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I tried that Claimyr service someone mentioned and it actually worked! Got through to an agent who explained that my claim was waiting for my previous employer to respond to a separation verification request. At least now I know what's happening.
Bottom line: 'In Progress' means wait and keep filing your weekly claims. There's not much else you can do except be patient. The system is slow but it usually works eventually.
Does anyone know if working part-time while collecting unemployment affects your benefits? I might want to pick up some freelance work to supplement the income.
You can work part-time and still collect partial unemployment benefits, but you have to report all earnings on your weekly claims. Washington ESD will reduce your benefits based on how much you earn.
I went through this exact situation 6 months ago. The benefit calculation seemed fair based on my previous earnings, but the real challenge was navigating all the requirements and getting answers when I had questions. Having a reliable way to contact Washington ESD makes a huge difference in the whole process.
Just to summarize for OP - you need sufficient wages in your base period, be unemployed through no fault of your own, be able and available for work, and actively seek employment. The monetary requirements are pretty specific so check those carefully.
Also worth mentioning - if you're eligible for other types of benefits like workers compensation or social security, that might affect your unemployment benefits. Washington ESD has specific offset rules for these situations.
Last piece of advice - keep copies of everything. Screenshot your weekly claim submissions, save emails from Washington ESD, keep your job search log updated. If there are ever questions about your claim, having documentation will save you a lot of headaches.
You've got this! The first application is always the most overwhelming but once you get into the routine of weekly claims it becomes pretty automatic. Focus on getting that initial claim filed correctly and everything else will follow.
Malik Johnson
Another heads up - your former employer will get a notice about your unemployment claim and they have the right to contest it if they think you shouldn't get benefits. Most employers don't bother unless it was a termination for serious misconduct, but just be aware it could happen.
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Malik Johnson
•Probably not if it was legitimate restructuring. Employers usually only contest when they think the person was fired for cause.
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Ava Garcia
•Plus contesting costs them time and money, so they typically only do it for clear-cut misconduct cases.
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Isabella Ferreira
Don't forget that you'll need to file weekly claims every week once your initial claim is processed, even if you're still waiting for a determination. Missing a weekly claim can delay your benefits.
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Fatima Al-Suwaidi
•How do I know when to start filing weekly claims? Will Washington ESD notify me?
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Isabella Ferreira
•You should get instructions after you file your initial claim. Usually you can start filing weekly claims the week after you submit your application.
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