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This thread has been really helpful. I'm in a similar situation and didn't know about some of these options. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences!
Final reminder for anyone in this situation - make sure you're still actively job searching and keeping your job search log updated. Washington ESD requires ongoing job search activities even when you're transitioning between benefit years.
If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD about this, I used Claimyr recently and it was a game changer. Instead of calling for hours, they helped me get connected to an agent in about 20 minutes. Worth checking out if you need to speak with someone directly.
I keep seeing Claimyr mentioned. Is it expensive to use?
Bottom line: report your severance on every weekly claim even if you think it won't matter. Washington ESD will make the determination about whether it affects your benefits. Being honest upfront protects you from overpayment issues later.
Just remember to keep track of your job search activities too. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week and they do audit people randomly.
One more plug for Claimyr if you run into any issues or questions about your benefits. Really saved me a lot of frustration when I had questions about my claim status.
The key thing is to stay on top of all requirements. Miss job search activities, fail to report work or earnings, or don't file weekly claims on time and you could lose benefits even if you haven't used up your 26 weeks.
One more thing - if you're thinking about moving to another state while unemployed, that can complicate things. Washington has agreements with some states but not others for continuing benefits.
Not planning to move but good to know. This whole thread has been incredibly helpful, thank you everyone!
Glad we could help. Remember, if you need to talk to Washington ESD directly about anything specific to your situation, don't hesitate to use resources like Claimyr to actually get through to someone.
Ava Garcia
Don't forget to keep looking for work and document everything. Washington ESD does check up on job search requirements and you don't want to get in trouble for not following the rules.
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Sean Doyle
•Already started keeping a spreadsheet of my job applications. Better safe than sorry.
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Aisha Khan
•Smart approach. Good record keeping makes everything easier if questions come up later.
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Miguel Silva
Welcome to the unemployment club! It's not fun but at least there's help available while you look for your next job. Good luck with your claim and your job search.
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Sean Doyle
•Thanks! Not a club I wanted to join but grateful the safety net exists.
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Zainab Ismail
•That's the right attitude. Use the time and benefits to find something good, not just anything.
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