Can I file for unemployment after 2 years gap - Washington ESD eligibility?

Washington ESD uses your base period to determine eligibility, which is typically the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. After 2 years, your old wages probably won't be in the current base period anymore. You need qualifying wages during that specific timeframe to be eligible.

You also have to meet the work search requirements and be able and available for work. If you've been out of work for 2 years due to personal issues, Washington ESD might question whether you're actually able and available right now.

Had a similar situation last year. If you don't have qualifying wages in your base period, you're basically out of luck for regular UI benefits. You might want to check if there are any other assistance programs you qualify for instead.

I've been trying to get through to Washington ESD for weeks about my own claim issues and their phone system is absolutely terrible. If you do end up filing, good luck actually talking to anyone there. The wait times are insane and half the time they just hang up on you.

Actually, let me clarify something important. Washington ESD will look at your base period wages, but they also have an alternate base period option. If you don't qualify under the standard base period, they'll automatically check the alternate base period which uses the last 4 completed quarters. Still might not help after 2 years though.

this whole system is ridiculous... people pay into unemployment for years and then when they actually need it theres all these hoops to jump through. 2 years shouldnt disqualify someone completely

You should still file an application even if you're not sure about eligibility. Washington ESD will make the determination and you'll know for certain. The worst they can say is no, and then you'll have a clear answer about your base period wages.

My cousin had a gap like this and ended up qualifying under some special circumstances provision. Something about good cause for the work separation. Might be worth looking into if your personal issues were health related or family emergency type stuff.

Also keep in mind that even if you somehow qualify, you'll need to register with WorkSource and do the job search activities. After being out of work for 2 years, they might require you to do additional reemployment services.

Another thing to consider - if you do qualify somehow, your weekly benefit amount will be based on those old wages from 2+ years ago. With inflation, that amount is going to be pretty low compared to current living costs.

Wait I'm confused about something. If someone hasn't worked in 2 years, how would they be involuntarily unemployed? Don't you have to lose a job to file for unemployment? You can't just decide to start working again after 2 years and claim benefits right?

I work at a workforce development center and see this situation sometimes. Honestly, after 2 years the chances are pretty slim unless there were very specific circumstances. But definitely worth applying to find out for sure. The online application will walk you through the base period calculation.

Just want to mention again about the calling issue someone brought up earlier. If you do need to talk to Washington ESD about your specific situation, definitely check out Claimyr. I was skeptical at first but it really works. Saved me so much frustration trying to get through their busy phone lines.

UPDATE: I tried that Claimyr thing and holy crap it actually worked. Got through to Washington ESD in under 15 minutes when I've been trying for weeks. Mind blown. They were able to answer my questions about my claim status too.

Don't get your hopes up too high. I've seen plenty of people in similar situations get denied. The base period requirements are pretty strict and there's not much wiggle room. But yeah, still worth trying I guess.

One more thing to think about - even if you don't qualify for regular unemployment, there might be state or local programs for people re-entering the workforce after extended absence. Check with your local WorkSource office about reentry programs.

Final advice - when you do file the application, be completely honest about your work history and the reasons for your absence. Washington ESD will verify everything anyway, and being upfront from the start will save you headaches later if there's an adjudication process.