Can I get ESD unemployment as ex-military with no civilian job history since retirement?

Hi there! Former military myself. Unfortunately, I don't think you'll qualify for regular UI benefits at this point. ESD unemployment typically requires you to have worked in WA state during your "base year" (which is the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file). With 18 months since your discharge, you probably don't have civilian wages in that timeframe. Also, retroactive benefits generally only go back to when you first apply, not when you first became unemployed - especially not 18 months back. You should definitely look into veterans benefits through the VA though! There are transition programs specifically for veterans that might help in your situation.

Actually, military service CAN qualify for unemployment benefits through the UCX (Unemployment Compensation for Ex-servicemembers) program. You'll need your DD-214 Member Copy 4 showing honorable discharge. However, there are time limitations... For UCX claims, you typically need to file within 12 months after separating from military service to be eligible for the full benefit period. Since you're at 18 months, you may have missed that window, but it's still worth checking with ESD directly as some exceptions might apply. To clarify: military service counts as federal employment for unemployment purposes. The issue isn't that you didn't work in WA - it's the timing of your application that might be problematic.

Just wanted to add - I went thru something smilar when I got out of the Coast Guard. Even if your outside the ideal window, APPLY ANYWAY! The worst they can say is no but i've seen ESD make exceptions for veterans. Just be honest about why you didnt apply sooner (didn't know). Also the VA has other programs like Voc Rehab that might actually be BETTER for you then unemployment. Have you been to the local WorkSource office? They have veteran specialists!!!

If you're planning to call ESD to discuss your UCX eligibility, I'd recommend using Claimyr (claimyr.com). It's a service that helps you get through to an ESD agent without the endless busy signals and disconnects. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 that explains how it works. I used it when I had questions about my own eligibility situation that couldn't be answered through the website. It saved me hours of frustration, and the agent I spoke with was able to review my specific circumstances and give me accurate information about my options. For something complex like a UCX claim outside the normal window, speaking directly with an agent is probably your best bet.

Have you also applied for your VA benefits? Those are separate from unemployment and you should definitely be getting those if you served long enough to retire! There's also a transition assistance program through the VA that might help with employment - my brother used it when he got out in 2023 and they helped him find a good job using his military skills.

Im confused about something - if you RETIRED from military doesn't that mean your getting retirement pay already? How can you get unemployment on top of retirement? Not trying to be rude just curious if thats allowed?

The whole system is RIDICULOUS. My cousin was Navy for 12 years and when he got out they made him jump through a million hoops just to get his unemployment. Had to prove he was looking for work CONSTANTLY even though the economy was terrible. And then they STILL messed up his payments multiple times!!! The way this state treats veterans is shameful!!!!! OP, if I were you I'd get a lawyer who specializes in veteran benefits to help with this. The ESD system is designed to DENY benefits not help people who need them!!!

After reading all the advice here, I think your best course of action is: 1. Apply for UCX benefits through ESD right away, even though you're past the 12-month window 2. Use Claimyr to actually reach a human at ESD who can review your specific situation 3. Visit WorkSource and ask specifically for their veteran employment representative 4. Bring your DD-214 and any other military service documentation to both ESD and WorkSource 5. Be prepared to explain why you didn't apply sooner (legitimate lack of awareness) Even if you don't qualify for retroactive benefits, you might still be eligible going forward. And the veteran specialists at WorkSource can help connect you with other resources regardless of what happens with your UCX claim.