Can you get a loan on unemployment in Washington - need emergency funds while on Washington ESD

Most traditional lenders won't count unemployment benefits as stable income for loan approval. They typically want to see W-2 employment history. However, some credit unions and online lenders might be more flexible. You could also look into emergency assistance programs through DSHS or local nonprofits.

I got a small personal loan from Capital One while on unemployment last year. They approved me for $800 but the interest rate was pretty high - like 18%. I had to show them my benefit statements and they counted it as income. Worth a try if you have decent credit.

Before taking on debt, have you looked into emergency transportation assistance? WorkSource locations sometimes have programs to help job seekers with transportation issues. Also check with 211 for local emergency financial assistance programs.

Just a heads up - if you do get a loan make sure it doesn't affect your Washington ESD benefits. I don't think loans count as income for UI purposes but you might want to double check. The last thing you want is to have your benefits reduced or stopped.

Payday loans are an option but avoid them if possible - the interest rates are insane. Credit card cash advance might be better if you have available credit. Or see if a family member can help with a short term loan.

Check if your state has any emergency assistance programs for people on unemployment. Some states have funds specifically for transportation or emergency expenses for job seekers. Washington might have something similar.

I'm in a similar situation but with medical bills. Been trying to get through to Washington ESD for weeks about my claim status. The phone system is completely broken. How are we supposed to get help when we can't even talk to anyone?

Some online lenders like Avant or OneMain Financial might work with unemployment income. They tend to be more flexible than banks but the rates are higher. Also try local credit unions - they're often more understanding of temporary financial situations.

whatever you do dont get a title loan on your car if you still owe money on it. learned that the hard way. interest rates are worse than payday loans and they can repo your car if you miss payments

Have you considered gig work while on unemployment? Uber, DoorDash, etc. You can still collect benefits as long as you report the income and it doesn't exceed your weekly benefit amount. Might help bridge the gap without taking on debt.

I got approved for a small loan from LendingClub while unemployed last year. They counted my UI benefits as income. Application was online and took about a week to get the money. Interest rate wasn't great but it helped me through a tough spot.

Check with local churches or community organizations too. Sometimes they have emergency assistance funds that don't need to be repaid. Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, etc. Worth making some calls before taking on debt.

Just remember that loans have to be paid back regardless of your employment status. If your unemployment benefits run out and you haven't found work yet, you'll still owe the money. Make sure you have a plan for repayment before signing anything.

Some employers will hire people even if they don't have reliable transportation initially. Especially if it's remote work or if they're desperate for workers. Don't let the car situation stop you from applying places.

If you have good credit you might qualify for a 0% APR credit card for new purchases. Could use that for the car repair and then pay it off before the promotional rate expires. Better than a high-interest personal loan.

You mentioned having trouble getting through to Washington ESD earlier. I had the same problem when I needed to verify my benefit amount for a loan application. Used Claimyr and got through in about 15 minutes. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Just wanted to add that some auto repair shops offer payment plans or financing for major repairs. Might be worth asking the shop if they have any options before going the loan route. Sometimes they partner with financing companies.

Whatever you decide, make sure to keep looking for work and filing your weekly claims on time. Don't let financial stress derail your job search. There are solutions out there, you just have to find the right one for your situation.

Another option to consider is checking with your bank about an overdraft line of credit if you have direct deposit set up for your unemployment benefits. Some banks will extend a small credit line based on regular deposits, even if it's unemployment income. The rates are usually better than personal loans and you only pay interest on what you use. Also, if you're comfortable with it, you could try a GoFundMe or ask friends on social media - sometimes people are willing to help with specific needs like car repairs when they can see exactly what the money is for.