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Thanks everyone for all the helpful info in this thread. I learned a lot just from reading through all the responses. The Washington ESD system is confusing but at least there are people willing to share their experiences.
One last tip - if you do start collecting both, keep really good records of everything. Dates, amounts, job searches, everything. Makes life easier if Washington ESD ever has questions later.
This whole thread has been super helpful. I was in the same boat as OP - knew unemployment existed but had no idea how it actually worked. Now I feel like I have a basic understanding of what to expect.
One last tip from someone who's been through it - keep detailed records of everything. Every application you submit, every contact you make, every communication with Washington ESD. You never know when you'll need to reference something.
The waiting period can be frustrating but use that time wisely to get familiar with the system, set up your job search tracking method, and understand all the requirements. Better to be over-prepared than scrambling later when you're already stressed about being unemployed.
Just want to echo what others have said about accuracy being crucial. Double and triple check all your employer information, wages, and dates before submitting. Any mistakes can cause significant delays in getting your benefits started, and nobody wants to deal with that stress when they're already dealing with job loss.
Hope everything works out for you! Most people get through the process fine, it's just the ones with problems that you hear about more often.
Amara Nwosu
This thread is so helpful! I had no idea unemployment was fully taxable. I've been getting benefits for 2 months and haven't had any taxes withheld. Going to change that immediately.
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AstroExplorer
•Smart move! Better to have too much withheld and get a refund than owe money you don't have.
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Amara Nwosu
•Exactly, I'd rather be safe than sorry after reading about everyone owing thousands.
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Giovanni Moretti
Final tip: keep track of any job search expenses, they might be deductible. Things like resume printing, travel to interviews, job fair fees, etc. Every little bit helps when you're dealing with tax liability from unemployment benefits.
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Giovanni Moretti
•Yeah, if you itemize deductions there are several job-hunting related expenses that qualify. Worth looking into.
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Fatima Al-Farsi
•Though with the higher standard deduction now, not as many people itemize anymore. Still worth calculating both ways.
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