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Just want to add that the benefit calculator on the Washington ESD website is pretty accurate. I used it before filing and my actual weekly amount was within $20 of what it estimated.
Bottom line - if you're eligible, the benefits in Washington are decent enough to help while you job search. Just be prepared for potential delays and have your documentation ready.
One more thing - if you move to a different state while collecting Washington unemployment, you might owe state income tax in your new state even though Washington doesn't have one. Just something to consider.
Just to close this out - I successfully changed my tax withholding election online through the Washington ESD website. Took about 5 minutes once I logged into SecureAccess Washington. The change will take effect with my next payment.
School employees have special rules too. If you work for a school district, you might not be eligible during summer break or other regular non-work periods.
If anyone is still having trouble reaching Washington ESD to discuss their specific situation, I highly recommend Claimyr. I used it twice - once to check on my initial claim and again when I had questions about my job search requirements. Much easier than spending hours on hold.
Bottom line: File Sunday, expect money Tuesday/Wednesday. If it doesn't come by Wednesday, check your claim status online and call your bank. If that doesn't solve it, then worry about Washington ESD issues.
Savannah Weiner
Don't forget about taxes on your unemployment benefits. Washington doesn't tax unemployment but the federal government does. You can choose to have taxes withheld or pay them later when you file your tax return.
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Molly Hansen
•Should I have taxes withheld or pay them later?
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Savannah Weiner
•Depends on your situation, but having them withheld saves you from a big tax bill later. You can always change the election if your circumstances change.
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Levi Parker
File your claim this week if possible. Benefits are backdated to when you first became unemployed, but only if you file within a reasonable time. Don't wait thinking you'll find a job quickly - you can always stop claiming if you find work.
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Molly Hansen
•That's good advice. I was thinking about waiting to see if I could find something quickly, but you're right that I can always stop if I find work.
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Levi Parker
•Exactly. And if you do find work while collecting benefits, just make sure to report any wages on your weekly claims. Working part-time while on unemployment is allowed as long as you report it.
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