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For anyone doing the math - if you receive the maximum weekly benefit in Washington ($929) and have 10% withheld, that's about $4,830 in federal taxes over a full year of benefits. Just to give you an idea of the scale.
Don't forget that if you receive unemployment benefits, you might also qualify for tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit, depending on your total income for the year. Sometimes people focus too much on the taxes owed and forget about potential credits.
honestly the whole system is confusing but from what i understand getting fired doesnt automatically disqualify you. they look at why you got fired not just that you got fired
File your claim this week! There's a waiting period anyway so the sooner you get the process started the better. Even if it goes to adjudication you'll get back pay for the weeks you were eligible once it's approved.
Make sure you understand the difference between being able to work and available for work. Able means physically and mentally capable. Available means you're not restricting yourself in ways that limit job opportunities - like only wanting to work certain hours or refusing to commute reasonable distances.
Final piece of advice - don't let small mistakes or confusion derail you. The system isn't perfect and sometimes things don't work exactly as described online. Stay persistent, ask questions, and remember that Washington ESD agents are there to help even if they're hard to reach sometimes. You'll get through this!
Bottom line - if you've been working regularly for the past year or two, you almost certainly qualify. The earnings threshold isn't that high and you just need wages in 2 quarters. Don't stress too much about it.
Natasha Kuznetsova
Thanks for asking this question! I've been wondering about the same thing and all these responses have been really helpful. I feel much more confident about taking on some part-time work now.
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CosmicCadet
•Glad it helped you too! I was nervous about asking but it seems like a lot of people have the same question.
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Natasha Kuznetsova
•Yeah, it's one of those things that isn't explained very clearly on the Washington ESD website. Having real people share their experiences makes it much clearer.
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Nasira Ibanez
Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I feel much more confident about taking the part-time job now. I'll make sure to report everything accurately and keep looking for full-time work. This thread has been more helpful than anything I found on the Washington ESD website.
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Alberto Souchard
•Glad we could help! That's what this community is for. Good luck with the job search.
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Micah Trail
•Yeah, keep us posted on how it goes. And remember that Claimyr option if you need to reach Washington ESD for any reason.
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