How long after Washington ESD phone interview will I receive benefits?

That's frustrating! Did they at least tell you what they were looking for or how they make the decision?

They said they need to review all the documentation from both me and my former employer before making a determination. Apparently my employer submitted additional info after I did my interview.

Mine was a voluntary quit situation but I had good cause due to unsafe working conditions. Hopefully that doesn't complicate things too much.

Good cause quits can take a bit longer since they need to verify your documentation about the unsafe conditions. Make sure you have everything well documented.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash waiting for my benefits.

I found it worth it considering I was spending hours every day trying to get through. Way less stressful than the constant busy signals and disconnections.

Interesting, I might try that. I've been calling the 833 number every morning for weeks with no luck getting through.

Thanks! I've been keeping up with my weekly claims just in case. Should I be doing anything else while I wait?

Just keep documenting your job search activities and stay available for work. The waiting period is frustrating but try to stay patient.

I feel you! The stress of not knowing when money will come in is killing me. Have you tried calling to check on the status?

tried calling like 50 times, always busy signal or they hang up on me after an hour on hold. this system is broken

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr - I was in the same boat with the constant busy signals. Made all the difference in actually reaching someone.

Yeah they made that pretty clear during my interview. Said they have to be impartial and follow the rules exactly.

That makes sense, just wish the process was faster when people are struggling financially.

That gives me hope! What was your situation if you don't mind me asking?

Reduction in hours that made my job not viable anymore. Pretty straightforward case compared to some of the complex separation issues they deal with.

Lucky! Mine is more complicated with potential misconduct allegations from my employer so probably taking longer.

I hadn't thought of it that way. You're right, at least things are moving forward now.

I guess but this final stretch feels like forever when you have no income coming in

Good point! I just double-checked and everything looks current. Thanks for the reminder.

Yes! And answer unknown numbers during business hours - they sometimes call from different numbers than the main line.

That's encouraging! I tried to be as thorough as possible with my answers and documentation.

Honesty is definitely the best policy with these interviews. They can usually tell if you're not being straightforward.

Glad you were able to get an update! That's more than I've been able to find out. Maybe I should try that service too.

Yeah it was worth it just for the peace of mind knowing where things stand. The not knowing is the hardest part.

That timeline sounds about right based on what others are saying. Guess I just need to be patient a bit longer.

Being backed up is an understatement! This whole system needs more staff and better technology.

Yes I've been staying on top of that! Thanks for the reminder though, it's important.

This is so important! I know someone who stopped filing and lost 3 weeks of back pay when they were finally approved.

Thanks for the encouragement! I'm trying to use this time productively with my job search.

Good attitude! And if you do get approved, that back pay will be a nice chunk of money all at once.

They asked me about the circumstances of my separation, whether I looked for other options before quitting, and wanted details about the unsafe conditions I mentioned in my initial claim.

They'll ask about the specific reason you're no longer working, any efforts to resolve issues with your employer, and whether you were available and looking for work. Just be honest and stick to the facts.

I've been checking obsessively! Nothing new yet but I'll keep watching for it.

Same here, checking multiple times a day. The anticipation is killing me!

Congratulations! That gives me so much hope. I'm at day 8 since my interview so hopefully soon for me too.

lucky!! still waiting over here but happy for you

That's awesome news! Thanks for sharing the timeline, it helps us know what to expect.