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One last tip - if you're married and file jointly, the unemployment income could push you into a higher tax bracket. Something to consider when planning.
For anyone else reading this thread, the key thing is just to start filing as soon as you're approved. Don't overthink it - the questions are straightforward and you can always call if you make a mistake (though good luck getting through). The important thing is establishing the habit of filing every week.
One more Claimyr mention since people are asking about getting help - I used them when I had questions about reporting part-time work on my weekly claims. The Washington ESD agent they connected me with was really helpful and explained exactly how to report my hours. Definitely worth it if you need to talk to someone and can't get through the regular phone lines.
If you're still feeling uncertain, you could always try calling Washington ESD directly to confirm your claim status. I know the wait times can be brutal, but sometimes it's worth it for peace of mind. Or like others mentioned, there are services that can help you get connected faster.
I might try that Claimyr thing if I run into any issues. For now, it sounds like I'm doing everything correctly.
Bottom line - yes, you can still collect unemployment in Washington. The regular UI program never stopped, just the pandemic programs ended. Keep filing your weekly claims, do your job searches, and you should be fine. Don't overthink it!
For everyone waiting - I know it's stressful but try to stay patient. Washington ESD is actually pretty good about backdating payments to when you first filed, so you won't lose money for the waiting period (except for the one waiting week).
Update us when you hear something! It's helpful for others to know real timelines from recent claims.
Fiona Sand
Just wanted to add that if you were part of a mass layoff or plant closure, there might be additional resources available through the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) program. Worth checking into if that applies to your situation.
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Tristan Carpenter
•How do I know if my company filed a WARN notice? Would they have told us?
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Fiona Sand
•Companies are supposed to give 60 days notice for mass layoffs, but you can also check Washington State's WARN database online to see if your employer filed one.
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Mohammad Khaled
Last bit of advice - don't let the process stress you out too much. Yes, there are rules to follow and forms to fill out, but thousands of people go through this every week. Washington ESD has gotten pretty good at processing claims efficiently, especially compared to how backed up they were during COVID. You've got this!
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Alina Rosenthal
•That's smart - don't put it off. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can start receiving benefits.
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Finnegan Gunn
•Remember, even if there are delays or complications, you'll get backpay for any weeks you were eligible. So don't stress if the process takes longer than expected.
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