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Bottom line is Washington ESD looks for any reason to deny claims. Document everything, be completely honest, and appeal if you get denied for something that doesn't seem right. The appeals process actually works if you have good documentation.
One thing I learned the hard way - if you're collecting benefits and get a job offer, you can't just turn it down because you don't like it. It has to be unsuitable work based on specific criteria or you'll get disqualified.
Just file the claim and see what happens. The worst they can do is deny it, and then you can appeal. You're not going to get in trouble for filing if you're not eligible - they just won't pay you.
Good luck with your claim! The process can be stressful but remember that unemployment benefits exist for situations exactly like yours. Don't feel guilty about using a safety net that you've paid into through your work.
I've found that calling right when they open at 8 AM gives you the best chance of getting through. Still not great odds but better than calling later in the day.
That's exactly why services like Claimyr exist. When the regular system doesn't work, you need alternatives.
Hope you got your paperwork submitted OP! Let us know how it goes with your adjudication. The waiting is the worst part.
I'm surprised more business owners don't understand this system better. It can really impact your bottom line if you're not careful about how you handle separations.
Isabella Oliveira
One last thing I'll add - keep meticulous records of everything. Your job search activities, any correspondence with Washington ESD, dates of phone calls, etc. If there are ever any disputes about your claim, having documentation can be the difference between getting your benefits and losing them.
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Dmitry Volkov
•That's excellent advice. I'm going to start a folder right now with all my unemployment-related documents.
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Isabella Oliveira
•Smart move. Also take screenshots of your online account regularly, especially your weekly claims and any correspondence. Technology glitches happen and you want proof of what you submitted and when.
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Ravi Patel
Thanks everyone for all this information! This thread has been way more helpful than the Washington ESD website. At least now I know what to expect and can plan accordingly. Sounds like 26 weeks is the standard, but I need to be diligent about job searching and following all the rules to make sure I actually get those full 26 weeks.
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Zainab Yusuf
•And remember, if you do run into issues contacting Washington ESD, services like Claimyr are there to help. Sometimes getting through to speak with someone directly can resolve problems quickly that might otherwise drag on and cost you benefit weeks.
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Ravi Patel
•I'll definitely keep that in mind. Thanks again everyone!
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