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Another thing - make sure your Social Security earnings record matches what Washington ESD has. Sometimes there are discrepancies that can affect your benefit calculation. You can check your SS earnings online at ssa.gov.
Original poster - sounds like your $487 weekly amount is probably correct based on what others are saying. If you're still concerned, definitely verify it against your actual quarterly wages from 2024. But mathematically it seems to line up with your $52k annual salary.
Thanks everyone for all the explanations! I feel much better about understanding how it works now. Going to double-check my quarterly wages just to be sure but it sounds like the calculation is probably right.
Bottom line is you need to have worked and earned wages since your original claim to qualify for a new one. If you haven't, you'll need to find work first before you can get benefits again.
The biggest thing to remember is that you have to be totally honest on your application. Washington ESD cross-checks everything and if they find any discrepancies, they'll investigate and potentially disqualify you. It's not worth lying about your work history or reason for separation.
Also don't forget that if you do qualify, you'll need to register with WorkSource Washington and might need to participate in reemployment services. It's not just about collecting benefits - there are ongoing requirements you have to meet to keep getting paid.
It can be job search workshops, career counseling, skills assessments, or training programs. Not everyone has to do it, but if you're selected, it's mandatory to keep your benefits.
One more tip - if you think there's an error in your wage records or calculation, don't wait to address it. There are time limits on when you can request corrections, and it's much easier to fix early in your claim than later.
Yara Khoury
The most important thing is being completely honest about everything. Washington ESD will find out the truth anyway when they verify with employers, so don't try to hide anything or embellish. Better to be upfront from the start.
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Keisha Taylor
•Exactly. Lying can get you disqualified permanently, not worth the risk
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Zoe Dimitriou
•Plus if you're honest about issues upfront, they can often work with you to resolve them
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StardustSeeker
Last tip - screenshot or print everything after you file. Confirmation numbers, reference numbers, everything. Washington ESD's system can be glitchy and having proof of what you submitted helps if there are problems later.
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Paolo Marino
•Yes! I learned this lesson when my initial claim disappeared from their system somehow
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Amina Bah
•Document everything is always good advice when dealing with any government agency
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