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OP, did you end up checking your wage history? I'm curious what you found out about your eligibility.
Hope this thread helped answer your question! It's a complicated topic but at least now you know what to look for. Good luck with whatever you decide to do.
Thanks everyone! This has been really helpful. I'm going to check my wage history and probably try to talk to someone at Washington ESD to get a definitive answer about my situation.
If you need to talk to Washington ESD about tax-related issues with your unemployment benefits, I had good luck using Claimyr to get through. Much faster than trying to call on your own, especially during tax season when everyone's calling with questions.
Bottom line: unemployment withholding is just an estimate. Whether you get a refund or owe more depends on your total tax situation for the year. Washington ESD can't predict that, so they just offer a standard withholding option.
Thanks everyone for explaining this. I understand now that I'll just need to pay the additional amount I owe and maybe plan better for next time.
The whole certification process stressed me out at first too, but honestly after the first couple weeks it becomes routine. Just answer the questions honestly, keep good job search records, and file on time every week. You'll be fine!
One last thing - if you're on standby status with your employer, the weekly certification questions are slightly different. You'll need to report your standby status and any callback expectations each week.
Since you mentioned this is your first time filing, just remember that even after approval you need to keep looking for work and documenting your job search activities. The weekly claims will ask about this so be prepared.
Best case scenario you'll be approved within 2 weeks and see your first payment shortly after. Worst case it takes a month if there are complications. Most people fall somewhere in between. Your situation sounds pretty clean so I'd lean toward the faster end.
Nia Harris
Thanks everyone, this has been really helpful. I think I'll file the claim tomorrow and just be super careful about reporting everything accurately.
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Mateo Gonzalez
Good choice! And remember, if you have specific questions about your claim, it's worth getting through to speak with an agent rather than guessing.
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