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One more thing - if you do get unemployment benefits, you can still do some part-time work. Washington ESD allows you to earn up to your weekly benefit amount before it starts reducing your benefits. So if you're getting $999, you could earn up to $999 in a week and still get some unemployment.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! This thread has been really informative. Hopefully I won't need to use any of this knowledge but it's good to be prepared.
Thanks for asking this question! I'm in a similar situation and was wondering the same thing. This thread has been incredibly informative.
Just to wrap this up - yes, you can collect both, just report your social security income on your weekly claims, and make sure you're still actively looking for work. Pretty straightforward once you know the rules.
Just want to mention that if you're unsure about whether you qualify, it doesn't hurt to apply anyway. Let Washington ESD make the determination rather than assuming you don't qualify. The worst they can say is no, but you might be surprised.
One last thing - make sure you understand the difference between regular unemployment and other programs. There used to be pandemic programs but those ended. Now it's just regular UI benefits for most people.
I think the key is proving you had no reasonable alternative to quitting. If your employer couldn't accommodate your family care needs and you couldn't afford unpaid leave, that might constitute good cause. Document everything!
Update us after you file and let us know what happens! Your situation might help other people in similar circumstances understand their options.
Noah Torres
One last thing - don't try to hide anything from Washington ESD. They cross-reference with other databases and will find out about unreported work, income, or other issues. Being honest upfront is always better than getting caught in fraud later.
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Chloe Green
•this is so important! fraud penalties are serious and can make you permanently ineligible
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Noah Torres
•Exactly. The temporary embarrassment of admitting to something is way better than the permanent consequences of hiding it.
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Samantha Hall
I used Claimyr a few months ago when I was confused about whether my separation would be considered misconduct. The Washington ESD agent was able to explain the difference between misconduct and poor performance, and helped me understand what documentation I needed. Saved me a lot of stress and uncertainty.
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Ethan Clark
•That's exactly what I need - someone who can explain the nuances of these rules instead of just generic information.
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Samantha Hall
•Right, every situation is different and the general rules don't always apply clearly to your specific circumstances.
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