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.

Based on everything in this thread, I think your best approach is to: 1. Document the offer completely 2. Report it accurately on your weekly claim 3. Be prepared to explain specifically why it doesn't meet the 80% threshold at your current stage 4. Try to speak directly with an ESD representative for clarity (using Claimyr or other means to get through) 5. Continue your job search efforts at the same or increased intensity The system is designed to help people find suitable employment, not force them into jobs that represent a major regression in their career or financial stability. Just make sure you follow all the proper procedures so your benefits remain protected.

I went through something similar about 8 months ago. The key thing that saved me was getting everything in writing and being very specific about WHY the job wasn't suitable when I reported it. Don't just say "low pay" - calculate the exact percentage difference and mention other factors like the increased work days. In my case, I declined a job that was 40% less than my previous wage at the 14-week mark. ESD initially flagged it for review, but because I had documented everything properly and could show it was well below the 80% threshold for my timeframe, they approved my continued benefits without any issues. Also, if this employer is pressuring you for a quick answer, remember that you have the right to reasonable time to consider any job offer. Don't let them rush you into a decision before you've had time to calculate all the financial implications and document everything properly.

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!

To wrap this up - the key takeaway is that in Washington state, unemployment insurance is funded entirely by employer contributions. Employees don't pay unemployment taxes through payroll deductions, but they're still fully covered for benefits if they become unemployed and meet the eligibility requirements. Pretty straightforward once you know how it works!

This is such valuable information! As someone who just moved to Washington from California, I had the same confusion about unemployment taxes. In CA I remember seeing State Disability Insurance (SDI) deductions on my paystub, so I was expecting something similar here. It's refreshing to know that Washington keeps it simple for employees - no state income tax, no employee unemployment contributions, and apparently better unemployment benefits than most states. Really appreciate everyone sharing their knowledge here!