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The benefit amount is just the starting point - make sure you understand all the other requirements too like reporting any work or income during weeks you claim, being available for work, etc. Missing any of those requirements can delay or stop your payments.
Yeah I've been reading about all the requirements. Seems like a lot to keep track of but I guess it makes sense they need to verify you're truly unemployed and looking for work.
One more tip - if you do any part-time or temporary work while collecting unemployment, make sure you report it properly. You can still get partial benefits but you have to report all earnings or you could get in trouble for overpayment.
They subtract your earnings from your weekly benefit amount, but there's usually a small earnings disregard so you can make a little bit without it affecting your benefits. The exact formula is on their website.
Update us on how it goes! I'm sure others in similar situations would benefit from hearing about your experience.
One more thing - if you do get approved and your employer contests it later, don't panic. The adjudication process is pretty fair and they really look at the facts. I had my employer contest my claim and Washington ESD still ruled in my favor after reviewing everything.
Update: I'm planning to call Washington ESD Monday morning to discuss this before accepting any disability payments. Thanks everyone for the guidance - this thread has been incredibly helpful in understanding my options and the potential issues.
Just to summarize for anyone else in a similar situation: 1) Report any changes to Washington ESD immediately, 2) Understand that unemployment requires being able and available for work, 3) Disability benefits are for when you cannot work, 4) These may be mutually exclusive depending on your specific medical restrictions, 5) Get official guidance before accepting any concurrent benefits.
Lucas Schmidt
Quick reminder that you need to keep doing your job search activities even if you're expecting to be called back to a previous job (unless you're on official standby status). A lot of people get confused about this requirement.
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Genevieve Cavalier
•How do you know if you qualify for standby status? Is that something you apply for separately?
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Laura Lopez
•Usually your employer has to provide documentation that you're on temporary layoff with a specific recall date. It's not something you can just claim on your own.
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Santiago Diaz
Since we're talking about getting accurate information, I'll mention again that when I needed clarification on standby vs. regular benefits, Claimyr was super helpful in getting me connected to someone at Washington ESD who could explain the difference properly. Sometimes the written information online isn't clear enough.
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Victoria Brown
•I'm starting to think I should just bite the bullet and use a service like that. I've wasted so much time trying to call them directly.
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Santiago Diaz
•Honestly, for me it was worth it just for the peace of mind. You can check out their demo video to see how it works before you decide.
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