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Been getting unemployment for 8 weeks now and I can tell you the calculation was exactly what someone earlier said - highest quarter divided by 26. Mine came out to $684 per week which is way more than I expected based on my annual salary.
Thanks everyone for all the help! I think I have a much better understanding now. Going to gather my wage info and file this week. Really appreciate all the detailed explanations and tips about getting through to Washington ESD if I need help.
Good luck with your claim! Feel free to post back here if you run into any issues during the application process.
Definitely keep that Claimyr option in mind if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. Their phone system is notorious for being impossible to get through otherwise.
The key is having realistic expectations. Washington ESD isn't Amazon Prime - government agencies move at government speed. Plan for 4-6 weeks worst case so you're not caught off guard.
I've helped several people with Washington ESD claims and the biggest factor in processing speed is completeness of the initial application. Double-check everything before submitting - missing or incorrect information is what causes most delays.
You can still log back in and review what you submitted. If you spot any errors, contact Washington ESD right away to correct them before they become bigger issues.
One more tip - if you do apply and get denied, don't panic. You can appeal the decision and sometimes they made an error in calculating your base period wages. I've seen people get approved on appeal after being initially denied.
The Claimyr thing mentioned earlier actually helped me with an appeal too. The Washington ESD agent they connected me with was able to explain exactly why I was denied and what documentation I needed to provide. Much better than trying to figure it out from the confusing letters they send.
Just want to add - keep track of all your payments for tax purposes. Washington ESD will send you a 1099-G form at the end of the year, but it's good to have your own records too.
Bottom line - be patient with the first payment. It usually takes 2-3 weeks from when you first file to when you see money, especially if you're getting the debit card mailed to you.
Paolo Esposito
The maximum duration is 26 weeks in Washington unless extended benefits are available. Your benefit year lasts 52 weeks from when you first file, but you can only collect for 26 weeks during that year.
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Yuki Tanaka
•Got it, so 26 weeks of benefits within a 52-week benefit year. That makes sense.
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Paolo Esposito
•Exactly. And if you find work and get laid off again within that benefit year, you might be able to reopen your existing claim.
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Amina Toure
Just wanted to add that if you're considering consulting or freelance work while on unemployment, make sure you report ALL income. Even small amounts can affect your weekly benefit, but you can usually still collect partial benefits.
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Yuki Tanaka
•Good point about reporting all income. I wasn't sure how strict they were about small freelance payments.
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Amina Toure
•They're pretty strict about income reporting. Better to over-report than under-report and face potential overpayment issues later.
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