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One thing to keep in mind is that your weekly benefit amount might be different on your new claim compared to your first claim, depending on the wages in your new base period. But there's definitely no waiting period to worry about.
Bottom line: File immediately, no waiting period required. I learned this the hard way by waiting 2 weeks thinking I had to, and that was 2 weeks of benefits I lost out on.
Just wanted to add that claimyr thing really does work. Used it last month when I had a payment issue and actually got through to someone within an hour instead of calling for days. Worth checking out if you ever need to talk to Washington ESD.
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.
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.
I used that Claimyr service mentioned earlier when I had questions about my standby claim. Really wish I had known about it sooner - would have saved me weeks of trying to get through on the phone. Definitely recommend if you need to talk to ESD directly about your misconduct case.
Thanks for asking this question OP! I'm in a similar situation (got fired for performance issues) and this thread has been super helpful for understanding how ESD handles these cases. Going to file my claim this week.
Hazel Garcia
honestly the hardest part is just getting started. once you submit that first application and get into the routine of filing weekly claims its pretty manageable. just dont procrastinate on applying - every week you wait is money you're losing
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Annabel Kimball
•You're right, I need to stop overthinking it and just do it. Going to start gathering my documents tonight and apply tomorrow.
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Hazel Garcia
•thats the spirit! you'll probably find its not as scary as it seems once you get into it
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Myles Regis
If your claim gets approved, your weekly benefit amount will be based on your earnings during your base year (usually the first 4 of the last 5 quarters). Washington ESD will calculate this automatically but it's good to understand how it works. Higher past earnings = higher weekly benefits, up to the state maximum.
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Annabel Kimball
•Is there a way to estimate what my weekly benefit might be before I apply?
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Myles Regis
•There are calculators online but they're just estimates. Washington ESD will give you the official amount in your determination letter after you apply.
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