Can I file for unemployment after 1 year out of work - Washington ESD eligibility?

You can definitely still file! Washington ESD doesn't have a deadline for when you first apply after losing your job. However, your benefit amount will be based on wages from your base period, which is typically the first 4 quarters of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. Since you've been out of work for a year, your base period wages should still include your 2023 earnings.

same situation here, been unemployed since march 2024 and just filed last month. no problems with washington esd accepting my claim even though i waited so long

The key thing to understand is that unemployment benefits are based on your work history, not when you apply. If you had qualifying wages in your base period and meet the other eligibility requirements (able to work, available for work, actively seeking work), you can file. However, you won't get retroactive benefits for the time you didn't file - benefits only start from when you actually submit your application.

I was in a similar spot trying to reach Washington ESD about eligibility questions. Couldn't get through on the phone for weeks. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually connect with ESD agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Worth checking out if you need to talk to someone at ESD about your specific situation.

Wait I'm confused about the base period thing. If someone has been unemployed for a year, wouldn't their base period wages be really old? Like from 2022-2023? Would those wages still be enough to qualify for benefits in 2025?

just file already! you're missing out on money every week you wait. the worst they can say is no

One important thing to remember - when you do file, you'll need to be actively looking for work and document your job search activities. Washington requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and register with WorkSource. Since you've been unemployed, you should be able to show you've been actively seeking employment.

I'm surprised you waited a whole year honestly. Most people I know file within the first week of losing their job. Better late than never I guess but you've probably missed out on thousands of dollars in benefits.

For anyone reading this thread later - here's what you need to know about filing after a long period of unemployment: 1) No deadline to file your initial claim, 2) Benefits calculated based on base period wages regardless of when you file, 3) Benefits start from filing date, not job loss date, 4) Must meet all current eligibility requirements including job search, 5) Register with WorkSource immediately after filing.

Just wanted to follow up on the Claimyr thing I mentioned earlier - if you do run into issues with your claim or need to speak with Washington ESD about anything, it's been a lifesaver for me. The regular phone lines are still impossible to get through on, but this actually worked.

The Washington ESD system is so confusing. I filed 6 months after losing my job and had no issues, but I've heard some people say there are problems if you wait too long. Glad to see that's not actually true.

ugh the job market has been terrible this past year, no wonder you haven't found anything. at least you can get some benefits while you keep looking

I thought there was some rule about having to file within 30 days or something? Maybe that's just for appeals?

Make sure when you file that you answer all the questions honestly about why you waited to apply. They might ask during the application process.

The most important thing now is to get your claim filed and start receiving benefits. You've already lost a year of potential income, don't lose any more time worrying about whether you're eligible.