Can I draw unemployment benefits in Washington - eligibility questions

That's encouraging! How do I know if I earned enough wages? Is there a minimum amount?

Washington ESD looks at your highest quarter earnings during your base period. You need to have earned at least $1,850 in your highest quarter, or have total base period wages of at least $2,775 with earnings in at least two quarters.

Oh no, I was hoping to call them to check before I file. How long did it take you to get through?

Honestly, I never did get through the regular way. I ended up using a service called Claimyr that helped me reach an actual agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works.

What counts as a job search contact? Does applying online count?

Yes, online applications count. You can also include contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, or networking activities. Just document everything in your job search log.

Don't forget you need to register with WorkSourceWA too - that's a requirement for receiving benefits.

I understand the confusion. The best source is always the Washington ESD website directly. They have an eligibility tool that can help you determine if you qualify based on your specific situation.

I tried that tool but it's not very clear about the reduced hours situation. Maybe I should just file and see what happens?

Good point. I guess there's no harm in trying. Do I file online or do I need to call?

You can file online through the Washington ESD website. It's actually easier than calling since you don't have to wait on hold forever.

Should I tell my employer I'm filing for unemployment? Are they going to get contacted?

Washington ESD will contact your employer to verify the information you provide, so they'll find out anyway. You don't have to tell them beforehand but it's not a secret.

That's okay, something is better than nothing right now. Do you know how they calculate the weekly amount?

It's roughly 3.85% of your total base period wages, divided by 52 weeks, but there's a minimum and maximum amount. For 2025, the minimum is $295 per week and maximum is $999.

Seriously! I've been calling for weeks trying to get my claim sorted out. The hold times are insane.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. It's been a lifesaver for actually reaching Washington ESD agents when I need to.

Thanks for the encouragement! I think I'm going to file this weekend when I have time to gather all my information.

Good luck! Just be honest and accurate with all your information. The process takes a few weeks but it's worth it if you qualify.

Do I need to apply for jobs that are exactly like my previous job, or can I apply for anything?

You need to apply for 'suitable work' which generally means jobs that match your skills and experience, but the definition can be flexible especially early in your claim.

How do I file the weekly claims? Is that online too?

Yes, you can file your weekly claims online through your Washington ESD account. They're usually available to file on Sunday for the previous week.

What's adjudication? That sounds scary.

It's just a review process. Could be they need to verify your work history or the reason you're unemployed. It adds time to the process but doesn't necessarily mean you'll be denied.

My claim was in adjudication for 6 weeks! Nearly drove me crazy but I eventually got approved and received all the back payments.

Definitely! Good luck to both of us. At least we know what to expect now.

I only had the one retail job, so that should be straightforward. Thanks for the tip though!

That's reassuring. I'm going to file this weekend and hope for the best!

If you run into any issues or need to reach an agent for questions, definitely consider using Claimyr. Made my whole experience much less stressful.