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Make sure you file as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. There's no waiting period in Washington for the first week, and you can't get benefits for weeks before you file your initial claim.
One last thing - make sure all your employers from the base period are listed correctly on your claim. If Washington ESD is missing wages from an employer, it will lower your benefit calculation.
Good luck! The unemployment benefits helped me get through a tough period after my layoff. It's not a lot of money but it definitely helps cover the basics while you look for work. Just remember it's temporary so keep focused on finding your next job.
Last piece of advice - if you get a job offer while collecting unemployment, take it even if it's not perfect. You can always keep looking for something better, but turning down suitable work can disqualify you from benefits.
I was shocked to learn that if you're receiving a pension from your last employer, it might reduce your unemployment benefits. Washington ESD deducts the pension amount from your weekly benefit. In some cases, it can make you ineligible entirely.
If you're incarcerated, you obviously can't collect unemployment benefits. Some people don't realize this also applies to being in a treatment facility if it's court-ordered or if you can't leave to look for work.
If you do end up needing to call Washington ESD for any reason and can't get through, that Claimyr service is legit. I was skeptical at first but it actually got me connected to an agent when I needed help with my claim status. Their demo video explains how it works if you want to check it out first.
Bottom line - with your current earnings you'll probably get the minimum benefit of $295/week if you qualify. Not great but it's something while you look for another job. Just make sure you understand all the requirements before you file.
Emma Thompson
Just want to echo what others have said - be completely honest about your income. I reported everything, even small odd jobs, and never had any problems with Washington ESD. The system actually works pretty well if you follow the rules.
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Mei Chen
•That's reassuring. I was worried it would be more complicated than it actually is.
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Emma Thompson
•It seems complicated at first but once you do it a few times it becomes routine. Just always err on the side of reporting too much rather than too little.
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Malik Davis
For what it's worth, I think the $5 deduction they give you is supposed to cover work-related expenses like gas or tools. So if you make $100 in a week, they only count $95 against your benefits. It's a small thing but every bit helps.
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CosmicCadet
•That's correct. The $5 is a standard deduction they apply to all work income to account for work expenses.
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Mei Chen
•Makes sense. Every little bit does help when you're trying to make ends meet.
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