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Just remember - when in doubt, report it. It's better to over-report than under-report with Washington ESD. They're much more forgiving of mistakes when you've been transparent than when they discover unreported work later.
One more thing - make sure your part-time employer knows you're collecting unemployment. Some employers don't realize they need to report wages to the state, which can cause problems with your claim if there are discrepancies.
The waiting week was eliminated in Washington so you should get paid for your first week of unemployment as long as you file on time. Don't wait to file your claim!
if your claim gets stuck in adjudication like mine did, you might want to try calling. I waited 6 weeks before I finally got through to someone who could help. Turned out they just needed one more piece of documentation.
they wanted a letter from my employer confirming my separation date and reason. something that should have been routine but got flagged for manual review
This is another situation where Claimyr could help - getting through to ask about missing documentation instead of waiting weeks for a callback.
Final reminder: even if you think you might not qualify, file anyway. Washington ESD has the expertise to determine eligibility, and you might be surprised by the outcome. The application process is straightforward and you have nothing to lose by trying.
Reading through this thread makes me realize I probably should have filed for unemployment when I quit my toxic job last year. I thought you couldn't get benefits if you quit voluntarily, but it sounds like there are legitimate exceptions. Too bad it's too late now.
You typically have to file within a certain timeframe after becoming unemployed, but it's worth checking with Washington ESD to see if you have any options. Sometimes there are exceptions for people who didn't know they were eligible.
For the original poster, I'd recommend filing your claim as soon as possible even if you're not 100% sure you'll qualify. Washington ESD can take weeks to process claims and make determinations, so the sooner you start the process, the better. Worst case scenario, they deny you and you're no worse off than you are now.
Agreed. I waited too long to file when I was laid off and missed out on weeks of potential benefits. The application process itself doesn't cost anything, so there's really no downside to applying if you think you might qualify.
Cass Green
One more thing - if you have any kind of severance agreement or non-compete clause, make sure it doesn't affect your ability to work. Washington ESD will consider that when determining if you're available for work.
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Nasira Ibanez
•Good point. I do have a non-compete but it's pretty narrow in scope.
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Cass Green
•As long as it doesn't prevent you from taking most jobs in your field, you should be okay. But be prepared to explain it if they ask.
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Jacinda Yu
Final advice - if you do get denied and need to appeal, don't wait. You only have 30 days from the date of the determination letter. And if you need help understanding the process or getting through to someone at Washington ESD, check out claimyr.com. Sometimes talking to an actual person can clear up issues that seem impossible to resolve online.
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Nasira Ibanez
•Thanks everyone. This thread has been way more helpful than the Washington ESD website. I feel like I actually understand what I'm getting into now.
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Khalil Urso
•Good luck! File as soon as you're eligible and don't let the process intimidate you. Most people who qualify do get approved eventually.
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