butt this year. Got a small refund instead of owing money. If you're on the fence about it, just do it. The peace of mind is worth it.
If anyone's still having trouble reaching Washington ESD by phone, I used Claimyr last month and it was a game changer. Got connected to an agent in under an hour when I'd been trying for days on my own.
One last thing - keep all your employment records, pay stubs, and termination paperwork. Washington ESD might ask for documentation to verify your claim.
Nia Thompson
One last thing - make sure you understand the difference between 'able and available' and 'actively seeking work.' You have to be both to qualify for benefits each week. Able and available means you're physically and mentally capable of working and available to accept work. The job search requirement is separate from that.
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Oliver Zimmermann
•What if you're sick one week? Do you still file a claim?
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Nia Thompson
•If you're too sick to work, you wouldn't be 'able and available' that week, so you'd answer 'no' to that question on your weekly claim. You might not get paid for that week, but you should still file the claim.
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Mateo Rodriguez
This thread has been super helpful for me too. I'm bookmarking it in case I need to reference it later. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences!
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Oliver Zimmermann
•Same here! It's nice to know there are people who've been through this before and are willing to help.
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Sean O'Donnell
•That's what these forums are for. We've all been there and know how stressful it can be when you're dealing with unemployment for the first time.
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