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Overall it's not too bad if you're prepared. Washington ESD has streamlined the process a lot. Just budget about an hour and have all your documents ready beforehand.
Good luck with your application! Feel free to ask if you run into any issues. This community is pretty good at helping each other navigate the Washington ESD system.
I went through this exact situation two years ago. Quit due to harassment, got initially denied, won on appeal. The key was having witnesses and written documentation of incidents. Take photos of any written communications if you can.
Just want to add that if you're in a union, definitely talk to your union rep before quitting. They might have additional resources or protections available.
Just remember that even if you qualify monetarily, you can still be disqualified for the reason you became unemployed. If you quit without good cause or get fired for willful misconduct, you won't get benefits regardless of your work history.
It depends on the specific circumstances, but generally you need to show you tried to resolve workplace issues before quitting. Simple personality conflicts usually aren't enough.
The bottom line is you should apply if you become unemployed and think you might qualify. The worst they can do is say no, and at least you'll know for sure. The application process itself will show you exactly what wages they have on record for your base period.
The silver lining is that if this was genuinely your first claim in 3 years, it shows you're running a stable business. That history of low claims will help keep your rate from going up too much. Washington ESD does factor in your overall track record.
Just remember to keep detailed records of everything - the separation reason, any documentation, correspondence with Washington ESD. If you ever need to dispute something later or if there are questions about future claims, having good records makes everything easier.
Diego Fisher
Bottom line: unemployment is taxable income, set up withholding if you can, and save money for taxes if you don't. Better to be prepared than get hit with a big bill later.
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JaylinCharles
•Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm going to try to get the withholding set up this week.
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Henrietta Beasley
Update us when you get it figured out! I'm sure other people have this same question and could benefit from knowing how it goes.
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JaylinCharles
•Will do! Hopefully I can get through to someone at Washington ESD without too much trouble.
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Freya Collins
•If not, that Claimyr service really does work. Made my life so much easier when I needed to talk to someone.
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