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Drug testing can also be an issue in some cases. If you're fired for failing a drug test, that's usually considered misconduct. And if you're required to participate in drug testing as part of your job search and refuse, that could disqualify you too.
This is all so overwhelming! I wish Washington ESD was clearer about all these rules upfront instead of people finding out after they get disqualified.
Definitely appeal if you think it's wrong. I got my disqualification overturned after providing more documentation. The appeal process exists for a reason.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful info. Sounds like the main thing is having wages in at least 2 quarters of your base period and meeting the minimum dollar amounts. Good to know about the alternate base period option too.
One more thing - if you're close to the $7,000 minimum, double-check that all your employers reported your wages correctly. Sometimes there are delays or errors that could affect your eligibility.
Yes, you can view your quarterly wage reports there. If something looks wrong, contact the employer or Washington ESD to get it corrected.
That's another good reason to use Claimyr if you need to talk to Washington ESD about wage discrepancies. Much easier than trying to explain complex issues through their online messaging system.
Bottom line: $7,000 minimum in your base period, wages in at least 2 quarters, and your total base period wages need to be 1.25x your highest quarter. If you meet all three, you're good to go. Don't overthink it!
Been following this thread and it's been super helpful. I'm in a similar situation where my department got eliminated. Sounds like as long as I have documentation and the employer doesn't contest it, should be smooth sailing with Washington ESD.
Final thought - if you do run into any issues or need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your involuntary unemployment determination, that Claimyr service people mentioned actually works. Used it myself when I had questions about my claim status and got through way faster than calling directly.
Keisha Williams
Final tip: keep records of everything - when you filed, confirmation numbers, any correspondence from Washington ESD. You'll need this information for reference and it helps if any issues come up later.
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NebulaNova
•Great advice, I'll start a folder for all the unemployment paperwork
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Anastasia Fedorov
•Screenshots of everything too, sometimes their system glitches and you need proof of what you submitted
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StarStrider
I waited 4 days after my layoff because I was embarrassed about filing for unemployment. Wish I had filed immediately - those 4 days of benefits would have helped with groceries. Don't let pride get in the way of getting help you've earned.
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NebulaNova
•Thanks for sharing that. I was feeling a bit embarrassed too but you're right, I paid into this system.
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Sean Doyle
•unemployment insurance is exactly that - insurance you paid for through your work. no shame in using it when you need it
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