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Quick reminder that if you're getting close to exhausting your benefits, you might want to consider temporary or contract work to bridge the gap. Even if it's not your ideal job, it can help while you continue searching for something permanent.
Bottom line: 26 weeks maximum for regular Washington ESD unemployment benefits. No current extensions available. Make the most of your time and don't wait until the last minute to get serious about your job search. Good luck to everyone dealing with unemployment right now!
Bottom line - if you're working reduced hours and struggling financially, definitely apply for partial unemployment. The worst case scenario is they say no, but you might be surprised at how much it helps.
One last thing - make sure you understand how holidays and vacation pay affect your partial benefits. That can get confusing if you're not prepared for it.
Just want to add that the benefit amount also depends on whether you're on regular UI or if you qualify for any extended benefits. Most people start with regular unemployment which lasts up to 26 weeks in Washington state.
One more thing to keep in mind - your benefit amount is taxable income so you might want to have taxes withheld or set aside money for tax season. Washington ESD gives you the option to have federal taxes taken out automatically.
just remember that every week you don't file is money you're leaving on the table. These benefits are there to help you while you're between jobs - use them!
Bottom line: File every single week, on time, with accurate information. Set reminders, keep records of your job search activities, and report any work or income honestly. It becomes routine after a few weeks.
Good luck! And remember if you run into any issues with Washington ESD that require talking to an agent, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier can save you hours of frustration trying to get through on the phone.
Diego Rojas
The key thing is just to be completely honest on all your weekly claims and report any changes immediately. Most disqualifications happen because people either don't understand the rules or try to hide something. When in doubt, report it and let them decide.
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Connor O'Neill
•That's probably the safest approach. Better to over-report than under-report and risk problems later.
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Diego Rojas
•Exactly. Washington ESD would rather you ask questions upfront than discover issues during an audit or investigation.
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Anastasia Sokolov
Also remember that even if you get disqualified, it might not be permanent. Some disqualifications are just for a certain number of weeks, others require you to work and earn a certain amount before you can requalify. Read the notice carefully to understand what you need to do.
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Connor O'Neill
•Thanks everyone for all this information! I feel much better prepared now to avoid any issues with my claim.
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Anastasia Sokolov
•Good luck with your claim! Just stay on top of the requirements and you should be fine.
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