Can you apply for Washington ESD unemployment after a year gap?

You can still apply but there are some time limits to consider. Washington ESD typically looks at your base period earnings which is usually the first 4 quarters of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. Since it's been over a year, your base period might not include earnings from your most recent job.

So if I apply now in 2025, would they look at my 2023 earnings instead of the job I lost in March 2024?

Exactly. That's why timing matters with unemployment claims. The longer you wait, the further back they look for your qualifying wages.

i waited 8 months after getting fired and still got approved, but my benefit amount was lower than expected because of the base period thing

Did you have to explain why you waited so long to apply?

You should definitely still apply! I had a similar situation and used Claimyr to get through to an actual Washington ESD agent who explained my options. The website is claimyr.com and they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Way better than trying to call Washington ESD directly.

How much does that service cost? I'm already tight on money.

The biggest issue isn't when you apply, it's whether you have qualifying wages in your base period. If you worked enough in 2023, you might still qualify even applying now. But if most of your recent work history is from 2024, your benefit amount could be very low or you might not qualify at all.

I worked full time all through 2023 at my previous job, so that should help right?

Why would you wait a YEAR to apply for unemployment?? The whole point is to help you when you first lose your job, not as a backup plan after everything else fails.

I know it sounds stupid now but I really thought I'd find something quickly. The job market has been brutal.

Don't listen to the criticism. Life happens and sometimes we don't know about all our options right away. The important thing is you're applying now. Washington ESD will determine if you qualify based on your work history and wages.

Thank you, I needed to hear that. I've been beating myself up about not applying sooner.

One more thing to consider - if you do qualify, you'll need to meet the current job search requirements. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week and you have to log them in your online account.

What counts as a job search activity? I've been applying to jobs but not keeping detailed records.

job search activities include applying for jobs, going to job fairs, networking meetings, skills training, etc. You need to keep track of everything with dates and details

Good to know. I'll start documenting everything if I get approved.

Just a heads up - if you do get approved, Washington ESD is really backed up right now. I used Claimyr again last month to check on my claim status and it saved me hours of trying to get through their phone system.

Is Claimyr legit though? Seems weird to pay someone to make phone calls for you

@profile 9 yeah its legit, they dont ask for your personal info or anything sketchy. they just help you get through to an actual person at washington esd instead of getting hung up on

Ok that makes more sense. The regular phone system is impossible.

The application process itself is pretty straightforward online. You'll need your Social Security number, employment history for the last 18 months, and reason for separation from each job. Be honest about why you waited to apply.

Should I mention the temp work I've done this past year even though none of it was steady?

Yes, report ALL work including temp jobs. Washington ESD needs a complete picture of your employment. Leaving out work can cause problems later and might be considered fraud.

Got it. I have records of everything so I'll include it all in my application.

honestly the worst they can do is say no. at least then you'll know for sure instead of wondering what if

True. I'm going to apply this week and see what happens.

Good luck! Even if your benefit amount is lower because of the timing, something is better than nothing while you're job hunting.

Exactly what I'm thinking. Any help would make a difference right now.

If you get denied initially, don't give up. You can appeal the decision and sometimes they'll reconsider based on your specific circumstances.

How long does the appeal process take if it comes to that?

Appeals can take 4-8 weeks depending on their backlog. But cross that bridge if you come to it. Apply first and see what happens with the initial determination.

Will do. Thanks everyone for the advice and encouragement!

Update us after you apply! I'm curious how it goes since I might be in a similar situation soon.

I will! Planning to apply online tomorrow morning.

One last tip - make sure you have direct deposit set up. Paper checks take forever and can get lost in the mail.

Good point. I'll have my bank info ready when I apply.

If you run into any issues during the application process or need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your specific situation, definitely consider using Claimyr. I've recommended it to several friends and they've all had good experiences getting through to agents quickly.

I bookmarked the site just in case. Hopefully I won't need it but good to have as backup.

The fact that you worked steadily through 2023 is definitely in your favor. Even with the delay in applying, you should have qualifying wages in your base period.

That's reassuring. I was a good employee there for over two years before the layoff.