Just an update on my situation from January - make absolutely sure your employer indicates the REASON for the extension request. My first request was denied because my boss just asked for "more time" without explaining the specific construction delays. Second request with details about permit issues and contractor delays was approved immediately.

I went through this same thing with my construction job last fall. The key is timing - don't wait until the last minute! Have your boss submit the extension request at least a week before your current standby expires if possible. Also, in your case with flooring installation, make sure your employer mentions that this is due to project delays beyond their control (like the contract falling through you mentioned). ESD seems to approve extensions more easily when it's clearly due to circumstances outside the employer's control rather than just general "slow business." And definitely keep documentation of everything - save any texts or emails from your boss about the timeline changes.

This thread has been super helpful! I finally understand how Washington ESD calculates benefits. Thanks everyone!

Thanks for all the detailed explanations here! I'm in a similar situation to the original poster - just got laid off from my marketing job and trying to figure out my benefit amount before filing. From what I'm reading, it sounds like I need to look at my W-2 and add up each quarter's gross wages, then find the highest one and divide by 26. Is that right? Also, does anyone know if severance pay affects the calculation at all? I received a small severance package when I was let go.

Best of luck to everyone dealing with unemployment at any age. Remember that you've earned these benefits through your work history - don't let anyone make you feel otherwise.

Just wanted to add that I went through this exact situation last year at 66. Filed for Washington ESD benefits after being laid off from a manufacturing job I'd held for 15 years. The online application was straightforward, and I received my first payment within 4 weeks. Age was never an issue - they only cared that I met the work requirements and was actively seeking employment. Don't let anyone discourage you from filing just because you're older. You've paid into the system and deserve those benefits when you need them.

Based on your $4,200/month salary, you're probably looking at somewhere between $450-500 per week, assuming consistent earnings. Not exact but should be in that ballpark.

I used that Claimyr service too when I couldn't get through to Washington ESD about my benefit calculation questions. They connected me super fast and the agent was really helpful explaining everything. Definitely worth it if you want to talk to someone directly.

Don't stress too much about the exact amount until you get your determination. Focus on getting your claim filed properly and having all your documentation ready. The benefit amount will be what it is based on your wages.

I went through this exact same process last year working retail at similar wages. The key thing to remember is that Washington ESD uses your "base period" which is typically the first four of the last five completed quarters before you file. So if you file in January 2025, they'd look at July 2023 through June 2024. The timing of when you file can actually make a difference in which quarters they include. I'd recommend checking your pay stubs from your highest earning quarter and doing the rough math: (highest quarter wages ÷ 26) × 0.5. That should give you a ballpark figure to work with for budgeting purposes.