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One more thing to consider - if you received unemployment benefits and also had a job during the same year, make sure your total withholding covers both income sources. I got hit with underpayment penalties because I didn't adjust my W-4 when I started working again.
For what it's worth, I used Claimyr last month to get through to Washington ESD about a different issue and they were able to help me access my 1099-G online. Much faster than trying to call myself. The website is claimyr.com if anyone needs it.
This whole thread has been super informative. Bookmarking in case I ever need this info. Hope everything works out for everyone dealing with tax issues!
One last tip for anyone reading this later - keep detailed records of all your communications with the IRS. Date, time, who you spoke with, what was discussed. If there are any disputes later you'll need that documentation.
Just want to say hang in there OP. I know it's stressful not knowing when money will come. Most people do get their first payment within 2-3 weeks if there are no complications. Keep filing those weekly claims and check your account regularly for any messages from Washington ESD.
One more thing - if you need to contact Washington ESD for any reason, definitely try Claimyr or similar services. I wasted literally days trying to get through their phone system before giving up. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get answers about your specific situation.
Just want to remind everyone to keep filing your weekly claims even if you're getting close to 26 weeks. Don't assume you're cut off until Washington ESD tells you.
Ava Rodriguez
For anyone still confused, the key things to remember: 1) Base year is specific quarters, not just your last job, 2) Highest quarter earnings determine your weekly amount, 3) There are minimum and maximum limits, 4) Keep your pay records in case there are discrepancies. Hope this helps!
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Diego Mendoza
•Perfect summary! Saving this comment for future reference.
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Miguel Diaz
•Wish they taught this stuff in school instead of having to figure it out when you need unemployment benefits
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Zainab Ahmed
One last tip - if you think Washington ESD calculated your benefits wrong, you can appeal the determination. You have 30 days from when you receive the letter to file an appeal. Don't wait if you think there's an error!
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Diego Mendoza
•Good to know! My calculation seems right now that I understand it, but that's important info for others.
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Connor Gallagher
•Yeah appeals are definitely worth it if the numbers don't add up. I successfully appealed when they missed wages from one of my employers.
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