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Washington ESD is so backed up right now. I filed 3 weeks ago and still haven't heard anything back about my claim. Even when you qualify, actually getting benefits can take forever.
That's exactly why I used Claimyr when my claim got stuck. Being able to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD about what was happening with my case was a huge relief.
Thanks everyone for all the advice. Sounds like I need to be really careful about how I handle this situation. Going to document everything and maybe talk to HR first before making any big decisions.
Smart approach. Remember you can always apply for UI benefits later if the situation doesn't improve, but you want to do it from the strongest position possible.
Start your application as soon as possible! Benefits are only paid from the date you apply, not from when you lost your job. Every day you wait is money you can't get back.
Good luck with your claim! The process seems overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine of filing weekly claims it becomes pretty straightforward. Just stay on top of the job search requirements and keep good records.
Just wanted to update - I tried Claimyr this morning after reading about it here and got connected to a Washington ESD agent in about 10 minutes. They fixed my certification problem immediately and I was able to file my weekly claim. Definitely recommend it if you're stuck.
Don't forget you can also try calling the Washington ESD customer service line early in the morning right when they open. Sometimes you can get through before the lines get too busy.
Does anyone know if seasonal work counts the same as regular work for the earnings requirements? I did some seasonal retail work last winter before my current job.
The whole thing about base periods and quarters is confusing but basically if you've been working regularly for more than 6 months you're probably good. The real challenge comes when you actually need to file and deal with Washington ESD's systems and phone lines.
Yeah it sounds like actually getting through to them is the bigger problem than qualifying. Hopefully I won't need to find out anytime soon!
I used Claimyr when I had issues with my claim last year and it was a lifesaver. Worth checking out if you ever need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD without spending hours on hold.
Grace Lee
For anyone still confused about this - YES you have to report unemployment benefits on your taxes. It's federal taxable income just like wages. Don't skip reporting it or you'll get in trouble with the IRS later.
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Mia Roberts
•This is important advice. The IRS gets copies of all 1099-G forms so they know exactly how much unemployment you received.
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Alexander Zeus
•Thanks everyone for all the helpful information. I feel much more confident about filing my taxes now.
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The Boss
One more tip - if you end up owing taxes on your unemployment benefits and can't pay the full amount, the IRS has payment plan options. Don't just ignore it if you owe money.
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Evan Kalinowski
•Good point. It's better to file your return and set up a payment plan than to not file at all.
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Victoria Charity
•You can set up payment plans online through the IRS website too. Pretty convenient.
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