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If you run into any issues or need to speak with Washington ESD directly, I'd recommend using Claimyr. I used it when I had questions about my specific situation and it worked great. Much better than spending hours on hold.
A couple people have mentioned Claimyr now. I think I'll check it out if I run into problems.
The bottom line is this: file your claim now while you're still able to work. Deal with future changes when they happen. You're overthinking it and potentially missing out on benefits you're entitled to.
The tax thing is definitely separate but just be aware that if you get a big unemployment payout, it might bump you into a higher tax bracket for this year. Plan accordingly so you're not surprised next April.
Bottom line - file your unemployment claim ASAP. Tax debt won't stop you from getting benefits and you need that income now more than you need to worry about what might happen later. Take care of immediate needs first.
One more tip - if you have any questions about specific requirements or your eligibility, don't guess. It's better to get clarification than to make mistakes that could delay your benefits or cause overpayment issues later.
The process isn't as scary as it seems once you get started. I was overwhelmed at first too but the Washington ESD website has step-by-step instructions. Just take it one step at a time and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
I tried using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and it actually worked! Got through to a Washington ESD rep in 2 days instead of the weeks I'd been trying. They explained my benefit calculation and where the funding comes from. Worth checking out if you need to talk to them.
Bottom line: unemployment benefits are insurance, not welfare. Your employer paid premiums, you earned eligibility through work, and you're collecting insurance when you lose your job. Don't let anyone make you feel bad about using insurance you earned.
Jake Sinclair
The whole misconduct vs performance distinction is key. Washington ESD's handbook is pretty clear that poor performance alone doesn't disqualify you unless it's willful or deliberate.
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Elliott luviBorBatman
•Where can I find that handbook? Might be good to read up on the specifics.
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Jake Sinclair
•It's on the Washington ESD website under their employer resources section. Good info about how they make these decisions.
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Brielle Johnson
Final thought - don't let employer intimidation tactics scare you away from filing. Some companies try to make fired employees think they can't get benefits, but that's not always true, especially for performance issues.
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Elliott luviBorBatman
•Thankfully my employer didn't say anything about benefits one way or the other. Just gave me my final paperwork and that was it.
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Brielle Johnson
•That's actually better. When employers stay neutral it usually means they don't plan to contest your claim.
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