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If you run into any problems during the application process, don't panic. The system saves your progress so you can come back to it later. I had to restart mine like 3 times due to website issues.
Honestly the best thing I did was bookmark my Washington ESD account page and the weekly claim filing page. Makes it so much easier to find everything when I need it.
Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses! This thread answered my question perfectly and I'm sure it'll help other people who are confused about finding their UI number too.
This is why I hate the unemployment system - they make it so complicated that people who deserve benefits can't figure out if they qualify. Just another way to discourage people from applying.
Bottom line - if you've worked 8 months recently at a decent wage, you probably qualify. The system is designed to help people who have a recent work history, even if it's not perfect.
just remember that washington esd and federal unemployment tax are completely separate systems. you'll deal with washington esd quarterly and irs annually (unless you hit the $500 threshold
One more thing - if you're incorporated, make sure you're not paying FUTA on yourself if you're the owner. Different rules apply for corporate officers vs regular employees.
Mateo Martinez
Bottom line eligibility checklist: Lost job through no fault of your own ✓ Earned enough wages in base period ✓ Able and available for work ✓ Actively seeking work ✓ Legal to work in US ✓ If you check all those boxes, you should qualify.
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Natasha Petrova
•Perfect! I think I check all those boxes. Thanks for breaking it down so simply.
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Aisha Hussain
•Don't forget you also need to file weekly claims once you're approved and report any income you earn while collecting benefits!
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Ethan Clark
If anyone's still confused about whether they qualify, honestly just call Washington ESD or use something like Claimyr to talk to an agent. I tried to figure it out myself for days and got more confused. One phone call cleared everything up and I was able to file that same day.
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Natasha Petrova
•Yeah I think I'm going to stop overthinking and just file. Worst case they say no and I'm back where I started.
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StarStrider
•Exactly! And if they do say no, they'll tell you why so you know what you need to do differently next time.
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