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Just make sure you file your claim as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. The benefit amount won't change based on when you file, but you can't get payments for weeks before you actually filed your claim.
One last thing - keep all your employment records handy in case there are any issues with your wage calculation. Pay stubs, tax forms, anything that shows your earnings. Washington ESD might need additional documentation if there are discrepancies.
Just wanted to add that when you do turn 18 and if you need to file, make sure you have all your employment records organized. Having your pay stubs and tax forms ready will make the process much smoother.
I remember being frustrated by this same rule when I was younger. But looking back, having that work experience on your record when you turn 18 is actually valuable - shows you have a strong work ethic.
One thing that tripped me up - if you do any part-time work while collecting, you have to report it on your weekly claim. They'll reduce your benefit but you won't lose it entirely if it's under a certain amount.
Make sure you keep good records of everything - your job search activities, any contact with Washington ESD, important dates, etc. It can really help if you ever need to appeal something or answer questions about your claim.
Overall sounds like you probably qualify based on what you described. The part-time thing isn't a barrier as long as you earned enough. Go ahead and apply - you'll know for sure within a few weeks!
QuantumLeap
Last tip - keep really good records of everything. Your job search activities, any contact with Washington ESD, your work history, everything. If there are ever any questions about your claim, having documentation makes everything so much easier.
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ThunderBolt7
•What kind of records should I keep for job search activities? Just a list of where I applied?
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QuantumLeap
•Date, employer name, position applied for, method of contact (online, in person, etc.), and what type of activity it was. Washington ESD can audit your job search log so you want to be thorough.
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Malik Johnson
Good luck with your claim! The process can seem overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine of filing weekly claims and doing your job search activities, it becomes pretty straightforward. Hope everything works out for you.
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ThunderBolt7
•Thank you so much! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about applying now.
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