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Don't forget that if you do any part-time work while collecting unemployment, you need to report it. It might reduce your weekly benefit but you can still get partial benefits.
The key thing is to file your claim as soon as possible after losing your job. There's a waiting week but the sooner you file, the sooner you can start the process.
One last tip - if you do end up needing to contact Washington ESD about anything, try to call right when they open at 8am or during lunch time around noon. Those seem to be the best times to actually get through to someone.
I've tried both those times and still couldn't get through. The phone system is just overwhelmed. That's why services like Claimyr exist - they basically do the calling for you.
Bottom line for OP: with 3 years at your previous job plus 2 months at your current job, you'd definitely meet the earnings requirements for unemployment if you got laid off. The key is just making sure you file right away and stay on top of your weekly claims.
I know someone who got an overpayment notice reversed by using that Claimyr service to reach an agent who actually reviewed their case properly. Sometimes it's just a matter of getting someone competent to look at your file.
Bottom line - report everything accurately and keep records of what you report. If you still get an overpayment notice, appeal it if you think it's wrong. Don't just accept it.
The most important thing is to keep filing your weekly claims every week and keep doing your job searches. Even if you're getting close to 26 weeks, don't stop filing until you're officially notified that your benefits are exhausted.
just hit my 26 week limit last month and benefits stopped automatically. Washington ESD sent me a notice explaining that I'd exhausted my benefits for this benefit year. no extensions available right now like others said
Oscar O'Neil
Just to add another success story - I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned when my claim got stuck and they helped me get through to resolve an issue with my employer separation information. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person.
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Ethan Scott
•That's reassuring to know there are options if I run into problems.
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Sara Hellquiem
Final reminder - be 100% honest on your application. Unemployment fraud penalties are serious and not worth the risk. Answer all questions truthfully even if you think it might hurt your chances.
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Ethan Scott
•Absolutely. I want to do this the right way from the start. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice!
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