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The uncertainty is the worst part. I remember checking my account obsessively every day waiting for some kind of update. Just try to stay busy with job searching and don't drive yourself crazy refreshing the page.
One last thing - make sure you understand the difference between FUTA taxable wages and regular wages for other payroll taxes. Some things that are subject to federal income tax withholding might not be subject to FUTA.
Thanks everyone for the help! This thread has been really informative. I feel much more confident about handling FUTA deposits now. And I'm definitely going to check out that Claimyr service for when I need to call government agencies - seems like it could save a lot of time and frustration.
This whole thread is making me realize I should have filed for unemployment when I got laid off last month. I thought the amount would be too small to bother with, but $300+ per week would have made a huge difference.
The job market for restaurant workers is actually pretty good right now if you're willing to be flexible about location and hours. A lot of places are still short-staffed from the pandemic aftermath.
Another tip - screenshot everything! Your claim status, payment confirmations, weekly filing confirmations. I've seen people have issues where the system didn't record something properly and having screenshots saved them a lot of hassle.
Overall just be patient but persistent. The system works but it's not always fast or intuitive. Stay on top of your requirements and don't hesitate to reach out for help if you get stuck on something. Most people get through the process just fine, it just takes longer than we'd all like!
Freya Larsen
The waiting week is gone now so you should get paid for your first week if you're approved. That changed a few years ago but some people still think there's a waiting period.
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StarSurfer
•Good to know! Every bit of money helps right now.
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GalacticGladiator
•Yeah, they eliminated the waiting week permanently. Much better than the old system.
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Omar Zaki
File your claim this week if possible. Benefits are calculated based on your earnings in your 'base year' which is usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters. The sooner you file, the sooner that gets established.
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StarSurfer
•I'm definitely filing today. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice - feeling much more confident about the process now.
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Chloe Taylor
•Good luck! Most people who file in good faith end up getting approved. Don't let the horror stories scare you too much.
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