One last tip for anyone reading this later - if you do try for backdating, make your request as soon as possible after filing your initial claim. The longer you wait, the harder it gets to justify.

This is such valuable information! I'm actually going through something similar right now - filed about 2 weeks late because I was dealing with my mom being in the hospital and honestly just didn't know the process. Reading through everyone's experiences here, it sounds like medical emergencies might count as good cause? Has anyone had success with family medical situations as justification for backdating delays?

Bottom line - with 6 months of full-time work at $18/hour, you should be fine on the earnings requirement. The bigger question is whether the layoffs actually happen and if they do, making sure you file promptly and meet all the ongoing requirements.

One more thing to consider - if you do end up getting laid off, file your claim as soon as possible even if you're not sure about your eligibility. There's a waiting week in Washington, and the sooner you file, the sooner that clock starts ticking. You can always appeal or provide additional documentation if there are issues with your wage records. Also, keep all your pay stubs and employment records organized just in case you need to prove your earnings to Washington ESD.

For anyone still struggling to get through to Washington ESD about MEUC questions, I can't recommend Claimyr enough. It's been a lifesaver for getting actual answers instead of waiting on hold for hours.

I was in a similar situation as Emma - saw MEUC on my account but had no idea what it meant. After reading through all these responses, I'm realizing I probably qualified since I had freelance graphic design work alongside my regular job. The $100 weekly supplement would have been really helpful during my unemployment period. It's frustrating that these programs aren't better publicized - seems like a lot of people who could have benefited never even knew they existed.

OP, I just wanted to say good luck with your appeal. This stuff is stressful but you seem to have done things correctly. Hope it works out in your favor.

I went through something very similar last year with a $3,400 overpayment notice from 2020-2021. Like you, I was terrified and confused because I thought I had reported everything correctly. I appealed it and gathered all my documentation - pay stubs, weekly claim certifications, bank statements showing when I deposited paychecks, everything. Turned out ESD had made an error in how they calculated my benefit year earnings base period. The whole overpayment got reversed after my hearing. Don't give up hope - these errors happen more often than you'd think, especially for claims from that chaotic pandemic period. Document everything you can remember about your work schedule and earnings reporting, and definitely appeal before the deadline. You've got this!

One last tip - if you're ever selected for a job search audit, respond quickly and provide all requested documentation. Delays can cause issues with your benefits.

I'm new to Washington unemployment and this thread is incredibly helpful! One thing I wanted to add - I've found that creating a simple weekly schedule helps me stay consistent with the job search requirements. I block out specific times for applications, networking, and other activities rather than scrambling at the end of the week. Also, don't forget that career counseling sessions at WorkSource count too - they're actually pretty valuable for getting feedback on your resume and interview skills while meeting your requirements.