


Ask the community...
Has anyone else noticed that Washington ESD's phone system is absolutely terrible? I've been trying to reach them about my benefit calculation for weeks and can never get through during business hours.
YES! It's the worst. I actually started using this service called Claimyr that calls for you and gets you connected. Saved me so much time and frustration. Check it out at claimyr.com if you're tired of the runaround.
Once you get your monetary determination letter, make sure to review it carefully. If anything looks wrong with your wage history or benefit calculation, you can appeal it within 30 days.
Filed unemployment 3 times in my career due to layoffs. Never had any issues with former employers. Most of them knew I was filing and some even provided reference letters for my job search. It's just part of business.
Update us when you file! I'm sure it'll go smoothly. And remember you still need to do job search activities while collecting benefits, so start thinking about that too.
If you're really worried about the amount, you can always try to get a part-time job while collecting benefits. Washington allows you to work and still receive partial unemployment as long as you report your earnings.
Bottom line - file your claim ASAP and don't stress too much about the exact amount until you get your determination letter. Washington ESD will calculate it for you and send you a detailed breakdown.
One last thing - keep all your unemployment paperwork organized! You might need it for taxes, or if Washington ESD has questions about your claim later. I keep everything in a folder on my computer and print important stuff.
You've got this! The hardest part was getting approved. Now it's just a matter of following the rules and finding your next opportunity. Welcome to the unemployment journey!
Sophia Gabriel
Been following this discussion and wanted to mention that even though there's a waiting period, you might be eligible for other assistance programs while you wait. Food benefits, housing assistance, etc. Don't suffer in silence during that first week.
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Norman Fraser
•That's a good point. I hadn't thought about other programs. Do you know where to apply for those?
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Sophia Gabriel
•Check with DSHS (Department of Social and Health Services) for food and medical assistance. Many counties also have emergency assistance programs.
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Tobias Lancaster
Final update from me - I finally got through to Washington ESD using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Turns out my adjudication was just waiting for one piece of paperwork from my employer. Agent was able to tell me exactly what was needed and how long it should take. Would have saved me weeks of stress if I'd been able to talk to someone sooner.
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Norman Fraser
•This gives me hope. I might try it if my adjudication drags on much longer.
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Ezra Beard
•It's crazy that we need third-party services just to reach our own state agency, but whatever works!
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