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Remember that unemployment benefits are considered taxable income, so you'll get a 1099-G form at the end of the year. Plan accordingly for tax time, especially if you don't have taxes withheld from your benefits.
The whole process seems complicated but it's really not that bad once you get started. The key is to file as soon as you lose your job and be honest about everything. Washington ESD will figure out your benefit amount and let you know what you qualify for.
The good news is that most terminations for performance reasons get approved. Washington ESD knows the difference between someone who can't do the job and someone who willfully violated rules. You'll probably be fine, especially with no prior warnings.
One more thing - if you do need to talk to someone at Washington ESD and can't get through on the phone, I had success with Claimyr too. It's frustrating when you're dealing with a claim issue and can't reach anyone for help. Their automated calling system actually works.
Several people have mentioned Claimyr now. Might be worth checking out if I run into problems.
One more thing - if you had any documentation about your performance issues (emails, performance reviews, etc.), keep copies. If your employer contests the claim, having your own records can help your case.
UPDATE: I just wanted to thank everyone for the advice. I filed my claim yesterday and got a confirmation number. Now I guess I wait to see what happens. Keeping my fingers crossed!
my cousin got disqualified because she was going to school full time and washington esd said she wasnt available for work. didnt know that was even a thing
Full-time students can sometimes still qualify if they meet certain criteria about availability for work. It's not an automatic disqualification but adds complications to the claim.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I'm going to gather my documentation and file an appeal. Also going to try that Claimyr service to get more details about what exactly my employer reported. This thread has been way more helpful than anything I found on the Washington ESD website.
Nadia Zaldivar
Also worth mentioning that certain groups have special considerations - veterans, people with disabilities, victims of domestic violence. If any of those apply to you, there might be additional support available.
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Lukas Fitzgerald
•Where can you find info about those special programs?
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Nadia Zaldivar
•The Washington ESD website has sections for each group, or you can ask when you call their customer service line.
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Ev Luca
Bottom line - if you think you might qualify, just apply. The worst that happens is they say no, but if you do qualify, those benefits can really help bridge the gap while you look for more work or wait for your hours to pick back up.
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Dananyl Lear
•You're right, I should just go for it. Better to try than wonder what if.
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Avery Davis
•Exactly! And even if there are issues with your claim, they can usually be resolved. Just don't wait too long to apply.
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