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The uncertainty is the worst part. I refreshed my account like 50 times a day when I was waiting. Try to stay busy with job applications if you can.
UPDATE: Just wanted to thank everyone for the advice. Got my determination letter today (day 19) and was approved! Benefits start next week. To the others still waiting - hang in there, it really does come through eventually.
If you do apply and get approved, make sure you understand the job search requirements. In Washington you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep detailed records. They can audit your search activities.
Based on what you've described - part-time work for 8 months earning $850/month, laid off due to store closure - you very likely qualify for unemployment benefits. I'd recommend applying as soon as possible since there can be delays in processing claims right now.
One more thing - if you're a new employer, your first few Form 940s might be a bit different because Washington ESD assigns new employer rates differently than established businesses with experience ratings.
This is a pretty new business, so that's good to know. I'll make sure they understand how the new employer rates work.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses! Sounds like Form 940 is definitely what we need for the federal side. Now we just need to make sure we're staying compliant with Washington ESD requirements too.
And don't hesitate to reach out for help if you get stuck. Whether it's calling Washington ESD directly or using a service like Claimyr to get through, it's better to ask questions than make costly mistakes.
This thread has been super helpful! I was dreading trying to figure all this out on my own. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences.
One last tip - if you're eligible for the Trade Adjustment Assistance program, you might be able to get additional benefits beyond the regular unemployment amount. Worth looking into if you lost your job due to foreign trade.
Declan Ramirez
Just remember you have to be actively looking for work and available to accept suitable employment. The job search requirement isn't just busywork - they really do check on it sometimes.
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Emma Morales
•What counts as 'suitable employment'? Can they make you take any job?
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Declan Ramirez
•Generally has to be in your field or pay at least 80% of your previous wage, but the standards get looser the longer you're unemployed.
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Katherine Hunter
Bottom line OP - with your salary you'll probably get $700-900/week for up to 26 weeks. Definitely worth filing if you qualify. Just be prepared for the bureaucracy and phone system frustrations.
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Evelyn Rivera
•Thanks everyone for all the info! Sounds like I should definitely file. Now I just need to figure out how to actually get through to them...
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Lucas Parker
•Good luck! And seriously consider that Claimyr thing if you get stuck trying to reach them. Wish I had known about it sooner.
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