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The hardest part for me was understanding the base period calculation. I recommend calling Washington ESD to verify your eligibility before applying if you're unsure about your wage history.
Or use that Claimyr service someone mentioned to actually get through to them without waiting on hold all day.
Based on what you've described - being laid off after 8 months of work and earning $28k last year - you should definitely qualify for Washington unemployment benefits. Just make sure to apply soon since there can be delays in processing.
Anyone know if the $999 includes the additional federal unemployment that was happening during COVID? Or is that just the regular Washington state amount?
Bottom line: expect around 50% of your weekly wages up to $999 max. File your claim as soon as possible after job loss and keep detailed records of your job search. The system isn't perfect but the benefits are there if you follow the rules.
hang in there! the waiting sucks but once its approved you get all the back pay so its worth the wait
Last thing - if you do need to contact Washington ESD and the regular phone lines aren't working, that Claimyr service people mentioned actually worked for my sister. She was able to get through and find out her claim was approved but there was a glitch preventing the notification email from sending.
One last thing - make sure you have all your employment information ready when you apply. Employer names, addresses, dates of employment, reason for separation, etc. It'll make the process go much smoother.
The most important thing is being honest in your application. If there are any issues with your employment history or reason for separation, it's better to explain it upfront rather than have them find out later.
Kelsey Hawkins
Just wanted to follow up on the Claimyr suggestion from earlier. If you do need to speak with Washington ESD about this protest situation, that service really does work well for getting through their phone system. Much better than the frustration of trying to call during business hours and never getting through.
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Lucas Parker
•I think I'm going to try it. This uncertainty about the protest is driving me crazy and I need to know what's actually happening with my claim.
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Nolan Carter
•same here, been trying to call for weeks about my own issue. might as well try something that actually works
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Lucas Parker
Update: Thanks everyone for all the information and advice. I'm going to continue filing my weekly claims like suggested and gather up any documentation I have about my layoff. Hopefully this protest doesn't go anywhere but at least now I know what to expect in the process. This forum has been incredibly helpful!
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Kaitlyn Jenkins
•you've got this! just be thorough in your response when you get the paperwork and you should be fine
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Harper Collins
•hope it works out better for you than it did for me. keep us updated if you feel like it
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