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Just want to add that your benefit amount stays the same for your entire benefit year (52 weeks from when you first filed), even if you go back to work and then become unemployed again during that period. The only way it changes is if you have a new claim after your benefit year expires.
The benefit calculation seems fair overall but I wish Washington ESD was more transparent about the process. When I first filed, I had no idea how they came up with my weekly amount. Had to do a lot of research to understand the base period concept.
Just wanted to share that I tried that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and it actually worked! Finally got through to Washington ESD and got all my questions answered about my benefit duration and remaining weeks. Definitely worth it if you're having trouble reaching them.
Bottom line for anyone reading this: 26 weeks maximum for regular unemployment in Washington State. File every week, do your job searches, and keep good records. The time goes faster than you expect so don't waste it.
Just wanted to add - if your claim gets flagged for adjudication (which happens pretty commonly), don't panic. It just means they need to review something about your claim manually. It can take a few weeks but most claims do get approved eventually. The key is staying on top of your weekly filings even during adjudication.
Usually it's things like conflicting information about why you left your job, wage discrepancies, or if you've filed claims in multiple states recently. Sometimes it's just random quality control checks.
My claim went to adjudication and I tried calling Washington ESD for weeks to find out why. Finally used Claimyr to get through and the agent explained it was just a routine review. Got approved the next week.
One last tip - print out or screenshot your confirmation page after you submit your application. Keep that confirmation number handy. You'll need it if you have to call Washington ESD about your claim status.
Final thought - start looking for new jobs now while you still have income. Even if you qualify for unemployment, it's only a portion of your wages and it's temporary. The sooner you can find new employment, the better off you'll be.
Thanks everyone for all the advice. This has been really informative. I hope I don't need to use any of this information, but at least I know what to expect now if the worst happens.
Sayid Hassan
Another tip - screenshot everything! Your claim status, payment confirmations, weekly filing confirmations. I've seen people have issues where the system didn't record something properly and having screenshots saved them a lot of hassle.
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Felix Grigori
•Smart idea. I'll start doing that with all my weekly filings and any status changes.
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Rachel Tao
•Yes! I learned this the hard way when they claimed I didn't file for a certain week even though I definitely did. Luckily I had the confirmation screenshot.
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Derek Olson
Overall just be patient but persistent. The system works but it's not always fast or intuitive. Stay on top of your requirements and don't hesitate to reach out for help if you get stuck on something. Most people get through the process just fine, it just takes longer than we'd all like!
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Danielle Mays
•Good luck with your claim! Hope it goes smoothly and you get approved quickly.
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Aisha Jackson
•Feel free to come back and ask if you run into any specific issues. This community is pretty good about helping each other navigate the Washington ESD system.
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