This whole thread has been super helpful! I'm about to file for unemployment for the first time and was really confused about how the payment system works. Now I know what to expect with the KeyBank card.

The KeyBank ReliaCard system is actually pretty solid overall. Just to add to what everyone else has shared - you can also set up text alerts for when payments are deposited, which is helpful for tracking your weekly benefits. Also, if you're planning to use the card long-term, consider setting up automatic bill pay through the ReliaCard website for recurring expenses like utilities or rent. It can help you budget better during unemployment. The card stays active even if you find work and stop receiving benefits, so you can keep using any remaining balance.

The bottom line is that temp workers pay into unemployment insurance just like everyone else, so you're entitled to benefits when you're out of work. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. File your claim, be honest about your situation, and follow the rules for maintaining benefits.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago when my temp assignment at a warehouse ended suddenly. Filed with Washington ESD and got approved within 2 weeks. The key thing I learned is to make sure you're actively looking for work - not just waiting for the temp agency to call. I registered with multiple agencies and applied to permanent jobs too, which helped me meet the job search requirements. Also keep all your paystubs from the temp work as proof of employment history. The whole process was actually pretty straightforward once I understood that temp workers have the same rights to unemployment benefits as regular employees.

Final thought - if anyone needs to actually speak with Washington ESD about their specific situation, seriously consider using Claimyr. I know I keep mentioning it but it's the only thing that worked for me when I needed real answers. Way better than the phone runaround.

I'm in a similar situation and just want to share what I learned from calling Washington ESD last week. If you haven't worked at all during your benefit year, you won't qualify for a new regular UI claim. However, they told me to check if I might be eligible for any federal extension programs that could still be available. Also, make sure you apply for other assistance programs like SNAP and housing help BEFORE your UI ends - don't wait until after. The application process can take weeks and you don't want a gap in support. Hang in there, this is such a stressful time but you're not alone in dealing with this.

One last thought - university libraries sometimes have access to government databases that aren't easily searchable online. If you're affiliated with a school, that might be another avenue.

The Washington State Treasurer's office also publishes detailed financial reports that might have the unemployment spending data you're looking for. Their Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) includes expenditures by fund and program. Since unemployment benefits come from specific trust funds, those numbers should be clearly broken out. You can usually find several years of historical data in their reports section.

Bottom line: $25K in earnings across multiple quarters should definitely qualify you in Washington. Stop stressing and just file the claim!

Good luck with your application! From everything you've described, you should definitely qualify. I went through a similar situation last year with part-time work and had no issues getting approved. The Washington ESD system is pretty straightforward once you get started. Just make sure to file your weekly claims on time once you're approved - that's the part people sometimes mess up. Let us know how it goes!