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Hope everything works out for you! The unemployment system is frustrating but most people do eventually get their benefits. Just stay on top of your weekly claims and be persistent if you run into problems.
One last thing - if you disagree with any decision Washington ESD makes about your claim, you have the right to appeal. Don't just accept it if you think they made a mistake. The appeal deadline is usually 30 days from the date of the decision.
Another resource that helped me was using Claimyr when I couldn't reach Washington ESD directly. Their service helped me get through the phone queue and talk to an actual agent when my claim had issues. Check out their demo video to see how it works.
Yeah I've heard good things about Claimyr from other people too. Sometimes you just need that extra help getting through to ESD.
Another thing to consider - if you have any issues with your claim or need to talk to Washington ESD about timing questions, getting through by phone can be really tough. I've heard good things about services that help with that.
Yeah someone mentioned Claimyr earlier. Might need to look into that if I run into problems.
Bottom line - file today! Don't overthink it. The longer you wait, the more money you're leaving on the table. Washington ESD isn't going to backdate your benefits to when you lost your job.
This has been such a helpful thread! I had some of the same confusion when I first started collecting unemployment. It's crazy how many people think it's all connected to Social Security when it's really a completely separate state insurance program.
Final note - keep all your ESD correspondence and records separate from any Social Security paperwork you might have. They're different agencies, different programs, different requirements. Keeping them organized separately will save you headaches down the road.
Marcus Patterson
Don't forget about taxes! Your unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld from your weekly payments or pay them when you file your tax return. I learned this the hard way last year.
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Lydia Bailey
•How much should I have withheld? I don't want a huge tax bill next year.
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Marcus Patterson
•Washington ESD will withhold 10% for federal taxes if you request it. Might want to consult a tax professional depending on your situation.
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Mateo Warren
Last piece of advice - be 100% honest on your application. Washington ESD will verify everything with your employers and if they find any discrepancies it can result in benefit fraud charges. Not worth the risk to lie about anything.
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Joshua Wood
•Thanks everyone for all the help! I feel much more prepared to file my claim now. Going to gather all my documents and apply through esd.wa.gov this week.
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Sofia Price
•Good luck! It's less scary once you actually start the process. Just take your time and read everything carefully.
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