Can I get a loan with Washington ESD unemployment benefits as income?

That makes sense I guess. Do you know any specific credit unions in Washington that might work with unemployment income?

Try BECU or Sound Credit Union. They tend to be more understanding of temporary situations. Just be honest about your unemployment status and have your benefit documentation ready.

Really? That's encouraging! How much documentation did they want? Did you need to show your job search activities too?

Just needed screenshots of my Washington ESD account showing the weekly benefit amounts and payment dates. They didn't care about job search stuff, just wanted to verify the income was consistent.

How long did the approval process take? I'm in a similar situation and time is kind of important for me.

I hadn't thought about asking Washington ESD about assistance programs. That Claimyr thing sounds interesting too - I've been trying to call them about something else but can never get through.

Yeah the phone lines are always jammed. I've heard good things about that Claimyr service helping people actually reach agents instead of getting hung up on constantly.

You're absolutely right. I'm actively job searching and have some interviews lined up, so hopefully I'll be back to work soon. The medical bills just can't wait unfortunately.

Smart to think ahead. Document all your job search activities properly for Washington ESD too. You don't want any issues with your weekly claims while you're dealing with loan payments.

I've never heard of PALs before. Are those available in Washington state?

Yes, most federal credit unions offer them. The loan amounts are smaller but the approval requirements are more flexible. Worth checking with any credit union you're eligible to join.

That's a good point about it being taxable income. I'll try emphasizing that when I apply places.

Just remember you'll owe taxes on those benefits at the end of the year. Factor that into your budget planning too.

Do you know where I can find information about those programs? I've been so focused on the loan option I haven't looked into assistance programs.

Start with Washington 211 (dial 2-1-1) or check the DSHS website. They can connect you with local resources and emergency assistance programs that might help with medical bills.

Also check with the hospital or medical provider directly. Many have financial hardship programs or payment plans that don't require loans.

How was the interest rate? And did you have any problems with the application process?

Interest was definitely higher than if I had regular employment, but not terrible. Application was pretty straightforward - they just wanted to verify the income was consistent and reliable.

Yeah I definitely want to avoid those predatory lenders. Hoping one of these other options works out.

Good thinking. Those places prey on people in desperate situations. Stick with real banks and credit unions.

I've thought about it but I'm trying to keep family out of it if possible. I'd rather go through a proper lender and keep things professional.

I understand that completely. Sometimes borrowing from family creates more problems than it solves.

I think I'm going to try that. I've been meaning to call Washington ESD about something else anyway and can never get through the normal way.

Yeah their regular phone system is basically useless. At least with Claimyr you can actually talk to someone who can give you real information.

Good advice. I've been taking screenshots of my Washington ESD account each week anyway, so I have that documentation ready.

Absolutely. I've done the math and I can handle a reasonable monthly payment. The medical bills are just too big to pay all at once.

Smart approach. Better to be conservative with loan amounts when you're on unemployment. You never know what other expenses might come up.

Will do! I'm going to try a few of the suggestions from this thread over the next few days and I'll post back with results.