Can I get Washington ESD unemployment if I haven't worked a year?

That's a relief! I wasn't sure how the timing worked. Do you know what the minimum wage requirement is?

For 2025, you need to have earned at least $8,019 during your base period OR earned at least $5,346 with wages in at least two quarters. If you worked full-time for 8 months, you should easily meet these requirements.

Good to know! I was worried I'd be disqualified. Did you have any issues with the application process?

The application itself was straightforward, but I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I had questions. The phone lines are always busy. I actually ended up using Claimyr.com to help me get through - they have this system that calls for you and connects you when an agent is available. Saved me hours of calling.

Good question! If you don't have enough wages in the standard base period, Washington ESD will automatically check your alternate base period, which uses the last four completed quarters. This helps people who recently started working.

oh ok that makes more sense. so they do try to help you qualify if possible

Exactly. The alternate base period was created specifically for situations like yours where someone recently entered the workforce or returned to work after a period of unemployment.

You're thinking of the hour requirement for certain types of claims, but for regular unemployment insurance in Washington, it's based on wage earnings, not hours worked. The 680 hour requirement applies to other programs.

Thanks for clarifying! I knew I was remembering something but couldn't place it exactly.

I hear you but it's actually designed to be fair to different work situations. Someone who worked part-time for a year might have earned less than someone who worked full-time for 6 months.

i guess that makes sense when you put it that way

That's really helpful information. I was making about $4,500 per month so hopefully my benefit amount will be decent. Should I apply online or is there a better way?

Definitely apply online through the Washington ESD website. It's faster than applying by phone and you can do it 24/7. Just make sure you have all your employment information ready including dates of employment and your employer's information.

Good point. I'm definitely ready to start job searching immediately. Is the WorkSource registration something I do right away or after I'm approved?

You should register with WorkSource as soon as possible after filing your claim. It's one of the eligibility requirements and they may ask you about it during the application process.

Also make sure to keep track of your job search activities. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time and you need to be able to provide details about your contacts.

Interesting! I did have a part-time job earlier in the year before I started this full-time position. I wonder if that would help my case too.

It definitely could! Washington ESD looks at all wages from all employers during your base period, so every bit helps toward meeting the minimum requirements.

OMG yes! The phone system is horrible. I kept getting disconnected after waiting forever. I finally found this service called Claimyr that calls for you and holds your place in line. Check out claimyr.com - they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

wait that actually sounds amazing. does it really work?

It worked for me! I was able to talk to an actual Washington ESD agent within like 20 minutes instead of calling all day. Super worth it when you actually need help.

Good to know. I'm hoping it goes smoothly but it's reassuring to know there's an appeal process if needed.

The appeal process gives you a chance to present your case to an administrative law judge. Just make sure to file your appeal within 30 days if you get a denial notice.

Thanks for the reminder! I'll probably have them withhold taxes to avoid a big bill later.

Smart choice. A lot of people forget about the tax implications and get surprised come tax season.

That's encouraging to hear. I'm trying to stay positive about the whole situation.

Getting laid off is never fun, but at least Washington has a good safety net in place. You'll get through this!

Definitely will be honest about everything. Not worth risking my benefits over.

Yeah Washington ESD takes fraud seriously. But if you're honest about part-time work, they just reduce your weekly benefit accordingly. You can often still get partial benefits.

It sounds like that service is really helpful for people who are having trouble getting through. I'll keep it in mind if I run into issues.

Yeah, I was hesitant at first but when you really need to reach someone at Washington ESD, it's worth it. The video demo on their site explains exactly how it works.

Thank you everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much more confident about applying now. I'll file my claim tomorrow morning.

Good luck with everything! Come back and update us on how it goes.

Will do! Thanks again for all the support and information.