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The whole system seems designed to be as complicated as possible. Why can't they just base it on your last few paystubs like other states do?
Using quarterly data provides a more stable calculation that accounts for seasonal variations and temporary pay changes. Paystubs can be misleading if someone had unusual earnings right before filing.
Just want to say thanks to everyone who explained this. I was worried my benefit amount was wrong but now I understand how Washington ESD calculated it. This thread was more helpful than their website!
Glad this helped! And remember if you ever need to actually speak with Washington ESD about your specific situation, Claimyr can save you hours of calling. Super helpful service.
The silver lining is that once you get approved and start receiving payments, the weekly process is pretty smooth. Filing weekly claims only takes a few minutes each week and payments are usually direct deposited within 2-3 days.
Bottom line - 2-4 weeks is typical for straightforward claims, longer if there are complications. Keep filing weekly, keep looking for work, and be ready to provide additional information if they ask. The system is slow but it works eventually. Good luck!
Have you tried reaching out to your state representative's office? Sometimes they can help cut through the red tape with Washington ESD issues.
UPDATE: I finally got through using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Turns out my employer did dispute my claim saying I was fired for misconduct, which is completely false. Now I have to provide documentation to prove otherwise. At least I know what I'm dealing with now. Thanks everyone for the advice!
Good luck with the documentation. Make sure to include anything that shows you quit for good cause or that the misconduct claim is false. Pay stubs, emails, witness statements, whatever you have.
Bottom line - file as soon as you're eligible and don't overthink the benefit calculation too much. Washington ESD will figure it out based on your wage history and let you know what you qualify for.
NebulaNova
Bottom line: no age restriction for unemployment in Washington state. If your daughter worked, earned wages, and lost her job through no fault of her own, she can file. The rest is just paperwork and following the normal UI process.
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Oliver Wagner
•Perfect, that's exactly what I needed to know. Thanks to everyone who responded - this has been really helpful!
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NebulaNova
•You're welcome! Hope her claim goes smoothly. Just remember to keep up with the weekly claims and job search requirements.
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Mateo Hernandez
good luck with the application! washington esd can be a pain to deal with but the benefits are definitely worth it when you need them. your daughter should be fine as long as she meets the wage requirements
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Oliver Wagner
•Thank you! I feel much more confident about moving forward with her application now.
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Mateo Hernandez
•awesome! just be patient with the process and don't hesitate to reach out if you run into any issues
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