
Washington Unemployment
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Ask the community...
Got terminated from my job last week and wondering if I can still file for unemployment benefits with Washington ESD. My supervisor said it was due to 'performance issues' but honestly I think they just wanted to cut costs. I've been working there for almost 2 years and never had any formal write-ups or warnings. Can you still get UI benefits if you get fired? What does Washington ESD consider when they review these cases?
I just got laid off from my warehouse job and I'm trying to understand how unemployment benefits actually work. Like who pays for these benefits? Is it coming from taxes I paid or does my employer pay into it? I'm confused about the whole system and want to make sure I understand before I file with Washington ESD. Also wondering if there's a limit to how much I can get or how long it lasts?
Just remember that collecting unemployment benefits doesn't hurt your future job prospects. Employers understand that layoffs happen and using the safety net doesn't reflect poorly on you as a worker.
The key takeaway is that unemployment insurance is employer-funded, provides temporary income replacement based on your wages, and requires you to actively look for work. Washington ESD administers the program and you can collect benefits for up to 26 weeks if you qualify. File as soon as possible after job loss and keep good records of your work search activities.
I'm getting conflicting information about part-time work while collecting unemployment in Washington. My friend said I can work up to 20 hours without losing benefits, but someone else told me it's about earnings not hours. I found a part-time job that's 15 hours a week at $18/hour but I'm scared to take it if it'll mess up my UI claim. Does anyone know the actual rules for working while on unemployment? I don't want to get an overpayment notice later.
Just remember that earning something is better than earning nothing. Even if your unemployment gets reduced, you're still bringing in more total income than just sitting on benefits alone. Plus you're gaining work experience.
Make sure your part-time employer knows you're on unemployment. Some employers are understanding and might be flexible with scheduling while you continue job searching for full-time work.
I'm about to file for unemployment and trying to figure out my weekly benefit amount. I was making $48,000 a year at my last job before getting laid off. Does anyone know how Washington ESD calculates the benefit amount? I've heard different things from people and want to know what to expect.
Remember you can work part-time while on unemployment but they'll reduce your benefits based on what you earn. There's a formula for that too but basically you can earn up to your weekly benefit amount before they start deducting.
The whole unemployment system seems complicated but once you get into the routine it's pretty manageable. File your weekly claims, do your job searches, and keep good records of everything.
I finally got a permanent job offer and I'm supposed to start Monday but I have no idea how to properly close out my unemployment claim with Washington ESD. Do I just stop filing weekly claims or is there something specific I need to do? I don't want to mess this up and accidentally create problems later. My last weekly claim was filed yesterday and I'm worried about what happens if I don't officially notify them somehow.
Hunter Hampton
Good luck with your claim! Being fired doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits. Washington ESD looks at the specific circumstances of each case.
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Molly Hansen
AuthorThanks everyone for all the helpful information. I feel much better about my chances now.
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Sofia Peña
One last tip - if you do get denied initially, you can appeal the decision. Don't give up if the first determination doesn't go your way.
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Molly Hansen
AuthorHow long do you have to file an appeal if needed?
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Sofia Peña
You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal with Washington ESD.
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