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One last thing - if anyone does end up with credit issues while unemployed, there are nonprofit credit counseling services that can help. Just wanted to mention that as a resource.
Just to add some specifics since I dealt with this recently - when you file, you'll need your Social Security number, employment history for the past 18 months, and your last employer's information. Having all that ready makes the process go much faster.
I've seen people stress about this deadline question a lot. The truth is Washington ESD wants people to file and get benefits if they're eligible. They're not trying to create arbitrary deadlines to trip people up. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start getting help.
The WorkSourceWA registration requirement is important too. You have to create an account and upload your resume within 4 weeks of filing or they'll disqualify you. Don't put this off because it can take a few days to get approved in their system.
Honestly the best way to know for sure is just to file and see what happens. The online application walks you through everything and will tell you if there are obvious eligibility issues. Based on what you described - 8 months restaurant work plus part-time retail, laid off due to business reasons - you should definitely qualify for benefits.
Jamal Anderson
Just filed my claim yesterday and used the benefit estimator. With my wages from tech job should get around $850/week. Now just waiting for adjudication to complete so payments can start.
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Jamal Anderson
•From what I've read on here, seems like 2-4 weeks is typical right now. Hopefully not longer.
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QuantumQuasar
•If adjudication is taking too long, that's another good time to use something like Claimyr to reach an agent and check on status
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Liam McGuire
One more thing - if you work part-time while collecting unemployment, Washington ESD has a formula for how that affects your weekly benefit. You can earn up to about $200 without any reduction, then they start deducting from your benefit amount.
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Malik Robinson
•That's good to know. So you can do some gig work or part-time and still collect most of your benefits?
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Liam McGuire
•Yeah, they encourage people to work part-time while job searching. Just have to report all earnings when you file your weekly claim.
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