Washington Unemployment
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Who qualifies for unemployment in Washington - confused about eligibility requirements
I'm trying to figure out if I qualify for unemployment benefits through Washington ESD but the eligibility requirements seem really confusing. I was laid off from my retail job last month after working there for 8 months. Before that I had a part-time job for about 6 months. I've been working in Washington for the past 2 years total but not sure if that's enough work history. Do I need to have worked a certain number of hours or earned a minimum amount? Also heard something about needing to be 'able and available' for work - what does that actually mean? Any help understanding who qualifies would be really appreciated.
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Washington ESD - are you eligible for unemployment if fired from your job?
I got terminated from my retail job last week for being late too many times (honestly it was only like 6 times in 3 months but whatever). My manager said it was 'job abandonment' but I was never a no-show, just running 10-15 minutes behind because of bus issues. Can I still file for unemployment benefits with Washington ESD or does getting fired automatically disqualify you? I've been working for 2 years straight before this happened and really need the income while I look for something new.
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Final advice: File immediately, be completely honest, document everything about your transportation situation, and don't get discouraged if you're initially denied. The appeal process exists for exactly these kinds of situations where the circumstances are complex.
Thank you so much for all the detailed advice. I'm feeling much more confident about filing now.
This has been a really informative thread. Good luck with your claim!
Just to close this out - getting fired for tardiness due to public transportation issues is definitely not an automatic disqualification. You have a legitimate shot at benefits, especially if you can document the transportation problems were beyond your control.
I really appreciate everyone taking the time to help. Going to file my claim this afternoon and gather all my documentation about the bus issues.
Keep us posted on how it goes! These threads help other people in similar situations.
Washington ESD unemployment compensation taxable for 2023 federal taxes?
I received unemployment benefits from Washington ESD throughout most of 2023 after getting laid off from my tech job in February. Just starting to think about tax season and I'm confused about whether my UI payments are considered taxable income for federal purposes. I got around $18,500 total in benefits last year. Washington ESD didn't automatically withhold federal taxes from my weekly claims - should I be worried about owing a bunch when I file? Anyone know how unemployment compensation gets treated on federal returns for the 2023 tax year?
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One thing I learned the hard way - if you moved states during 2023 while receiving unemployment, make sure you understand which state's taxes apply. Can get complicated fast.
Good point. I moved from California to Washington during my unemployment period and that created some confusion with my tax situation.
Bottom line for everyone - unemployment compensation is ordinary income for federal tax purposes in 2023. No special treatment like there was in 2020. Plan accordingly and consider having taxes withheld if you're still receiving benefits.
Perfect summary. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this discussion. Really helpful stuff.
Washington ESD unemployment benefits after getting fired - what qualifies?
I got fired from my job last week and I'm wondering if I can still get unemployment benefits through Washington ESD. My manager said it was for poor performance but I think it was really because I complained about safety issues. I've been working for 3 years and never had any write-ups before this. Does getting fired automatically disqualify you from UI benefits in Washington? I'm really stressed about this because I have rent due next week and no savings.
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Make sure to file online through the Washington ESD website as soon as possible. The sooner you file, the sooner your benefit year starts. Even if there's adjudication, you'll get backpay from your filing date if approved.
I'll file today. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice and encouragement!
Good luck with your claim! Remember that getting fired doesn't automatically disqualify you - it all depends on the specific circumstances. Based on what you've described, you have a good chance of being approved.
Thank you! I feel much more confident about applying now after reading all these responses.
How long can you get Washington ESD unemployment benefits?
I just got laid off from my job at a manufacturing plant and I'm trying to figure out how long Washington ESD unemployment benefits last. I've heard different things from coworkers - some say 6 months, others say it depends on how much you worked. I've been at my job for about 2 years making decent money. Does anyone know the actual time limits for regular UI benefits in Washington? I need to plan my job search timeline and budget accordingly.
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Bottom line - plan for 26 weeks maximum but hope you find work sooner. Use the time to really improve your skills and network, not just send out applications randomly.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! This gives me a much better idea of what to expect.
One last thing - keep all your documentation about job searches, interviews, etc. Washington ESD can audit your claim at any time and you need to prove you were actively looking for work during every week you claimed benefits.
Good point. I'll make sure to keep detailed records of everything.
Exactly. Better to over-document than get hit with an overpayment demand later because you couldn't prove your job search activities.
Victoria Jones
One last tip - keep detailed records of your job search activities from day one. Even if you're not sure you qualify yet, start documenting job applications and contacts. Washington ESD can ask for this information going back to when you first became unemployed.
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Chloe Delgado
AuthorGreat advice! I'll start keeping a log right away.
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Jacob Lee
Yes, and use the WorkSourceWA website to track your job search activities. It integrates with your unemployment claim.
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Cameron Black
Hope this all works out for you! The unemployment system can be overwhelming but you seem to have good work history and a valid reason for filing. Stay persistent if you run into any roadblocks.
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Chloe Delgado
AuthorThank you! I really appreciate all the support and advice from everyone here.
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