Does 1099 get unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

That's what I was afraid of. So there's really no safety net for contractors at all?

Well, you might want to check if you were misclassified. Some companies illegally classify employees as contractors to avoid paying benefits.

Did you end up finding any other assistance programs? I'm really struggling to find new clients.

You might qualify for other state assistance programs, but not unemployment specifically. Check with DSHS for food assistance or other support.

I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They basically call for you and get you connected. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true with how impossible it is to reach Washington ESD.

Yeah it actually worked for me. I was able to get clarification on my claim status without spending my whole day on hold.

I did have a part-time W-2 job about 10 months ago for about 3 months. Would that count?

Possibly! You need to have earned at least $3,719 during your base period from covered employment. That part-time job might be enough if you earned enough wages.

I made about $4,200 from that job. So I should definitely apply then?

You have to be unemployed through no fault of your own and able and available for work. The 1099 work ending doesn't directly qualify you, but if you're now unemployed and meet the wage requirements from your W-2 job, you could be eligible.

This is getting confusing. Maybe OP should just apply and let Washington ESD determine eligibility rather than trying to figure it out here.

Exactly! We're essentially running small businesses but with none of the safety nets.

That's the trade-off for being your own boss and setting your own rates though. Can't have it both ways.

Easy to say when you have a steady paycheck and benefits. Not everyone chooses to be a contractor - sometimes it's the only work available.

That makes sense. I'll start gathering my tax documents and wage statements. How long does the application process usually take?

Initial application is pretty quick online, but processing can take 2-3 weeks if there are no issues. Given your mixed employment situation, it might take longer for them to review.

Good point. I was hoping to pick up some small projects while looking for steady work. How does that affect benefits?

You can earn up to your weekly benefit amount minus $5 without losing benefits. Anything over that reduces your weekly payment dollar for dollar.

That's actually what I want anyway - more stable employment with benefits. The freelance life is too unpredictable.

WorkSourceWA has some good resources for people transitioning from contract work to traditional employment. Worth checking out even if you don't qualify for UI.

They did set my deadlines and I had to use their design software. How do you prove misclassification?

You can file a worker classification determination request with Washington ESD. If they rule you were misclassified, your employer would owe back taxes and you could qualify for benefits.

That's a longer process though and might burn bridges with the client. Sometimes it's not worth the fight.

You're right, I'm overthinking this. I'll just apply and see what happens. Thanks everyone for the advice!

Make sure to file quickly too. There's usually a waiting period and benefits don't start until after you file, so don't delay.