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One more tip - if you're worried about the application process, you can always start it and save your progress. You don't have to complete it all in one sitting. Sometimes it helps to gather all your information first and then come back to finish it when you're ready.
Good luck with your application! Most people find the process much less scary once they actually start. The important thing is to be honest, thorough, and don't let the bureaucracy intimidate you. You've got this!
For anyone else reading this later: keep in mind federal holidays can add extra processing time too. Banks don't process ACH transfers on federal holidays so that extends the timeline.
If anyone's still having trouble reaching Washington ESD when you need help, I also had success with that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Really came through when I had an adjudication issue that needed immediate attention.
Bottom line - file every Sunday for the week that ended Saturday, be honest about work and earnings, keep doing your job search, and you'll be fine. The Washington ESD system isn't as scary as it seems at first.
Last piece of advice - read everything Washington ESD sends you carefully. They send important notices about your claim, changes to requirements, appointment notices, etc. Missing something could affect your benefits.
Good luck with your claim! The whole process seems overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine of filing weekly claims and doing your job search, it becomes manageable. Just stay on top of the requirements and you should be fine.
Leo Simmons
For anyone wondering, the $999 maximum is before any deductions. If you have an overpayment from a previous claim, they'll deduct that from your weekly benefits even if you qualify for the max amount.
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Lindsey Fry
•Good point. I had a $200 overpayment from 2023 and they're taking $50 a week out of my current benefits to pay it back.
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Leo Simmons
•Same here. It's frustrating but at least they let you pay it back gradually instead of demanding a lump sum.
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Saleem Vaziri
The maximum benefit calculation seems fair to me. If you earned more, you get more (up to the cap). Much better than states that have a flat amount for everyone.
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Kayla Morgan
•Agreed. Washington's system is pretty generous compared to most states. The $999 max is one of the highest in the country.
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Saleem Vaziri
•Exactly. I moved here from a state where the max was only $450 a week. Big difference!
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