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If you're really stressed about timing, you might want to look into local food banks or emergency assistance programs while you wait. It can take the pressure off a bit.
Just remember that even if your claim takes a while to process, you'll get paid retroactively for all the weeks you filed (except the waiting week). So don't give up!
Just want to emphasize what others have said - DO NOT try to claim unemployment while on maternity leave thinking you won't get caught. Washington ESD has ways of verifying employment status and availability, and fraud charges are serious.
Final thought for OP - since you're planning ahead, make sure you understand both the PFML application timeline and requirements. It's great that you're thinking about this now instead of scrambling after the baby arrives!
Thanks everyone for all this information! I feel much more informed about the process now. I'm going to file my claim and be completely transparent about my SSDI status. Will update this thread with how it goes in case it helps others in similar situations.
One last tip - when you file your weekly claims, make sure you report any SSDI payments you receive that week. Washington ESD needs to know about all income sources to calculate your benefits correctly. It's better to over-report than under-report.
UPDATE: For anyone else reading this, I used Claimyr last week to get through to Washington ESD about a different issue. Worked great and saved me hours of calling.
Bottom line - file your unemployment claim as soon as you're laid off, regardless of severance. The worst they can do is say no, and based on everyone's experiences here, they probably won't.
Connor Richards
Remember that even after your 26 weeks are up, you might be able to file a new claim if you've worked enough since your last claim. Washington ESD looks at whether you have sufficient wages in a new base period.
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Lucas Bey
•So I could potentially get unemployment again later if I work for a while and then lose another job?
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Connor Richards
•Yes, as long as you meet the wage and work requirements again. Each claim is evaluated separately based on your work history.
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Grace Durand
Just want to echo what others have said - don't wait to file! I waited two weeks thinking I'd find something quickly and lost out on those benefits forever. File immediately and you can always stop claiming if you find work right away.
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Lucas Bey
•That's exactly what I was thinking about doing. Glad I asked here first!
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Grace Durand
•Yeah, there's literally no downside to filing right away. Better to have the benefits available and not need them than the other way around.
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