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Another thing to check - if you received any severance pay or vacation payout when you were laid off, that might affect when your unemployment benefits start or how they're calculated.
Has anyone had success appealing their benefit calculation? Mine seems way too low based on what I was earning but I don't know if it's worth the hassle to appeal.
I didn't appeal but I did get mine corrected when I provided additional wage documentation. If you think there's an error it's definitely worth pursuing.
Before appealing, I'd suggest calling Washington ESD to understand exactly how they calculated your benefits. That's where Claimyr really helped me - I was able to get a detailed explanation of my calculation and it turned out to be correct.
The approval process has gotten more efficient over the years but there are still delays sometimes. If you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD and can't get through, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier might be worth looking into. I used it when I had a complex situation and needed to speak with an actual person.
I might need that if I run into issues. Good to know there's an option to actually talk to someone without spending all day on hold.
Bottom line: be honest, file quickly, keep good records, and don't panic if there are delays. The system works but it takes patience. Most people who qualify do get approved eventually.
Try calling multiple numbers at the same time if you have access to different phones. I use my cell phone and landline simultaneously to double my chances.
Honestly at this point I'm considering that Claimyr service too. I've wasted so many hours trying to call that it would probably save me time and stress in the long run.
Jenna Sloan
The determination letter will be very clear about whether you're approved or denied. It's usually 2-3 pages and explains everything in detail including your weekly benefit amount if approved.
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Amy Fleming
•Good to know what to expect. I'll stop worrying until I actually get that letter.
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Alice Pierce
Just to summarize for the OP - determination pending means still processing, not denied. Keep filing weekly claims, watch for mail, and if you need immediate answers, consider using a service like Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD faster than trying to call on your own.
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Amy Fleming
•Perfect summary, thank you! I feel much better about the situation now.
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