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Bottom line: if you're following the rules, reporting everything honestly, and keeping good records, you shouldn't have to pay anything back. The people who get in trouble are usually the ones who try to game the system or make honest mistakes they don't correct.
Just want to add - if you're ever unsure about something, it's better to ask than to guess wrong. The consequences of an overpayment can be serious, including having to pay back money you might have already spent.
The problem is actually getting through to ask questions. Washington ESD's phone system is impossible.
That's exactly why I recommend Claimyr to people. Sometimes you need to talk to a real person to avoid costly mistakes, and they make that possible.
Keep in mind that if you do qualify for a new claim, you'll have to go through the whole process again including job search requirements and waiting periods. It's not just an automatic extension of your current claim.
Bottom line is that extended benefits are rare and only available during high unemployment periods. Your best bet is to either qualify for a new regular claim or look into other assistance programs while you continue job searching. Don't count on extended benefits being available.
If you're really worried, you could try using that phone service to get through to an agent and just ask for a status update. Sometimes just knowing where things stand can reduce the anxiety even if it doesn't speed things up.
Yeah that Claimyr thing sounds like it might be worth it just for peace of mind. Better than sitting here wondering what's happening.
hang in there! i know the waiting is stressful but two weeks is totally normal. once you get that first payment youll feel so much better
If you're filing soon, make sure you have all your employment info ready - dates, wages, reason for separation, etc. The more accurate info you provide upfront, the less likely your claim will get delayed.
The hardest part for me was the waiting. Even when everything goes smoothly, it takes a few weeks to get your first payment. Make sure you have some savings to cover expenses during that initial period.
StarGazer101
BTW, when you do file your claim, make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready. They'll ask for details about every job you had during the base period.
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Ethan Campbell
•Do I need pay stubs or will they get that information from employers?
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StarGazer101
•They get wage info from employers, but having your own records helps if there are any discrepancies. Keep pay stubs just in case.
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Keisha Jackson
I've been through this process twice now and the hardest part is always getting through to someone at Washington ESD when you have questions. That Claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier really does help with that - I used it for my second claim when I needed to update my information.
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Paolo Romano
•How quickly did they get you through to someone?
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Keisha Jackson
•It took a few tries over a couple days, but way better than me calling dozens of times myself and never getting through.
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