


Ask the community...
Does the weekly benefit amount ever increase during your claim? Like if there's a cost of living adjustment or something?
No, your weekly benefit amount stays the same throughout your claim period. The state adjusts the maximum weekly benefit amount annually, but that only affects new claims filed after the adjustment.
I just want to add that if anyone is having trouble getting their questions answered by Washington ESD, there are resources out there. I was struggling for weeks until someone told me about Claimyr - they actually call Washington ESD for you and get you connected to a real person. Saved me hours of frustration.
For what it's worth, I used that Claimyr service too and it was legitimately helpful. Got connected to an agent who could see my claim had been sitting in the wrong queue for 2 weeks. Sometimes you just need a human to actually look at your case.
Bottom line: 2-4 weeks is normal, 4-6 weeks if there are complications, and anything longer than that you should definitely be pushing for answers. Don't just wait passively if you're approaching the 6 week mark with no communication.
Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm going to start by filing a worker classification determination request with Washington ESD and gathering all my documentation. Even if it takes months, it seems like my best shot at getting benefits.
Definitely consider using Claimyr if you need to speak with someone at ESD. Made a huge difference for me.
Just wanted to add - if you do decide to decline this offer, make sure you have a solid plan for continuing your job search. Keep applying, networking, maybe consider some professional development activities to make yourself more marketable.
Final thought - if you're really unsure, you could always ask the employer for a few days to consider the offer. That gives you time to maybe connect with a Washington ESD agent through Claimyr or another service to get official guidance on your specific situation.
Zoe Papadopoulos
The Washington ESD mobile app is actually pretty useful once you get used to it. You can file weekly claims, check payment status, and update your contact info all from your phone.
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Caden Turner
•What's the app called? I'd rather use my phone than the computer.
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Zoe Papadopoulos
•It's just called 'Washington ESD' in the app store. Works pretty well for basic functions.
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Jamal Brown
honestly the whole system is designed to help unemployed workers, not punish them. yes there are rules and requirements but theyre not trying to trick u or make it impossible. just be honest and follow the guidelines
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McKenzie Shade
•Good luck with your application! Remember you've earned these benefits through your work history.
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Daryl Bright
•And if you need to talk to Washington ESD directly about anything, don't forget about Claimyr if the phone lines are jammed.
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