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Let us know how it goes! These account lockout situations are always stressful but usually there's a solution once you find the right approach.
Quick reminder - even if your account is locked, make sure you're still doing your required job search activities. You'll need to report those once you regain access, and Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time.
For what it's worth, I managed to find a job in week 22 of my benefits. Was getting really stressed about running out of time but it worked out. Don't give up hope if you're getting close to the end.
Just want to add that if you're on standby status (like temporary layoff expecting to return to work), the rules might be different. Worth checking with ESD if that applies to your situation.
Don't forget to factor in your part-time work if you get any while on unemployment. They'll reduce your weekly benefit amount based on how much you earn, but you can still receive some benefits as long as you're under certain thresholds.
The whole process seems overwhelming but once you get your first payment it gets easier. Just make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week and keep looking for work. The money helps bridge the gap while you find your next job.
The good news is that employer contests fail more often than they succeed, especially when the separation was really about retaliation rather than legitimate performance issues. Stay organized and stick to the facts.
One last thing - if you end up having to appeal after the initial determination, don't panic. The appeal process gives you another chance to present your case, sometimes with even more thorough review.
Appeals can actually work in your favor because you get more time to prepare and present evidence. And services like Claimyr can help you stay in contact with Washington ESD throughout the process if you need updates on your appeal status.
Ryan Kim
Structural unemployment is definitely the hardest type to deal with because it's not just waiting for the economy to improve. You literally have to rebuild your skillset. Washington ESD programs can help but you have to be proactive about it.
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Sophia Rodriguez
•Being proactive is hard when you can't get through to anyone! But I'm going to keep trying.
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Zoe Walker
•Don't give up. I was in structural unemployment for over a year but the retraining program completely changed my career trajectory. Now I'm in a growing field instead of a dying one.
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Elijah Brown
the different unemployment types are confusing but structural is definitely when your skills don't match what's available. it's not your fault the economy changed but you do have to adapt. washington esd should help but their system is overwhelmed
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Sophia Rodriguez
•Yeah it's not anyone's fault but we still have to deal with it. Thanks for the perspective.
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Maria Gonzalez
•The overwhelmed system is why services like Claimyr exist. Sometimes you need help just getting through to the right person at Washington ESD.
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