Can I get a car loan while on Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

That's what I was afraid of. The rates I've seen are like 18-24% which seems insane.

Yeah those predatory lenders are rough but sometimes it's the only option when you need wheels

Don't really have anyone who could co-sign for me unfortunately. Did they require anything specific from Washington ESD besides the benefit determination letter?

They wanted my last 3 weekly claim confirmations and the original determination letter. Also had to show I was actively job searching to prove I wasn't just sitting around collecting benefits.

I didn't know WorkSource might help with transportation! I'll definitely look into that. Do you know if they have specific programs or is it case-by-case?

It varies by location but many offices have emergency transportation funds or bus passes. Some even partner with car donation programs.

This is smart advice. I got bus passes through WorkSource when I was between jobs. Saved me a lot of money.

Interesting, never heard of that service. How does it work exactly? Is it legit?

Yeah it's legit, they basically handle the calling and waiting for you so you don't have to sit on hold for hours. Really helpful when you need to talk to ESD about specific situations like yours.

I've used Claimyr too and it works great. Much better than trying to call Washington ESD yourself and getting hung up on.

Public transit is pretty limited where I live and Uber for job interviews would add up fast. Plus I need reliable transportation for when I do get hired.

Not everyone lives in areas with good public transportation. Sometimes you really do need a car to meet job search requirements.

That's actually not a bad idea. What kind of rate did you get on the personal loan?

Around 12% which wasn't great but better than the 20%+ the car dealers wanted. Went through my local credit union.

Credit unions are definitely the way to go if you can join one. Much better rates than banks or those sketchy car lots.

Wait, really? I had no idea they reimbursed job search expenses. Is there a form I need to fill out?

Yeah, look into the job search reimbursement program. You have to keep receipts and there are limits but it can help cover gas, parking, even interview clothes sometimes.

I've got about $2500 saved up but worried about buying something that old and having it break down again right away.

True, it's risky. Maybe look for something in the $2000 range and keep $500 for immediate repairs if needed?

this is probably the smartest option honestly. debt sucks especially when youre already struggling

Good point, I should definitely explore all the assistance options before taking on debt. Thanks for the suggestion.

211 is also a good resource - just dial 2-1-1 and they can connect you with local assistance programs.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already tight on money obviously.

It's pretty reasonable considering how much time and frustration it saves. Way better than spending hours on hold or getting disconnected constantly.

Yeah that's definitely something I'm worried about. My benefits run out in about 16 weeks so I need to be realistic about job prospects.

Smart thinking. Better to have reliable cheap transportation than get stuck with payments you can't make.

Never heard of that but definitely worth looking into! Thanks for all the suggestions everyone.

Yes! There are several car donation programs specifically for people getting back on their feet. Great suggestion.

It's definitely frustrating. You need a car to find work but can't get a car loan without work. Catch-22 situation.

The system definitely has gaps. That's why programs like WorkSource transportation assistance are so important.

Good plan! Those are definitely the smartest options. Hope you find something that works out.

Keep us posted on how it goes. Your situation might help someone else in the future.

And remember you can always use Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD if you need to discuss any of this with them directly!