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This whole conversation makes me feel better about filing. I was worried I wouldn't qualify for much but sounds like the calculation is pretty straightforward once you understand it.
Thanks for all the info everyone! I've been putting off filing because I didn't understand how it worked. This thread answered most of my questions.
The whole system is designed to make it hard for people in genuine need. But don't give up - if you have a legitimate reason for quitting, keep pushing through the process.
Last thing - make sure you understand the appeals process in case your initial claim gets denied. Many people don't realize they can appeal and just give up.
One more thing - make sure you understand your rights in the appeals process if it comes to that. You can present evidence and have witnesses testify at unemployment hearings.
Bottom line: respond to Washington ESD promptly, provide all requested documentation, and don't take it personally if they approve benefits. The system errs on the side of helping unemployed workers.
Just remember that even with tax withholding, you should still keep good records of all your unemployment payments and any work you do on the side. Makes tax filing much easier.
Thanks everyone for all this helpful information! I had no idea unemployment was taxable and I've been on it for 2 months already. Better late than never to get this figured out.
Sasha Reese
The whole process can be overwhelming but don't let it discourage you from applying if you think you might qualify. The worst they can do is say no, and then you can appeal if you disagree with their decision.
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Muhammad Hobbs
•This is good advice. I almost didn't apply because I wasn't sure if I qualified, but it turned out I did. Better to try than to assume you won't qualify.
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Amy Fleming
•thanks everyone for all the help! i think i have a better understanding now
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Ivanna St. Pierre
If you do decide to apply, make sure you file as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. There can be delays in processing, and you want to establish your claim date as early as possible since benefits typically aren't retroactive beyond when you first file.
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Amy Fleming
•got it, thanks for the reminder about filing quickly
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Noland Curtis
•And if you run into issues with your claim or need to talk to someone at Washington ESD, that Claimyr service really does work. I used it last month when my claim was stuck in adjudication.
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