Can I get unemployment if I get laid off from my job in Washington?

Yes, getting laid off definitely qualifies you for unemployment benefits in Washington. Since it's not a voluntary quit or termination for misconduct, you should be eligible. You'll need to file your initial claim through the Washington ESD website as soon as possible after your last day of work.

Been there, it sucks but at least Washington ESD benefits help. Make sure you have all your employment info ready - social security number, employer details, dates of employment, and your final pay stub.

Just heads up - even though layoffs usually qualify you, Washington ESD still reviews every claim. Sometimes there can be delays if they need to verify the reason for separation with your employer. Don't panic if it takes a few weeks.

If you run into issues reaching Washington ESD by phone (which happens a lot), I recently used Claimyr.com to get through to an actual agent. They have this system that calls for you and gets you connected - way better than sitting on hold for hours. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Make sure you understand the job search requirements too. Even with a layoff you'll need to be actively looking for work and logging your job search activities every week.

ugh the whole system is such a pain... spent weeks trying to get my claim sorted out last year

Don't let horror stories scare you - most layoff claims go smoothly. The key is filing accurately and completely from the start. Make sure all your employer information is correct and be honest about the circumstances of your layoff.

Also remember you can't just sit around - you have to be able and available for work. If you're planning a vacation or have other commitments, that could affect your benefits.

One more thing - if your company offers severance pay, that might affect when your benefits start. Washington ESD has rules about how severance is treated.

File online if possible, it's way faster than trying to do it over the phone. The Washington ESD website walks you through everything step by step.

Remember to file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still being processed. Missing weeks can cause delays in getting your back pay.

been laid off 3 times in the past 5 years lol... it gets easier each time you file. at least washington state has decent benefits compared to some places

If you do need to call Washington ESD for any reason, seriously consider using that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier. I wasted so many hours on hold before I found it. Made dealing with my adjudication issue so much easier.

Just want to add - don't feel bad about filing for unemployment. You paid into the system through your taxes, and this is exactly what it's for. Getting laid off isn't your fault.

START YOUR JOB SEARCH IMMEDIATELY even before you file. The job market is tough right now and you want to have applications out there as soon as possible.

check with your company's HR about COBRA too if you need to keep your health insurance

To summarize for you: 1) Yes, layoffs qualify for unemployment, 2) File your claim right after your last day of work, 3) Have all your employment info ready, 4) Keep filing weekly claims, 5) Start job searching immediately. You'll be fine!

One last tip - keep records of everything. Save copies of your application, any correspondence from Washington ESD, and document your job search activities. It helps if questions come up later.

Wishing you the best with your job search! Layoffs are tough but unemployment benefits really do help take some of the financial pressure off while you're looking.

Last thing - if you do end up needing to contact Washington ESD and can't get through, remember that Claimyr option. It saved me weeks of frustration when I had questions about my claim status. The video demo really shows how much easier it makes the whole process.