Can I get unemployment benefits in Washington - what are the basic requirements?

Thank you! What's a base period exactly? And how much do I need to have earned to qualify?

The base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. For 2025, if you file now, it would be Q1 2024 through Q4 2024. You need to have earned at least $1,320 in your base period with earnings in at least two quarters.

Do I need pay stubs or will they verify my wages automatically?

Washington ESD will verify your wages automatically through employer reports, but it's good to have your pay stubs just in case there are any discrepancies or if they need additional verification.

How much does that cost? I'm already broke from being laid off.

It's worth checking out their site for details. For me it was way better than spending hours trying to get through on my own.

Thanks for the tip! Hopefully I won't need to call but good to know there's an option.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs?

Job applications, attending job fairs, networking events, interviewing, creating or updating your resume, and registering with WorkSourceWA all count. Keep detailed records of everything.

How long did it take for her to start receiving payments?

i think it was like 2-3 weeks? she didn't have any issues with her claim though

That would actually help a lot with my rent and bills. How long can I collect benefits?

Regular unemployment benefits last up to 26 weeks in Washington, but you have to keep meeting all the requirements and filing your weekly claims on time.

Good point, I'll file today. Do I need to wait for anything from my employer first?

Nope, file right away. Washington ESD will contact your employer directly to verify the reason for separation.

Adjudication happens when there's a question about your eligibility that needs to be reviewed. It can be about the reason you left your job, your availability for work, or other eligibility issues.

Ugh, hopefully that doesn't happen to me. How do you even get help if you get stuck like that?

That's exactly when Claimyr helped me. I was stuck in adjudication for a month and couldn't get through to anyone at Washington ESD. They got me connected to an agent who explained what was happening.

Oh I didn't think about that. Should I have them withhold taxes?

It's usually a good idea to avoid a surprise tax bill next April. They can withhold 10% for federal taxes.

Yeah, I'm hoping to find something better than my last job anyway. Maybe this is a chance to get into a different field.

That's a great attitude! WorkSourceWA also has free training programs if you want to learn new skills while you're collecting benefits.

What kind of mistakes did you make?

I put the wrong dates for when I worked at one job and mixed up my gross vs net pay. Had to appeal and it took forever to get it sorted out.

Is that worksourcewa.com?

Yes, that's the site. They'll walk you through setting up your profile and you can search for jobs there too.

Thanks everyone! This has been super helpful. I feel a lot more confident about applying now.

Great tip! I'll make sure to document everything.

Smart move. The system isn't perfect so it's good to have your own records.

Seems like a lot of people have had good experiences with that. I'll keep it in mind if I need help.

Yeah, sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get things sorted out.

That's reassuring to hear. I was worried it would be a nightmare.

It's not too bad if you follow the rules and stay organized. You'll do fine.

Yep, I'm going to do it right after I finish reading all these responses. Thanks for the push!

Good point. I just moved last month so I need to make sure they have my current address.

You can update that in your eServices account after you file your initial claim.

Thanks! I really appreciate everyone taking the time to help me understand the process.

Ha! Yeah, not exactly where I planned to be at this point, but you're right - that's what the system is for.

Exactly! You paid into the system while you were working, so don't feel bad about using it now.

Will do! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel ready to tackle the application now.

That's what this community is for. Good luck and feel free to ask if you have more questions!