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Just saw this thread and wanted to add that you should also keep track of all your job search activities from day one. Even if you're still waiting for your claim to be approved, start documenting your job searches right away.
For anyone still reading this thread, I want to mention that if you're really stuck and need to talk to someone at ESD, I found this service called Claimyr that actually gets you through to agents. I was skeptical at first but they got me connected when I'd been trying for days. The website is claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.
Update for the OP: sounds like you should expect 2-3 weeks total if everything goes smoothly. Make sure you're filing those weekly claims and keep doing job searches. The worst case is probably 4-6 weeks if there are complications, but layoffs are usually pretty straightforward.
One last question - is there any way to estimate your benefit amount before you actually file your claim?
Thanks everyone for all the explanations! This thread has been more helpful than hours of trying to understand the official Washington ESD documentation.
For anyone wondering about the actual dollar amounts, here's what I've seen from friends and coworkers: minimum wage workers usually get around $300-400 per week, retail workers like OP might get $450-550, and higher earners can get up to the maximum of $999. It really depends on your earnings history.
The whole system is designed to make you give up. Between the impossible phone lines, confusing paperwork, and constant verification requests, they're hoping people just won't bother. But stick with it because you paid into this system through your payroll taxes.
Keisha Robinson
Your weekly benefit amount is really just one piece of the puzzle. You also need to make sure you understand the job search requirements and weekly claim filing process. Washington ESD can be picky about that stuff.
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QuantumQuasar
•Yeah I've been reading about the job search log requirements. Seems like I need to document 3 job search activities per week?
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Keisha Robinson
•That's right, 3 job search activities per week and you need to keep detailed records. They can audit your job search log so make sure you're documenting everything properly.
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GalaxyGuardian
Bottom line - your weekly benefit will be roughly 60-70% of what you were making per week when you were working, up to the state maximum. For $52k annually, you're probably looking at $500-650 per week before taxes.
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QuantumQuasar
•That math makes sense. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I feel much better about understanding how this all works now.
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Zoe Papanikolaou
•No problem! Good luck with your job search and don't hesitate to ask if you have more questions about the unemployment process.
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