When to file for unemployment after severance ends - Washington ESD timing question

So I can file now even though I'm getting severance? I was worried they'd deny my whole claim.

Yes, absolutely file now. The severance might delay when you start receiving benefits, but it won't disqualify you entirely. Just report it accurately on your weekly claims.

Did you have any issues with the timing? I'm worried about making a mistake on the application.

No issues at all. Just be completely honest about your severance arrangement when you file. Washington ESD is used to handling these situations.

Oh wow, I didn't realize there was a waiting week. How does that work exactly?

Washington has a one-week waiting period before benefits start. If you delay filing, you're just pushing everything back further. Get your claim in ASAP.

Actually, I think Washington eliminated the waiting week during COVID and it hasn't come back yet. But still good advice to file immediately.

I actually used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual Washington ESD agent. They have this system that calls for you and connects you when someone picks up. Saved me hours of frustration.

Really? Is it legit? I'm desperate at this point - I've wasted so much time trying to call.

Yeah it's totally legitimate. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Much better than sitting on hold all day.

I looked at the website but found it confusing. It talks about 'wages in lieu of notice' - is that the same as severance?

Severance can be structured different ways. Some is considered wages, some isn't. That's why it's important to speak with Washington ESD directly about your specific situation.

It's because there are eligibility requirements and processing time needed. They have to verify your work history, wages, reason for separation, etc. All of that takes time regardless of when you can start collecting.

i guess but still seems like they could streamline it better

It's continuation of my regular salary with normal tax withholdings, paid biweekly like I was still employed. Health benefits continue too.

That type of arrangement typically delays benefit eligibility until it ends. But definitely file your claim now to get the process started.

That's reassuring to hear from someone in HR. I was overthinking this whole thing.

Agreed. I delayed filing when I got severance and it just created more confusion later. File right away and answer all questions honestly.

How much does Claimyr cost? I'm already stressed about money with being laid off.

I don't remember the exact amount but it was reasonable considering how much time it saved me. Way cheaper than taking more time off work to keep trying to call.

Good point. My last day was January 15th but severance continues until mid-February. So I should use January 15th as my separation date?

Exactly. Your claim should be effective from your actual last day of work, not when the money stops coming.

Interesting how the structure makes such a difference. Mine is definitely ongoing wages so sounds like I'll have to wait.

Yeah but still file now. The paperwork and verification process takes time anyway, so you want to get that ball rolling.

You typically don't have to meet job search requirements during weeks when you're not eligible for benefits due to severance. But once benefits start, the requirements kick in.

That makes sense. So basically the job search stuff starts when the actual benefit payments start, not when you file the claim.

12 weeks is a nice severance package though! Mine is only 8 weeks so I'm trying to make the most of the time to job search.

True, I shouldn't complain. Better than nothing for sure.

You report it on your weekly claims during the weeks you receive it. So if you get severance payments biweekly, you report it on the weekly claims for those periods.

Got it, thanks. The weekly claim process seems straightforward once you understand what to report.

Thanks for the insider perspective. I definitely want to do everything by the book to avoid problems later.

Yeah, honesty is definitely the best policy with unemployment claims. They'll figure out discrepancies eventually anyway.

I think I'm going to try it. This thread has been helpful but I still have questions about my particular severance package.

Good call. Reddit advice is great for general guidance but every severance agreement is a little different.

Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm going to file my claim today and just be completely honest about my severance situation.

Smart move. Good luck with the job search too - hopefully you'll find something before the severance even runs out.