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The hardest part for me was understanding the difference between gross and net benefits. They calculate based on gross wages but your weekly benefit is what you actually receive (before taxes if you choose to withhold).
One more tip - if you have any issues with your payments or account, document everything. Date, time, who you talked to, what they said. It'll save you headaches later if something goes wrong.
Make sure you're also checking with your county's social services department. They often have additional programs beyond the state ones.
Been there, it sucks. Just remember that this is temporary. Keep applying for jobs and take whatever help you can get to survive until you find something.
Your roommate should also start looking for work right away and keep a job search log. Even if her claim gets approved, she'll need to show she's actively seeking employment to continue receiving benefits.
Bottom line: she should absolutely apply. Being fired doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits. The Washington ESD will review the circumstances and make a decision. Better to apply and potentially get approved than not apply and definitely get nothing.
just want to add that if you got unemployment in 2022 you definitely need to report it even if you think you don't owe taxes. the IRS gets a copy of your 1099-G from washington esd so they'll know if you don't report it
For what it's worth, I had a very similar situation - unemployment for about 6 months in 2022 with federal taxes withheld. I ended up getting back about 75% of what was withheld because my total income was pretty low. So there's a good chance you'll get a decent refund.
Jayden Hill
Keep in mind the $999 max is for people who were making like $70K+ annually. Most people get way less than that. But even getting $400-500/week is better than the $250-300 you'd get in many other states.
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Mia Alvarez
•That makes me feel a bit better about my $485. Still tight but could be worse I guess.
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LordCommander
•Exactly, and remember it's temporary. The point is to give you something while you find your next job, not replace your full income forever.
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Lucy Lam
has anyone dealt with the standby status stuff? my employer said they might call me back in a few months but i'm not sure if i should file for regular unemployment or wait
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Lucy Lam
•they said 'maybe in 2-3 months' so probably not definite enough for standby then
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Aidan Hudson
•Yeah that's too vague for standby status. File regular UI and start looking for other work.
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