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Whatever you do, make sure you file as soon as possible after losing your job. You can't get retroactive benefits for weeks before you actually filed your claim, even if you were eligible.
One last thing - make sure you understand all the requirements before you start collecting. Missing a weekly filing or not doing your job search requirements can mess up your whole claim and you might have to start over.
Filing for unemployment was the best decision I made after getting fired. Even though I was nervous about it, I got approved and it kept me afloat while job hunting. Don't let fear stop you from filing.
One more thing - if you do get approved, make sure you understand the job search requirements. You need to be actively looking for work and keeping records. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time.
Bottom line - start planning now for when your benefits end. 26 weeks goes by fast and there's no safety net after that unless you qualify for other programs.
If you're really struggling to get information from Washington ESD directly, Claimyr has been a lifesaver for me multiple times. Worth every penny when you actually need to talk to someone who can give you real answers about your specific situation.
For anyone wondering about taxes - Washington doesn't have state income tax but you'll still owe federal taxes on unemployment benefits. You can have them withhold 10% or pay quarterly.
The benefit amount is one thing but actually getting approved and getting your first payment is a whole other nightmare. My claim has been in adjudication for 6 weeks.
I've tried everything. Can't get through on the phone, online messages get generic responses. Starting to think I need to hire someone to call for me.
Actually that Claimyr service might be exactly what you need. They specialize in getting through to Washington ESD for adjudication issues and claim status problems.
Aaliyah Jackson
One more thing to consider - if you were working part-time and are looking for full-time work, make sure to indicate that on your application. You might qualify for benefits even if you find another part-time job, as long as your earnings are below a certain threshold.
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Rudy Cenizo
•Interesting! I didn't know you could potentially get partial benefits while working part-time. That's really good to know.
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KylieRose
•Yeah it's called partial unemployment. Pretty helpful if you can only find part-time work while searching for full-time employment.
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Miguel Hernández
UPDATE: I finally got through using Claimyr and filed my claim! Turns out I do qualify and should receive my first payment next week. The agent confirmed that my 4 months of earnings were more than enough to meet the requirement. Thanks everyone for the help and advice!
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Miguel Hernández
•They got me connected to an agent within about 15 minutes. So much better than the hours I wasted trying to call on my own.
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Sasha Ivanov
•Glad it worked out! Now you just need to keep up with your weekly claims and job search requirements.
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