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For future reference, you can also check your payment history in your ESD account. It shows when payments were issued and when they should hit your bank account. Super helpful for tracking the timeline.
Bottom line - if you just got approved and this is your first weekly claim, expect to wait until your second week of filing to see your first payment. After that, it's typically 2-3 business days from when you file your weekly claim.
Just want to add that having to choose between work and caring for family shouldn't put you in financial crisis. You did the right thing and Washington state recognizes that with these protections. Fight for what you're entitled to.
One more thing - if Washington ESD denies your initial claim, don't give up! You have the right to appeal and many compelling circumstances cases get approved on appeal even if they're denied initially. The appeals process gives you more opportunity to present your full situation.
Good to know there's a backup plan if the first decision doesn't go my way. How long do you have to file an appeal?
this whole thread has been really educational. i'm in a similar situation with washington esd unemployment and taxes so thanks everyone for sharing your experiences
Just wanted to add that if you received unemployment from multiple states (like if you moved), the tax situation gets more complicated. But since you only dealt with Washington ESD, you're in good shape.
I've been through this whole process and the best advice I can give is to call Washington ESD directly if you have questions about your calculation. They can walk you through exactly how they came up with your amount.
Bottom line is that benefit calculations can be complex and there are lots of factors that can affect your amount. If you're not sure about yours, it's worth getting clarification from Washington ESD rather than just accepting it and potentially missing out on benefits you're entitled to.
Edison Estevez
Just to add - if you end up owing more than $1,000 when you file and didn't pay enough during the year, you might get hit with an underpayment penalty. It's usually not huge but something to be aware of.
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Myles Regis
•How much is the penalty usually? I'm starting to think I should definitely set up withholding or make a payment soon.
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Edison Estevez
•It varies but usually a few hundred dollars depending on how much you owe and when you pay it. Better to just start withholding now and avoid the penalty altogether.
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Emily Nguyen-Smith
I had a similar situation and ended up talking to a tax preparer about it. They said the safest approach is to withhold 10% federal and then make a small estimated payment each quarter if you think you'll still owe more. Covers your bases without overwithholding.
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James Johnson
•That sounds like a good strategy. Better to be safe than sorry when it comes to taxes.
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Myles Regis
•Yeah I think I'm going to start having them withhold 10% immediately and then maybe make a quarterly payment to be extra safe. Thanks everyone for all the advice!
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