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Bottom line: file your claim, be honest about what happened, keep filing your weekly claims, and don't give up if you get initially denied. Most people who get fired for performance reasons end up getting approved once Washington ESD investigates.
Just wanted to add that you should also start looking for work right away and keep track of your job search activities. Even if your claim is in adjudication, you'll need to meet the work search requirements once it's approved.
Washington state has some of the better unemployment protections in the country. You should be fine as long as you follow the rules and file everything on time.
Best of luck with everything! Company closures are tough but it sounds like you're being smart about planning ahead. This community has given you great advice.
To summarize the main disqualifying factors: voluntary quit without good cause, misconduct firing, insufficient work history, not able/available for work, refusing suitable work, fraud, and various income issues. But remember - most disqualifications can be appealed and many people win their appeals with proper documentation.
glad this thread helped! the whole unemployment system is so complicated but at least now you know what to watch out for. definitely file if you think you qualify - worst case they say no and you appeal
Don't forget to consider the tax implications when budgeting. Even though unemployment benefits are taxable, you might end up in a lower tax bracket if it's your only income for part of the year.
Bottom line - your benefit amount depends on your earnings history, but for part-time work at $18/hour, you're probably looking at somewhere between $300-400 per week. The exact amount will depend on your specific wage pattern over the base period.
Isabel Vega
Also keep in mind that you'll need to file a weekly claim every week to keep getting benefits, even if the amount doesn't change. It's easy to forget but missing a week can cause delays.
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Dominique Adams
•Yeah and those weekly claims ask about your job search activities, any work you did, and if you were able and available for work. Don't skip questions.
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Marilyn Dixon
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but unemployment benefits are taxable income federally. Washington doesn't tax it, but the IRS sure does. Plan accordingly!
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Isaiah Cross
•Someone mentioned that earlier - I'll definitely have them withhold federal taxes. Thanks for the reminder!
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Marilyn Dixon
•Smart move. A lot of people get surprised by a big tax bill if they don't plan for it.
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