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Bottom line - if you get let go, file immediately and let Washington ESD make the determination. Don't second-guess yourself about whether you qualify. Better to apply and get denied than not apply and miss out on benefits you were entitled to.
Just want to add that if you do end up needing to contact Washington ESD with questions, I also had success with Claimyr after reading about it here. The regular phone lines are basically impossible but their service got me through within 20 minutes. The demo video they have explains it pretty well.
Final myth I'll mention: 'Unemployment benefits are the same amount for everyone.' Your weekly benefit amount is calculated based on your previous earnings, so people with higher wages generally receive higher benefits up to the state maximum.
This has been a great discussion! It's amazing how many myths and incorrect statements circulate about unemployment compensation. When in doubt, always check with Washington ESD directly rather than relying on secondhand information.
Absolutely! And if you can't get through on the phone, that claimyr service seems like a good option for getting reliable answers.
Bottom line for OP: with your income level, you'll probably get somewhere in the $600-800 range weekly, but use the official calculator and file your claim to get the exact amount. Don't let the complexity stop you from filing if you're eligible.
I went through something similar and won my appeal. The key was showing that reasonable person would have quit under those circumstances. Your hour reduction sounds even more extreme than mine was.
One more tip - if you have any medical conditions or family obligations that made the reduced schedule particularly problematic, mention those in your appeal. It adds to the 'good cause' argument.
Micah Franklin
Quick question - does anyone know if you can collect unemployment if you're getting severance pay? My restaurant gave me two weeks severance but I'm not sure if that affects my eligibility.
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Micah Franklin
•It's a lump sum but they said it's for the two weeks after my last day. I'll probably need to call Washington ESD to clarify.
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Savannah Vin
•That's exactly the type of question Claimyr can help you get answered quickly. Calling on your own could take forever to get through.
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Ella Harper
thanks everyone for all the helpful info. this thread has been way more useful than the washington esd website lol. at least now i have a better idea of what to expect
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Jason Brewer
•That's what these forums are for - helping each other navigate the system. Good luck with your claim!
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Ella Harper
•definitely. hope everyone here gets their claims sorted out quickly
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