What is disaster unemployment assistance through Washington ESD?

So this would be for the flooding we had? How do I know if our area was officially declared a disaster zone?

You can check FEMA's website for official disaster declarations. If your county was included in the federal disaster declaration, you may be eligible for DUA benefits.

That's helpful to know. How long do you have to apply after the disaster?

Usually 30 days from the date the disaster area is declared, but sometimes they extend the deadline. Don't wait though - apply as soon as possible.

Never heard of that service. Did they actually help you get through to someone at Washington ESD?

Yes, it worked for me. Saved me hours of trying to call and getting busy signals. The agent was able to explain exactly what documentation I needed for my DUA claim.

I have photos of the flooded construction site and an email from my foreman saying work was suspended indefinitely. Would that be enough?

That sounds like good documentation. Also get any official notices from local authorities about road closures or evacuation orders if they affected your ability to work.

Make sure to keep records of everything - DUA claims get reviewed more carefully than regular unemployment claims.

No, you can't collect both simultaneously. However, if you're eligible for regular UI, that's usually processed first. DUA is typically for people who don't qualify for regular unemployment benefits.

ok that makes sense. probably better to file the regular claim first then

Are the weekly certifications the same as regular UI claims or do they ask different questions?

They ask about your continuing inability to work due to the disaster, any disaster relief work you might be doing, and availability for work. It's slightly different from regular UI certifications.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr to talk to someone. The Washington ESD website has the information but it's not always clear which program applies to your specific situation.

Maybe I should try that service too. I've been trying to call for three days straight with no luck.

How much lower are we talking? And how long do the benefits last?

The weekly benefit amount varies, but it's often around $300-400 per week maximum. Duration is typically up to 26 weeks, but it depends on the specific disaster declaration.

Yes, DUA benefits are subject to federal income tax, just like regular unemployment benefits. You'll receive a 1099-G form at the end of the year.

Thanks for the heads up. Better start planning for that now.

How long did it take for them to get their first payment?

Almost 8 weeks from application to first payment. They had to provide additional documentation twice.

That's why it's so important to submit complete documentation right from the start. Any missing paperwork will delay the whole process.

Yes, you have appeal rights with DUA decisions. You'll need to file your appeal within 30 days of the determination date, just like regular UI appeals.

Good to know. I'll start gathering my documentation for the appeal.

Correct. The work search requirements are modified based on the disaster circumstances. You may not be required to actively seek work if suitable work isn't available due to the disaster.

That makes sense. Most of the construction sites in our area are still dealing with flood damage.

Totally agree. That's another reason I liked using Claimyr - the agent could explain everything clearly instead of me trying to navigate all the confusing website pages.

might have to check that out. seems like it would save a lot of time and frustration

You don't automatically switch. If the disaster affects your ability to work or look for work, you might need to file a separate DUA claim, but generally you'd continue with your existing UI claim if you're still eligible.

Thanks for clarifying that. The whole system is pretty complex.

That's a good point. In my case, the construction site I was working on got flooded and they had to shut down the project completely.

That sounds like a clear case of disaster-related unemployment. Make sure you document everything clearly in your application.

What kind of proof of employment do they want? Pay stubs, tax forms, or something else?

Pay stubs are good, but they also accept tax forms, employer letters, or even invoices if you're self-employed. The key is showing you were working before the disaster.

Thanks for that reminder. I'll start my application this week. Better to apply and not need it than miss the deadline.

Exactly. You can always withdraw the claim if your work situation improves, but you can't file late and expect to get benefits.

Really? I had a job offer that got rescinded because the company's building was damaged in the flooding. Didn't know I might be eligible for DUA.

Definitely worth applying. If you can show the job offer was legitimate and was withdrawn due to disaster damage, you may qualify.

That's the kind of specific question where talking to a Washington ESD agent through Claimyr could really help clarify your eligibility.