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If it helps, Washington ESD typically processes claims in the order they were received. So if you filed 10 days ago, you're probably getting close to being reviewed.
Hang in there! I was stressed about the same thing a few months ago and everything worked out fine. Got my first payment at the 3 week mark and all the back pay covered the waiting period.
Just remember that even if you qualify for the maximum weekly amount, you still need to meet all the eligibility requirements each week - available for work, actively seeking work, and able to work. High benefits don't exempt you from any requirements.
The monetary determination letter you receive will also show your base period wages quarter by quarter, so you can verify they have the right information. If anything looks wrong, contact them immediately to get it corrected.
At this point I'm just grateful Washington ESD exists at all. Could be worse - could be living in a state with no unemployment benefits.
Thanks for all the info everyone. At least now I know I'm not the only one dealing with long wait times. Guess I'll just have to be patient and keep checking my account.
Bottom line - treat unemployment like regular income because that's what it is for tax purposes. Have taxes withheld if you want to keep it simple, or set aside money yourself if you prefer more control. Just don't ignore it and hope it goes away.
One more plug for Claimyr if anyone else needs to reach Washington ESD quickly - I've used them twice now and both times got through in under 10 minutes instead of hours of busy signals. Check out their demo video if you're curious how it works.
Vincent Bimbach
One thing to watch out for - even though there's no waiting week, if you have any issues with your claim it can take time to resolve. I had to use Claimyr to get through to someone about my job separation issue.
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Sophie Duck
•That's the second time someone mentioned Claimyr. Seems like it's pretty helpful for getting through to ESD.
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Kelsey Chin
•Yeah I've heard good things about it too. Might try it if I run into any issues.
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Norah Quay
Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses! Sounds like I should expect to get paid for my first week as long as everything goes smoothly with my claim.
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Austin Leonard
•Exactly! Just make sure to keep filing your weekly claims and doing your job search activities. Good luck with your claim!
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Leo McDonald
•Hope everything works out for you!
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