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The three criteria question is usually pretty early in the application process. Once you get past that, there are more detailed questions about your work history and separation reason.
Final tip - save copies of everything you submit to Washington ESD and keep detailed records. If there are any issues later, you'll need documentation to support your case.
Just to add another success story - used the auto-dialer service someone mentioned (Claimyr) last week and finally got to speak to unemployment agent about my pending issues. Took about 2 hours but way better than the weeks I'd been trying manually. Worth checking out if you're stuck.
The key is persistence and having multiple strategies. Don't rely on just one approach - try early morning calls, different phone numbers, online options, and yes even services like Claimyr if you're really stuck. Eventually something will work.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! This thread has been way more useful than trying to navigate the Washington ESD website on my own. Going to file my claim this weekend.
One last thing - make sure you understand the difference between regular unemployment and standby status. If you're temporarily laid off but expect to be called back, standby might be better. Different rules and requirements.
Paloma Clark
Final thought - the Washington ESD phone system is overwhelmed but the agents are actually helpful when you do get through. The problem is the system, not the people. Don't take your frustration out on the agents when you finally connect.
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Freya Ross
•Good reminder. It's not their fault the phone system is broken.
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Heather Tyson
•Absolutely. The agents are doing their best with a broken system.
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Heather Tyson
Hope this thread helps people. The main takeaway is that yes, the phone numbers exist, but no, you probably won't get through using traditional methods. Services like Claimyr exist because the regular system doesn't work for most people.
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Freya Ross
•This thread has been super helpful. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences.
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Sergio Neal
•Glad to help. The unemployment system is hard enough without having to figure out how to actually contact them.
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