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Just make sure you have all your employment information ready when you file - employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation. Having that stuff organized will make the application process much smoother.
The whole process can seem overwhelming at first but it's really not that complicated once you get started. Washington ESD's online system is pretty straightforward for filing the initial claim.
The whole system is set up to make you give up. I've been fighting a quit disqualification for 5 months now and I'm about ready to just find any job I can get.
Thanks everyone for all the detailed responses. This has been really eye-opening about how strict Washington ESD is with voluntary quits. I think I need to really document my situation thoroughly before making any decisions.
Good call. Documentation is everything when it comes to proving good cause to Washington ESD. Take photos, save emails, get witness statements - whatever applies to your situation.
One final thought - when you do talk to Washington ESD (whether through regular calling or using a service like claimyr), ask specifically about the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs. They sometimes have funding for training that includes income support.
Don't forget you can also potentially qualify for other assistance programs while on unemployment - like food stamps or emergency rental assistance. Every bit helps when you're dealing with reduced income.
Bottom line - file for unemployment as soon as possible after you lose your job. Even if the amount isn't huge, it's money you've earned through your previous work and it can make a big difference while you're job hunting. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits.
Giovanni Greco
Back in 2016 the biggest complaint about Washington ESD was maybe waiting a week or two longer than expected. Now people wait months in adjudication with no updates. The system has definitely gotten worse over time.
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Anastasia Popova
•A week or two sounds like heaven compared to my current 6+ week wait.
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Fatima Al-Farsi
•Yeah those were the days when Washington ESD actually functioned properly.
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Dylan Wright
To answer your original question - yes, 2016 was much better for unemployment benefits in Washington. Lower unemployment rate, faster processing, and you could actually reach customer service. We're dealing with the aftermath of system overload that never got fixed.
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Anastasia Popova
•Thanks for the comprehensive answer. Really helps put my current frustration in context.
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Sofia Torres
•Same boat here - understanding the history helps but doesn't make the current wait any easier!
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