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One more tip - if you're not sure about your wage history, you can request a wage statement from Washington ESD before your benefit year ends. It helps you know if you'll qualify for a new claim before you actually file.
This thread has been a lifesaver. I was panicking about my benefits ending but now I have a clear plan. Filing a new claim doesn't seem as scary when you know what to expect.
Make sure you understand when your benefit year ends too. You can't file a new claim until your current benefit year expires, even if you've used up all 26 weeks.
Just wanted to add that if you're in a training program approved by Washington ESD, there might be different rules about benefit duration. Worth asking about if you're considering going back to school or retraining.
Bottom line for OP - with 8 months of steady work at $22/hour, you should definitely qualify for unemployment benefits if you get laid off. Don't stress too much about the eligibility requirements.
This has been a really informative thread. I'm bookmarking it in case I ever need this information myself. The Washington ESD system seems complicated but at least the requirements are clear once you understand them.
Genevieve Cavalier
PSA: If you're approaching your 26-week limit, start planning now. Don't wait until the last minute to figure out your options. Check if you qualify for a new claim, look into other assistance programs, and consider any work opportunities even if they're not ideal.
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Daniel Price
•Good advice. I should have started looking into this sooner instead of assuming extended benefits would be available.
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Genevieve Cavalier
•Most people don't realize the pandemic programs were temporary. It's an easy mistake to make.
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Ethan Scott
One more thing - if you do qualify for a new claim, your weekly benefit amount might be different based on your recent earnings. Don't be surprised if it's lower than your current amount.
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Jayden Reed
•Mine was actually higher because I had a better paying job before my second layoff. It really depends on your work history.
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Ethan Scott
•True, it can go either way. The important thing is that you might have additional weeks of benefits available.
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