Can W2 contractors get unemployment benefits in Washington?

That's great news! I was worried the contractor title would disqualify me. I'll start my application today.

Make sure you have all your W2s and pay stubs ready when you file. Washington ESD will need to verify your earnings history.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved? I'm hoping there won't be any delays since my situation might be confusing to them.

Mine took about 2 weeks to process. No adjudication or anything complicated. As long as your employer reported your wages correctly, you should be fine.

This is so confusing! My company calls everyone contractors but we all get W2s. Sounds like we're actually employees then?

Exactly right. The IRS classification matters more than what your employer calls you. W2 = employee, 1099 = contractor.

That sounds helpful! Did they charge you a lot for that service?

It was worth it to avoid the phone nightmare. Much better than wasting entire days trying to get through on my own.

Never heard of that but sounds sketchy to me. Why not just keep trying to call yourself?

Yes! The tax classification is what matters for unemployment eligibility, not what your contract says. If you got a W2 and had unemployment taxes deducted, you should qualify.

Mind blown. I've been missing out on potential benefits for years thinking I wasn't eligible.

Awesome! Glad it worked out. Don't forget to do your weekly claims on time once you're approved.

Great to hear! Make sure you start your job search activities right away since Washington ESD requires at least 3 job contacts per week.

It's a common misconception. The media often talks about '1099 contractors' and 'gig workers' not getting benefits, but W2 contractors are in a different category.

Same here! I've been a W2 contractor for 3 years and never knew this. Filing my claim tomorrow since my current contract is ending next week.

Good point. I'll make sure to keep track of my job search activities in the WorkSourceWA system.

Yes, and you'll need to report any contract work you do while collecting benefits. Even short-term gigs need to be reported.

What kind of extra documentation did he need to provide?

His pay stubs showing tax withholdings and a letter from his employer confirming his employee status. Took about 6 weeks total to resolve.

Yeah, there's a big difference between true independent contractors and employees labeled as contractors. The tax forms tell the real story.

Exactly. If they control your schedule, provide equipment, and treat you like an employee, you probably are one regardless of what they call you.

How does that work exactly? Do they just call for you or something?

They handle the calling process and get you connected when an agent is available. Check out their demo video to see how it works.

Please do! I wish I had known about this sooner. Could have filed for benefits during contract gaps in the past.

Same situation here. Better late than never to learn about these benefits we're entitled to.

That's good to know. I had two different W2 contractor positions last year, so hopefully that increases my weekly benefit amount.

Yes, Washington ESD looks at your highest earning quarter to calculate your benefits. More W2 income generally means higher benefits.

Good point about the pay stubs. I kept all mine showing the UI deductions, which made the application process straightforward.

I'm keeping all my documentation organized just in case they need additional verification later.

The tech industry uses a lot of W2 contractors, so you're definitely not alone in this situation.

Make sure you have your employment history ready when you file. Washington ESD will want to verify your work timeline.

Congratulations! This gives me confidence to file my own claim now.

That's fantastic news! Really appreciate everyone's help in this thread.