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Just to summarize for anyone still confused: work history + qualifying separation + able/available to work + actively job searching = eligible for unemployment benefits in Washington. The wage thresholds aren't super high if you worked steadily.
Don't wait too long to file if you think you qualify. There's usually a waiting week and benefits don't pay retroactively before your application date.
i had a similar experience where i thought my benefits were too low but it turned out to be correct. washington esd is actually pretty accurate with their calculations once you understand the system
Remember that unemployment benefits are taxable income, so you might want to have taxes withheld or set money aside for tax season.
Best advice is just to apply and see what happens. You won't know if you qualify until you try, and there's no penalty for applying if you don't end up qualifying.
QuantumQuasar
I had a similar situation and Washington ESD actually reclassified me as an employee after investigating. It took a few months but I eventually got benefits. Don't give up if they initially deny you.
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Zoe Kyriakidou
•That's encouraging to hear. Did you have to provide a lot of documentation during the investigation?
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QuantumQuasar
•Yeah, they wanted emails, contracts, anything showing how the company controlled my work. It was worth gathering everything though.
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Keisha Jackson
The bottom line is that it's worth applying even as a 1099 worker. If there's any chance you were misclassified, Washington ESD will figure it out. You have nothing to lose by trying.
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Zoe Kyriakidou
•You're right. I'm going to apply tomorrow and see what happens. Thanks everyone for all the advice.
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Paolo Moretti
•Good luck! And remember, if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your claim status, that Claimyr service people mentioned earlier can really help you get through.
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