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For what it's worth, I had to call Washington ESD multiple times during my claim to understand the benefit duration rules. Using Claimyr made those calls so much easier - no more sitting on hold for hours just to ask a simple question about my remaining weeks.
I keep seeing Claimyr mentioned. Do they actually work with Washington ESD specifically or is it a general service?
Bottom line - plan for 26 weeks max unless extended benefits kick in, which isn't guaranteed. Use your time wisely and don't count on extensions to save you.
Final thought - document everything as you go through this process. If you do find work later and something happens again, you'll have a better roadmap of resources and contacts.
Thank you everyone for all the suggestions. I have a lot of leads to follow up on now. I'll try the Claimyr service first to make sure I haven't missed anything with Washington ESD, then start exploring the other programs people mentioned. This thread has been incredibly helpful.
Been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks to clarify some tax withholding questions and finally got through using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Took about 15 minutes to connect me to an actual person who answered all my questions.
The bottom line is unemployment benefits are taxed just like regular wages. If you normally have taxes withheld from your paycheck, you should probably have them withheld from unemployment too. Better safe than sorry at tax time.
My appeal took 11 weeks total from filing to final decision. Hearing was scheduled at week 7, held at week 9, decision at week 11.
Check if your case qualifies for an expedited hearing due to financial hardship. Worth asking about when you finally get through to someone.
You need to contact the appeals office directly and explain your circumstances. They'll review it on a case by case basis.
This is another situation where Claimyr could help you get through to make that request.
Ella Thompson
Been on UI three different times over the past decade. Each time it's been exactly 26 weeks unless there were federal extensions (which there aren't right now). The amount you get per week varies based on your wages, but the duration is standard. Just make sure you don't miss any weekly claims or job search requirements.
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JacksonHarris
•Three times? That's rough. How do you handle the stress of knowing there's a hard cutoff at 26 weeks?
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Ella Thompson
•You just have to treat job searching like a full-time job. Apply everywhere, network constantly, and have backup plans. The 26-week deadline keeps you motivated.
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Jeremiah Brown
Quick question - does anyone know if vacation pay affects the 26-week duration? I'm getting paid out for 3 weeks of unused vacation time.
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Jeremiah Brown
•Thanks! So I'll still get the full 26 weeks, just starting later?
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Dominic Green
•Correct. The vacation pay disqualification doesn't reduce your total available benefits.
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