Can anyone apply for unemployment benefits through Washington ESD?

That's helpful! How do I figure out what my base period is exactly? And where can I check my wage history?

You can check your wage history by logging into your Washington ESD account online. Your base period is automatically calculated when you apply, but it's typically the first 4 quarters of the last 5 completed quarters before you file.

Actually, Washington state has been expanding eligibility for some self-employed workers, but it's pretty complicated. You'd need to check with Washington ESD directly.

I'm a contractor and I couldn't get benefits when I tried last year. Had to prove I was looking for employee work, not more contract work.

What does 'through no fault of your own' mean exactly? I got fired for being late too many times - would that disqualify me?

Being fired for attendance issues might result in a disqualification, but you can still apply and let Washington ESD make the determination. Sometimes there are mitigating circumstances they consider.

Good to know I can at least apply and let them decide. Better than not trying at all.

Never heard of Claimyr before. Is it legit? I'm desperate to talk to someone at Washington ESD about my claim.

Yeah it's legitimate. They just help you get through the phone queue faster. Saved me hours of calling and redialing.

This! I applied thinking I probably wouldn't qualify and ended up getting approved. You never know until you try.

That's encouraging. I guess I'll just go ahead and apply then.

Don't give up! The initial application can be overwhelming but it's worth pushing through. Take your time and have your employment history ready.

maybe ill try again this weekend when i have more time to focus

I'm in college part-time and work part-time. Been wondering about this myself. Do you know what the specific rules are?

You generally need to be available for work during normal business hours. If your class schedule prevents you from accepting suitable work, it could be an issue.

That's good to know! My husband is stationed at JBLM and I've had to quit jobs due to his deployments. Wasn't sure if that would affect my eligibility.

Definitely look into the military spouse provisions. Washington ESD is usually pretty understanding about those situations.

Wait, wages from other states count? I worked in Oregon before moving to Washington. How does that work?

Yes! There are interstate agreements that allow wages from other states to count. You might need to file a combined wage claim.

Exactly why you should just apply and let them sort it out. The worst they can say is no.

Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm definitely going to apply this week.

How long do you have to file an appeal if you get denied?

You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal with Washington ESD.

Good point! A lot of people don't realize that unemployment insurance is funded by employer taxes, not employee contributions in Washington.

I didn't know that either. Makes me feel better about applying.

This is so important. They cross-reference with employer records and other databases. Better to be upfront about any potential issues.

What happens if you make an honest mistake on the application?

Honest mistakes can usually be corrected. It's intentional misrepresentation that gets you in trouble.

Did it cost anything to use?

There's a fee but it was worth it to actually get through to someone instead of calling for hours.

That's good to know. I'm 19 and wasn't sure if there was a minimum age requirement.

Nope, as long as you've worked and earned enough wages, age isn't a factor.

Is that the same as the job search requirement?

It's part of it. You register with WorkSource and then use it to document your job search activities.

Sometimes it's good to understand the requirements first though. Some people might not realize they need certain documents ready.

fair point but you can always start the application and gather documents as you go

That's interesting! I do landscaping work that's pretty seasonal. Good to know I might have options during winter.

Definitely look into it. Just make sure you're available for other types of work during the off-season.

I might have to try that. Been trying to get through to ask about my case for over a week now.

It really works. Check out their demo video to see how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

Thanks to everyone who replied! I'm convinced now - going to apply this afternoon. Really appreciate all the helpful information.

Good luck with your application! Hope it goes smoothly for you.