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Just do it tonight. Stop overthinking. The worst they can do is deny you and then you appeal. But you'll never know if you qualify unless you try.
Filed mine about a week after getting fired and wished I had done it sooner. Every day counts when you're out of work and need that income.
If anyone else is having trouble reaching ESD about tax withholding, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier actually worked for me too. Got through in about 45 minutes when I'd been trying to call for days.
One more thing - keep records of any taxes you pay or have withheld on your unemployment. You'll need those records when you file, and it helps if the IRS ever has questions later.
Thanks for this thread everyone! Really helped me understand how my $423 weekly amount was calculated. Turns out my high quarter was $10,998 so $423 is exactly right.
One last tip - keep copies of everything! Your monetary determination, pay stubs, W-2s, etc. You never know when you might need to reference them if there are questions about your claim later.
The job search requirement is really important. I know someone who got disqualified because they weren't keeping proper records of their job search activities.
Miguel Silva
The whole base period system is so outdated. Why can't they just use your most recent earnings like every other program?
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Jamal Wilson
•The base period system exists to ensure there's enough time for employers to report wages and for the state to verify earnings. Using more recent wages would actually create more delays and errors in the system.
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Zainab Ismail
At least Washington's benefits are decent compared to some states. $999 max is pretty good.
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Zoe Papanikolaou
•True, I've heard some states have much lower maximums. Even if I don't get the full amount, it should help cover basic expenses.
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