This is actually covered in IRS Publication 525 under "Repayments." I think its called the "claim of right doctrine" or something like that. Basiaclly since you received it in 2023 and thought it was yours at the time, you have to report it on your 2023 taxes. Then when you repay in 2024, you get either the deduction or credit in 2024. The credit is definitely better if your repayment is over $3000, which yours is. I use TurboTax, not FreeTaxUSA, but I'm pretty sure any tax software can handle this for your 2024 taxes. I just wouldn't trust their customer support reps to know all the details on stuff like this.

To summarize what others have said, but with a bit more tax code specificity: 1. For 2023: Report the full amount from your 1099-G ($8,200) 2. For 2024: You'll have two options since your repayment was over $3,000: a. Take an itemized deduction on Schedule A (less favorable) b. Take a tax credit under IRC Section 1341 for the tax you paid on that income in 2023 (more favorable) FreeTaxUSA should handle the basic reporting for 2023 just fine. For 2024, you might need more help with the Section 1341 credit. I'd recommend saving about $200-300 for professional tax help next year unless you're very comfortable with tax calculations.

Just wanted to follow up - after you visit WorkSource, make sure to get the name of the person who assists you and request that they document your visit in your claim notes. This creates a paper trail showing your efforts to resolve the issue. Additionally, if it's been 10 weeks, you might qualify for a hardship expedition based on your housing situation. Specifically mention to both your state representative and WorkSource that you're facing potential eviction. This can sometimes fast-track your claim review.

good luck tomorrow at WorkSource! just a heads up you might want to get there when they open, sometimes theres a wait and they can only help a certain number of people each day. i had to wait like 2 hours but it was worth it

I hate to be that person but double check everything ESD does. When I won my appeal they still messed up my payments. They only paid 4 of the 7 weeks I was owed. Had to call multiple times to get it fixed. Screenshot everything and keep detailed notes of every conversation with them!!!

Update us when you get paid! I'm curious if processing times have improved since my experience last year. Also congrats on working with ULP - they're amazing! They helped my brother with his appeal too.

That's great news! This is exactly why it's so important to check all sections of your eServices account regularly. Now that you've found the issue, here's what you should do:\n\n1. Respond to their request with all the details they're asking for\n2. After submitting your response, wait 3-5 business days\n3. If your status doesn't change to \

I just submitted all the information they requested with as much detail as possible. Really hoping this gets things moving! Thank you all for the help - I'll update once there's any change in my claim status.

A doctor's note would absolutely strengthen your case. Medical documentation supporting your need for time off that led to the separation will directly address the "good cause" requirement. I'd recommend getting that documentation as soon as possible and submitting it as additional evidence for your appeal. You can submit additional evidence up until the hearing date, but earlier is always better.

ER discharge papers are excellent documentation and will definitely help your case. If possible, also get a brief note from your doctor stating that the condition required you to request time off. For the hearing itself, be prepared to clearly explain: 1) You had a medical emergency (kidney infection requiring ER treatment), 2) You requested time off for this legitimate reason, and 3) Your employer responded by telling you not to return (which your text messages prove). This creates a very clear narrative supporting that you had good cause and did not quit voluntarily.