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One last thing - if you're coming from another state, make sure to close out any claims there before filing with Washington ESD. You can only have one active unemployment claim at a time, but it's all still handled through state agencies, not federal ones.
Don't forget about the waiting week - Washington eliminated it during COVID but I think it's back now? Someone correct me if I'm wrong.
Final thought - your benefit amount stays the same throughout your benefit year even if you get a new job and get laid off again. So it's based on your earnings when you first file, not your most recent job.
Sorry to jump in late, but I wanted to mention that if you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD to ask about your specific situation, I had good luck with a service called Claimyr. They helped me get through to an actual person when I had questions about my remaining benefit weeks. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ if you want to see how it works.
A few people have mentioned that service now. Sounds like it might be worth trying if I need to call them.
Yeah, I've seen Claimyr mentioned in other threads too. Seems legit for getting through the phone maze at Washington ESD.
Bottom line for anyone reading this: Washington state gives you up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits within a benefit year that lasts 52 weeks from when you file. Keep filing weekly, meet your job search requirements, and don't wait until the last minute to plan your next steps. The system isn't perfect but it's there to help bridge you to your next job.
I had success using Claimyr after weeks of trying to get through myself. It's worth checking out if you're really stuck - they basically wait on hold for you and call you back when they get an agent. Much better than spending your whole day calling.
Bottom line - there are no walk-in unemployment offices in Washington anymore. It's all phone and online. Your best bet is calling first thing in the morning or using a service to help you get through.
Seriously consider the Claimyr option if you keep getting stuck. It made all the difference for me getting my adjudication resolved.
CosmicCaptain
wish they explained this stuff better on the washington esd website. took reading this whole thread to finally understand it
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Sean O'Donnell
•Government websites are notoriously bad at explaining things in plain language. They assume everyone already knows the basics.
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Giovanni Rossi
Great discussion everyone. I feel like I actually understand where my benefits are coming from now. Thanks for taking the time to explain it all!
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StarSeeker
•Agreed! This has been super helpful. Makes me feel more confident about navigating the whole unemployment system.
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Fatima Al-Maktoum
•Knowledge is power, especially when dealing with bureaucracy like Washington ESD.
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