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Ask the community...

  • DO post questions about your issues.
  • DO answer questions and support each other.
  • DO post tips & tricks to help folks.
  • DO NOT post call problems here - there is a support tab at the top for that :)

Mason Kaczka

How to get unemployment money in Washington - complete beginner here

I just lost my job last week and I'm completely lost on how to get unemployment money. I've never filed for unemployment before and I have no idea where to start. Do I need to go somewhere in person? Is there paperwork? How long does it take to get approved? I'm really stressed about paying my rent next month and could use some guidance on the whole process.

The whole process seems overwhelming at first but it's really not that bad once you get started. Just take it step by step and don't stress too much about making it perfect.

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Thanks for the encouragement! I'm going to start the application tonight.

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You got this! Thousands of people go through this process every week. It's designed to help you.

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One last thing - keep records of everything! Save copies of your application, print out confirmation pages, and keep track of all your job search activities. You never know when you might need to reference something.

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Good advice. I'll start a folder for all my unemployment paperwork.

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Smart move. Organization will save you headaches down the road if any issues come up.

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Matthew Sanchez

Washington ESD unemployment if I get fired - what are my options?

I'm really worried about my job situation right now. My supervisor has been giving me write-ups for things that seem minor and I'm afraid I might get terminated soon. If I do get fired from my job, can I still file for Washington ESD unemployment benefits? I've heard conflicting information about whether you can get UI if you're fired versus if you quit. I've been working at this company for about 2 years and haven't had any major issues before this new manager started. Just want to know what my rights are if the worst happens.

THE SYSTEM IS BROKEN! I've been waiting 6 weeks for my determination and can't get anyone on the phone to help. How are people supposed to survive like this???

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I feel your frustration. That's exactly the situation where Claimyr helped me - when the regular system just wasn't working. Sometimes you need an alternative way to get through.

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Hang in there. The wait is awful but most people do eventually get their claims processed.

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If you get fired, file online immediately at esd.wa.gov. Don't delay thinking about whether you qualify - let Washington ESD make that determination. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start the process.

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Will do. Thanks for all the advice everyone. This has been really helpful.

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Jayden Reed

Can you still get Washington ESD unemployment if you were fired from your job?

I got terminated from my warehouse job last Friday for what they called 'performance issues' but honestly I think it was unfair. My supervisor never gave me proper training and kept changing my schedule without notice. Now I'm wondering if I can even apply for unemployment benefits through Washington ESD since I was fired instead of laid off. Does anyone know if being fired automatically disqualifies you from getting UI benefits? I really need the income while I look for another job.

I've helped several friends through this process and most people who were fired for performance issues (rather than misconduct) end up getting approved. The adjudication process can be stressful but it's usually fair. Just be patient and honest.

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Thank you! All these responses are giving me hope that I might actually qualify.

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You're welcome! Sounds like you're in a similar situation to others I've seen get approved. Good luck with your application!

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Quick tip - when you file your claim, there's a section where you can explain the circumstances of your job separation. Use that space to clearly explain the lack of training and unrealistic expectations. That information goes directly to the adjudicator who reviews your case.

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Perfect! I'll make sure to be detailed in that section. This whole thread has been incredibly helpful.

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Glad to help! Remember, the more context you provide about why the termination wasn't your fault, the better your chances.

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StarSailor

Can you file unemployment a different way besides online - Washington ESD alternatives?

I've been trying to file my initial unemployment claim through the Washington ESD website for over a week now and keep running into technical errors. The site keeps timing out or giving me error messages when I try to submit my application. I'm getting really frustrated because I need to get this filed ASAP since I was laid off two weeks ago. Are there other ways to file unemployment claims in Washington besides going through the online portal? Can you still file by phone or in person? I'm worried about missing deadlines and losing benefits because of these website issues.

Try clearing your browser cache and cookies completely, then restart your browser before attempting to file again. Sometimes old session data causes conflicts with the Washington ESD site.

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I'll try that tonight and then attempt filing again tomorrow morning. Thanks for all the helpful suggestions everyone!

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Good luck! Let us know how it goes - your experience might help other people having similar issues.

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One more thing - make sure you have a stable internet connection when you try to file. Wifi drops or slow connections can cause the site to time out and lose your progress.

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Good point! I'll make sure I'm using ethernet instead of wifi for better stability.

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Jeremiah Brown

Can unemployment be extended - Washington ESD benefit duration questions

I'm getting close to the end of my regular unemployment benefits and wondering if there are any extensions available through Washington ESD? I've been collecting UI for about 22 weeks now and I think I only have a couple weeks left. My job search is going okay but I haven't found anything yet. Does anyone know if Washington ESD has any programs to extend benefits beyond the standard 26 weeks? I'm really worried about what happens when my benefits run out.

Check if your county has any local assistance programs too. Some counties have emergency rent/utility assistance even if you don't qualify for other state programs.

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That's a good idea. I'll look into what King County has available.

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Also check with 211 - they have info on all kinds of local assistance programs you might not know about.

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I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier when I had issues with my claim being stuck in adjudication. Really helped me get through to someone at Washington ESD who could actually resolve my problem instead of just giving me the runaround.

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How much does it cost to use Claimyr?

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I'm not sure about specific pricing but it was worth it for me given how much time I was wasting trying to call on my own. Check their website for current rates.

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