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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.
Just wanted to add that military members have special rules for unemployment benefits. If you're transitioning out of the military, you might be eligible for Unemployment Compensation for Ex-servicemembers (UCX). The timing and requirements are different from regular unemployment.
One last tip - even if your employer offers severance pay, you can usually still file for unemployment benefits. Severance might affect the timing of when benefits start, but it doesn't automatically disqualify you. Check with Washington ESD about how severance impacts your specific situation.
It depends on how the severance is structured. Some types delay benefits, others don't. Claimyr might be helpful for getting a definitive answer about your specific severance situation.
One more tip - when they ask about your separation reason, be specific but concise. 'Terminated for alleged performance issues following safety complaint' is better than a long emotional explanation.
If you need to reach someone at Washington ESD about your claim and can't get through on the phone, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier actually works. I was skeptical at first but it saved me from weeks of calling. Worth looking into if you run into issues.
For what it's worth, I used Claimyr twice - once to ask about Social Security and unemployment, and again when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Both times they got me through to helpful agents who resolved my issues quickly.
Bottom line - yes you can collect both, but make sure you're meeting all the unemployment requirements. Age discrimination is real but don't let that stop you from claiming benefits you've earned.
Lucas Adams
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.
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Margot Quinn
•Several people have mentioned it now, seems legit. Good to have options when the phone system is so bad.
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Harper Hill
•The regular Washington ESD phone system is absolutely terrible. Anything that helps get through is worth it.
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Caden Nguyen
Bottom line: Tuesday mornings, usually between 6-9 AM. If it's not there by Wednesday evening, then start worrying and maybe call. But 95% of the time it's just Tuesday like clockwork.
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Margot Quinn
•Perfect summary! Tuesday morning it is. Thanks everyone for all the help and insights!
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