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I've been trying to get my 1099-G form from 2021 for my taxes and it's driving me crazy! Every time I try to log into eServices it says my password is wrong, then when I reset it I get locked out completely. Called the ESD number but after waiting 2 hours it disconnected me. Has anyone successfully gotten their old tax forms? The IRS is breathing down my neck because I had unemployment in 2021 and I need to report that income. Any help would be REALLY appreciated!!!
I'm in a tough spot and hoping someone can help me figure this out. My ESD account is showing that my benefits balance is nearly gone - I got less than half of my normal weekly payment this week. The system says I've essentially used up all my available funds, but my claim is supposedly active until October 2024 (another 7 months from now). I've been applying to jobs consistently (more than the required 3 per week) but haven't landed anything yet. The job market in my field (medical billing) seems really competitive right now. A friend mentioned something about an "unemployment extension" that I could apply for when benefits run out. Is this actually a thing? I've never had to use unemployment before this layoff, so I'm completely new to this whole process. If extensions do exist, how do I apply for one? Do I need to wait until my balance hits zero first? Really worried about how I'll make rent next month if I can't figure this out fast.
i went thru this last month. trust me, apply for everything - food stamps, energy assistance, rental assistance - BEFORE ur benefits run out completely. the waitlists for some of these programs can be weeks long and you dont want to be stuck with nothing while waiting. also check out your local food banks, they usually dont have income requirements and can help stretch your budget.
I'm absolutely floored right now. After waiting a full 8 weeks in adjudication, ESD just denied my unemployment claim because I'm taking online classes?! The denial letter states I'm 'unable to look for work or be available to accept suitable employment' because of my schooling. This makes ZERO sense to me. My classes are 100% online, self-paced, and I'm attending a university literally across the country. I can do my coursework anytime! I've been actively job searching this whole time - I've documented over 70 job search activities in their system! I've had multiple interviews and am fully available for work. Has anyone else been denied for taking online classes? Did you appeal? This feels completely wrong and I need to figure out my next steps fast before I can't pay rent.
If you need help getting in touch with ESD before your appeal, try Claimyr (claimyr.com). It helped me get through when I was stuck in a similar situation with online classes. Before using it, I spent days trying to reach someone at ESD. With Claimyr, I got through in about 20 minutes and was able to speak directly with an agent who noted important details in my file before my appeal hearing. You can see how it works in their video demo: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3
It's completely legitimate. It's a call-back service that helps navigate ESD's phone system. Many people on this forum have used it successfully. Back to the main topic - when you file your appeal, be extremely specific about your school schedule. Don't just say it's "flexible" - provide your actual class schedule, assignment due dates, and explain exactly how you manage your time. Also request a copy of your complete claim file through a public records request before your hearing - this way you can see exactly what ESD is basing their decision on. The more prepared you are with specific evidence, the better your chances.
I've started writing my appeal letter and gathering documentation. My online program literally has no set class times - just weekly assignments I can complete anytime. I'm documenting all my job search activities too. The Unemployment Law Project got back to me and they're going to help with my case! I feel much more confident now. Thanks everyone for your guidance - I'll update when I have news about the appeal.
So my regular unemployment benefits ran out about 4 weeks ago. I've been job hunting like crazy but no luck so far in this economy. My family keeps insisting I should 'go back to unemployment' and reapply, but I'm pretty sure once you're exhausted that's it? I tried looking at the ESD website but got confused about whether there are any extension programs available in 2025 or if I'd qualify for a new claim period. Anyone know if there's anything ESD can do for me at this point or should I tell my family to back off? I worked full-time for 3 years before my layoff if that matters.
Just want to say I'm going through the exact same thing right now and it's TOUGH. My family also doesn't understand how unemployment works and thinks I'm just not trying hard enough to get benefits extended. The mental health toll of job searching with no income is real. Hang in there.
One more thing to consider - sometimes people qualify for a different type of claim than they initially thought. For example, if you worked for a federal employer or across multiple states, you might be eligible for a different type of claim. Or if you were misclassified as a contractor when you were actually an employee. It's worth speaking directly with ESD to explore ALL possibilities before assuming you're out of options.
My husband has been calling ESD for 2 weeks straight trying to resolve an issue with his claim, but can't get through to anyone. The automated system just disconnects him after saying 'high call volume' every single time. We're getting desperate because rent is due next week and his benefits have been pending for almost a month now. Can he just physically go to a WorkSource office to speak with someone directly about his unemployment claim? Has anyone had success doing this? Or is there another way to actually get a human on the phone?
Same thing happened to my brother and he tried going to WorkSource. They were nice but basically said sorry, can't help with that, we don't have access to the claims system. Such a waste of time.
For an expedite request, you can either: 1. Submit it through eServices by sending a secure message specifically stating "URGENT HARDSHIP EXPEDITE REQUEST" in the subject line and explaining the financial hardship (potential eviction, utilities being shut off, etc.) 2. If he can get through by phone, explicitly request an expedite due to financial hardship Regarding the employment verification issue - sometimes ESD has trouble reaching the previous employer to verify the termination. In these cases, providing additional documentation can help: - Final pay stub showing last day worked - Any correspondence with HR about the termination - Contact information for someone who can verify the separation (HR rep, manager) I'd recommend uploading any additional documentation he has and then mentioning the additional documents in the expedite request message.
Lauren Zeb
For anyone having trouble accessing past 1099-G forms, here's what you need to know: 1. For online access: Log in to your eServices account → go to your dashboard → click on the "1099G Tax Forms" link → select the year you need (2021) 2. If you're locked out of your account: Use the account recovery option, not just password reset. Go to secure.esd.wa.gov/home/ and click "Get Help" then "I forgot my username or password" 3. For phone requests: Call 866-697-4831 during less busy times (early morning Tuesday-Thursday) 4. You can also submit a written request with your personal details to ESD Records Disclosure Unit 5. If your address has changed since 2021, make sure to update it first or they might mail it to the wrong place Hope this helps someone!
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The Boss
AuthorThis is really helpful, thank you! I'll try the account recovery option instead of just password reset. I didn't realize there was a difference. And good point about the address - I did move in 2022 so I need to make sure they have my current info.
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The Boss
UPDATE: I finally got my 1099-G! Tried the account recovery option instead of just resetting my password (thanks for that tip!) and was able to get into eServices. For anyone else struggling with this - don't give up! And definitely save copies of everything for the future so you don't have to go through this again.
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Evan Kalinowski
Great news! Glad you were able to get what you needed. And yes, always download and save copies of your 1099-Gs as soon as they become available each January.
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Victoria Charity
woohoo! now you can deal with the fun of actually doing your taxes lol
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