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If you're trying to plan financially, don't forget that you can't collect unemployment for the first week (waiting week). So even if you qualify for the maximum, your first payment will be for the second week of unemployment.
Bottom line: $999 is the max, but your actual amount depends on your specific wage history. Use the formula someone posted earlier or check your SecureAccess Washington account to get a better idea of what you'd actually qualify for.
From what I understand, the two week waiting period includes your waiting week plus one additional week for processing. So if you filed last Tuesday, you should theoretically see something by this coming Tuesday or Wednesday, assuming no complications. But having a backup plan to contact ESD directly if needed is smart.
Just to add - make sure your job search activities are logged correctly from the start. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time and if it's not complete, they can hold up payments even after you've started receiving them.
For what it's worth, I've seen people qualify with way less work history than 8 months. If you were making good money, duration isn't usually the limiting factor.
The bottom line is Washington ESD wants to help eligible people get benefits. They're not trying to trick you or make it impossible to qualify. If you worked and paid into the system, you deserve benefits when you're unemployed.
Just remember that even if you win an appeal, the whole process can take months. Make sure you have some kind of financial cushion or support system before you make the leap.
Final thought - if you do decide to quit, make sure you phrase your reason correctly when filing your UI claim. Don't just say you quit because you were unhappy. Explain the specific circumstances that made continuing work unreasonable or impossible.
Misterclamation Skyblue
Good luck with your application! It sounds like you have a good chance of qualifying based on what you've described. The part-time work shouldn't be an issue as long as you met the wage requirements.
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Norman Fraser
•Thank you! I feel much more confident about applying now after reading everyone's responses.
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Misterclamation Skyblue
•You're welcome! This community is really helpful for navigating the Washington ESD system. Don't hesitate to ask if you have more questions after you apply.
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Peyton Clarke
Just remember that even if your initial application gets denied, you have the right to appeal. Sometimes Washington ESD makes mistakes or doesn't have complete information. An appeal can resolve issues with your claim.
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Norman Fraser
•That's good to know. How long do you have to file an appeal?
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Peyton Clarke
•You have 30 days from the date of the determination notice to file an appeal. The appeal process gives you a chance to provide additional information or correct any errors in your claim.
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