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The key thing is to be honest and accurate on your application. If you make mistakes or try to hide information, it will come back to bite you later. Washington ESD has access to all your wage records and employer information, so they'll catch any discrepancies.
Last tip - screenshot or print your confirmation pages when you file claims. Sometimes the system glitches and it's good to have proof you filed on time if there are any issues later.
The formula is pretty straightforward once you understand it. Take your highest quarter earnings, divide by 26, and that's your weekly benefit amount. But there are caps so you won't get more than $999 per week even if you were making bank.
Pro tip: if you're not sure about your benefit amount, try calling Washington ESD early in the morning or late in the evening. Those seem to be the best times to actually get through to someone. Or use that Claimyr service if you don't want to deal with the phone tag.
I've tried calling at all hours and still can't get through. Going to check out that Claimyr thing.
Criminal background can sometimes be an issue too, especially if you were fired due to criminal activity at work. Washington ESD will investigate thoroughly if misconduct involves illegal behavior.
The bottom line is your sister should apply regardless. Even if she thinks she might be denied, it's worth trying. The worst that happens is she gets denied and then she can appeal if she disagrees with the decision.
Thanks everyone! This has been really helpful. I'll tell her to apply and be completely honest about everything.
Good luck to your sister! And remember, if she runs into problems reaching Washington ESD during the process, services like Claimyr can be a lifesaver for actually getting through to someone who can help.
I used Claimyr when I had questions about my weekly claim and it was super helpful. Saved me from sitting on hold for hours just to ask one simple question.
Bottom line - with your earnings you likely qualify for the $295 minimum. The application is free and done online, so there's really no downside to trying. Worst case they say no, best case you get benefits for up to 26 weeks.
Giovanni Rossi
Just want to add that your remaining weeks show up in your eServices account under 'Payment History' if you want to track how many you have left without calling.
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Chloe Martin
•Perfect! I'll check that out. I wasn't sure where to find that information online.
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Fatima Al-Maktoum
•Yeah the eServices portal has most of the information you need. Just login to your SecureAccess Washington account.
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Dylan Mitchell
Bottom line: 26 weeks maximum, depends on your earnings, keep up with job search requirements, and file your weekly claims on time. That covers the basics for duration.
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Chloe Martin
•Thanks everyone! This thread has been really helpful. I feel much better about understanding the system now.
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Diego Rojas
•Good luck with your job search! 26 weeks is definitely enough time if you stay focused.
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