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The waiting week can be confusing for first-time filers. You still need to file your weekly claim during the waiting week, but you won't receive benefits for that week unless you have a qualifying separation.
To summarize for the original poster: File your claim immediately, register with WorkSourceWA, start your job search right away, and be prepared to provide documentation about your separation and identity. The Washington ESD system will determine your eligibility based on your work history and the reason for separation.
Bottom line - performance terminations usually qualify for unemployment unless there was misconduct. File your claim and let Washington ESD make the determination rather than guessing.
One last tip - when you file, be thorough but honest about what happened. Don't downplay the performance issues but make it clear there was no misconduct or willful violation of policies.
Honestly the Washington ESD website is pretty user-friendly compared to other states I've dealt with. The hardest part is just getting someone on the phone when you have questions. That's where services like Claimyr really help - they handle the phone maze for you.
Don't stress too much about the process. Thousands of people file claims every week and most go through without major problems. Just follow the instructions, file your weekly claims on time, and keep looking for work. You've got this!
Jace Caspullo
honestly the whole unemployment system is confusing but at least washington esd pays pretty well compared to other states. just focus on filing your weekly claims correctly and the amount will sort itself out
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Norah Quay
•True, I should probably stop overthinking it and just make sure I'm filing everything correctly.
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Melody Miles
•Yeah, and if there is an error, Washington ESD will usually catch it eventually and make adjustments.
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Nathaniel Mikhaylov
If you're still confused after checking your monetary determination, I'd recommend using a service like Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD. Having an agent explain your specific benefit calculation can clear up a lot of confusion.
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Norah Quay
•Thanks for the suggestion! Several people have mentioned that service now. I think I'll give it a try.
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Eva St. Cyr
•It's definitely worth it for the peace of mind. Unemployment can be stressful enough without worrying about whether you're getting the right amount.
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