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The system really wasn't designed with the gig economy in mind. Hopefully they'll update the rules eventually to better reflect how people actually work now.
The system has definitely improved since the pandemic chaos, but it's still not perfect. At least now you can actually get through the application process without the website crashing every few minutes.
True, but the phone system is still a disaster. I spent 6 hours total on hold last week trying to get a simple question answered.
That's exactly the problem Claimyr solves. No more sitting on hold for hours just to talk to someone about your claim.
Just want to add that if you worked for the federal government or military, your eligibility might be handled differently. There are special programs for federal employees and ex-service members.
OP, based on what you've described (layoff, 2 years employment, no issues), you should definitely be approved. The process just takes time and Washington ESD doesn't give much feedback while they're processing. Hang in there!
Just to wrap up - the key things to remember about Washington ESD benefit calculations: they use your highest quarter from the base period, apply a rate based on your total earnings, cap it at the maximum ($999 currently), and the result determines both your weekly amount and total benefit year eligibility.
QuantumLeap
Update: I was able to log into my Washington ESD account and set up the 10% federal tax withholding. It was actually pretty easy to find once I knew where to look. Thanks again everyone for the advice!
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Freya Larsen
•Awesome! You're way ahead of where I was at this point in my unemployment.
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Ravi Sharma
•Perfect! Now you can focus on your job search without worrying about a surprise tax bill later.
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Aisha Abdullah
This thread should be pinned or something. I bet tons of people don't realize unemployment benefits are taxable until it's too late.
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QuantumLeap
•Seriously! I'm just glad I found out about it now instead of next April.
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Isabella Santos
•Yeah this is definitely one of those things they should make more obvious when you first apply for benefits.
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