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Another option for getting quick answers is using Claimyr when you need to talk to Washington ESD directly. I was stuck on whether my freelance work would affect my benefits and needed to speak with someone who could look at my specific situation. Way better than playing phone tag for days.
The income requirements can be tricky. You need wages in at least 2 quarters AND total wages of at least $3,850 in your base period. But there's also a second test where your wages in your highest quarter need to be at least 1.5 times your wages in another quarter. Most people meet this but it's good to know about.
Final thought - even if the process is challenging, don't let that discourage you from filing if you genuinely had good cause to quit. The benefits are there for situations exactly like yours, and Washington ESD does approve these claims when the evidence supports it.
thanks everyone for all the helpful info! this thread answered all my questions about collecting both benefits
One more tip - if you do need to contact Washington ESD about this or any other questions, that Claimyr service really does work. I was skeptical at first but it saved me hours of frustration trying to get through on the phone.
Final reminder: file your initial claim as soon as possible because benefits don't start until you file, regardless of when you became unemployed. Then stay on top of your weekly claims and job search requirements. You've got this!
AstroAlpha
Reading through this thread makes me realize I probably should have filed for unemployment when I quit my toxic job last year. I thought you couldn't get benefits if you quit voluntarily, but it sounds like there are legitimate exceptions. Too bad it's too late now.
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Connor Gallagher
•You typically have to file within a certain timeframe after becoming unemployed, but it's worth checking with Washington ESD to see if you have any options. Sometimes there are exceptions for people who didn't know they were eligible.
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AstroAlpha
•I'll look into it, thanks. I had no idea good cause quits could qualify for benefits.
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Diego Chavez
For the original poster, I'd recommend filing your claim as soon as possible even if you're not 100% sure you'll qualify. Washington ESD can take weeks to process claims and make determinations, so the sooner you start the process, the better. Worst case scenario, they deny you and you're no worse off than you are now.
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Anastasia Smirnova
•Agreed. I waited too long to file when I was laid off and missed out on weeks of potential benefits. The application process itself doesn't cost anything, so there's really no downside to applying if you think you might qualify.
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Sean O'Brien
•Just make sure you're completely honest in your application. Washington ESD will investigate thoroughly and any false information can disqualify you permanently from benefits. Better to be honest and get denied than lie and get caught later.
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