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If you get denied for any reason, don't panic. You have the right to appeal the decision. I got initially denied due to a paperwork error but won my appeal and got all my back benefits.
Quick summary for the OP: 1) File online ASAP at esd.wa.gov 2) File weekly claims every week 3) Keep detailed job search records 4) Respond quickly to any ESD requests 5) Be patient but persistent. You've got this!
My cousin is going through this right now too and she said Washington ESD told her that even gig work or part-time jobs can help you qualify for a new claim if you earn enough. Might be worth considering while you keep looking for full-time work.
Bottom line is you need accurate information about your specific situation, not just general advice. Whether it's calling Washington ESD directly or using a service like Claimyr to get through, make sure you understand your options before your benefits actually end.
bottom line - its not welfare or charity. you paid for it, your employers paid for it, and you earned the right to collect it when you lost your job through no fault of your own. end of story.
This whole thread has been super educational. Never really thought about the mechanics behind unemployment funding before but it makes total sense now. Thanks for asking the question OP!
Just to add to the Claimyr discussion - I used their service last month when I needed to talk to someone about my claim status and it actually worked great. Was skeptical at first but it beats the alternative of never getting through.
The bottom line is yes, unemployment is taxable income and yes, you should either withhold taxes or set money aside. Don't wait until April to deal with this - you'll thank yourself later for planning ahead.
StellarSurfer
One more resource - the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries also handles misclassification cases from a different angle. Sometimes it helps to file with both agencies.
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Yara Abboud
•Thanks for all the help everyone! I feel like I have a clear path forward now.
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Sean Kelly
•Good luck! Keep us posted on how it goes.
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Zara Malik
Last tip - if you do need to call Washington ESD about your case, try that Claimyr thing people mentioned. The regular phone system is impossible to get through on, but having something call for you automatically makes a huge difference.
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Yara Abboud
•Yeah I'm definitely going to try that if I can't get through on my own. Thanks again everyone!
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