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been through this process 3 times over the years (construction work, layoffs happen) and my advice is to start early in the day when you apply online. the system sometimes gets slow during peak hours and you don't want it timing out while you're halfway through
Final thoughts for the OP - the Washington ESD website has a really good checklist of everything you need before starting your application. Print that out and gather everything first, then sit down and complete the whole application in one session. Having to log back in and find where you left off just adds unnecessary stress.
The key thing is to file as soon as possible after you lose your job. There's no waiting period to file and your benefit year starts when you file, not when you lost your job. So don't delay!
Overall the Washington ESD system works pretty well once you get through the initial setup. Just be patient with the process and make sure you meet all the requirements. Your benefit amount should be reasonable based on your work history.
Bottom line: it's not about working one job for a certain amount of time. It's about total wages earned over a specific timeframe (your base period) and being unemployed for qualifying reasons. Check your wage history and apply if you think you meet the requirements.
I keep seeing people mention WorkSourceWA. Is that a separate account I need to create or is it connected to my unemployment claim?
Just want to add - if you have any issues with your claim or need to appeal a decision, you have limited time to do that too. Don't assume everything will work out automatically.
Usually 30 days from the date of the decision. The appeal instructions should be in any determination letter you receive.
And if you need help understanding a decision or talking through an appeal, that's another situation where Claimyr can help you get through to Washington ESD to get real answers.
StarStrider
One more thing to check - make sure your mailing address is correct in the system. Some people have delays because Washington ESD can't reach them for additional information.
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Yara Sabbagh
•I double-checked that when I filed but good reminder to verify it's still accurate.
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Yuki Sato
Hang in there! The waiting is definitely the hardest part but most people do get approved eventually. Just keep doing everything right - weekly claims, job search, staying available for work.
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Yara Sabbagh
•Thank you for the encouragement! This thread has been really helpful for understanding what to expect.
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Carmen Ruiz
•This is such a supportive community. Going through unemployment is stressful enough without having to navigate it alone.
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