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Thanks everyone for all the advice! I'm going to finish my application tonight and hopefully it goes smoothly. At least now I know what to expect and have backup options if I run into problems.
One thing to remember is that if you do get denied for any reason, you can appeal the decision. Don't just accept a denial if you think you qualify - fight it.
The Washington ESD online system is actually pretty good for checking your claim status once you file. Much better than trying to call for updates on routine stuff.
been following this thread and just wanted to say good luck with your adjudication. sounds like you have a solid case if the attendance issues were medical and documented
To summarize for anyone else reading this: Washington employers are charged for unemployment benefits for the entire duration that their former employee collects benefits, provided the employee was eligible. The responsibility doesn't end after a set time period - it continues until benefits are exhausted, the claimant finds work, or becomes ineligible for other reasons.
Don't forget about taxes on your unemployment benefits. Washington doesn't tax unemployment but the federal government does. You can choose to have taxes withheld or pay them later when you file your tax return.
File your claim this week if possible. Benefits are backdated to when you first became unemployed, but only if you file within a reasonable time. Don't wait thinking you'll find a job quickly - you can always stop claiming if you find work.
That's good advice. I was thinking about waiting to see if I could find something quickly, but you're right that I can always stop if I find work.
Daniel Rogers
Make sure you understand the difference between your weekly benefit amount and what you actually receive. The weekly benefit amount is the maximum you can get, but if you have any earnings or other deductions it will be less.
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Alexis Robinson
•That makes sense. So the number they give me is like the ceiling, not necessarily what I'll get every week.
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Daniel Rogers
•Exactly. And remember to report any income honestly - they will catch it eventually if you don't.
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Aaliyah Reed
Bottom line - your weekly benefit amount depends on your earnings in the highest quarter of your base year. For most people it ends up being around 40-50% of what they were making per week when they were working. Not great but better than nothing.
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Alexis Robinson
•Thanks everyone for all the info! This has been super helpful. I feel like I actually understand how this works now.
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Aaliyah Reed
•No problem! Good luck with your claim and job search. Hope you get back to work soon.
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