Can you collect unemployment in Washington - qualification requirements?

Thank you! That's really helpful. What exactly counts as the 'base period'? I'm still confused about that part.

The base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would be October 2023 through September 2024. Washington ESD uses this to calculate your weekly benefit amount.

That's encouraging! I did have another part-time job earlier last year, so maybe that will help with the wage requirements.

Definitely apply even if you're not sure. The worst they can do is say no, but you might be surprised. I thought I wouldn't qualify and ended up getting approved.

I had the same problem with calling Washington ESD - spent hours on hold just to get disconnected. What finally worked for me was using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They have this system that calls Washington ESD for you and gets you connected to an actual agent. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Interesting, I've never heard of that. Does it actually work or is it just another scam?

No it's legit - I was skeptical too but it actually got me through to an agent in about 20 minutes. Way better than spending all day hitting redial.

Good point, I'll start the application today. Is there anything I need to gather before I start the online application?

You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and information about your last employer (name, address, dates worked, reason for separation). Also helpful to have your last pay stub or W-2 if you have it handy.

Wait, what kind of job search activities count? I've been applying to jobs but didn't know I needed to log them somewhere specific.

Job applications, networking activities, attending job fairs, skills assessments, interviews - lots of things count. You log them at WorkSourceWA.com. The important thing is to do it consistently and keep good records.

This is all really helpful information. I had no idea about the job search logging requirement.

I feel you on that. The bureaucracy is insane. But for basic claims like the OP's situation, it's usually pretty straightforward if you just follow the steps.

yeah you're probably right. i'm just bitter after dealing with their appeals process lol

Yes, unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld when you file your weekly claims, or you can pay them when you file your tax return. I'd recommend having them withheld to avoid a big tax bill later.

Thanks for clarifying that. Definitely good to know upfront.

Actually yes, my hours were cut pretty significantly in the last few weeks before the layoff. Should I mention that in my application?

Definitely mention it. You might be able to get benefits for those weeks when your hours were reduced if it was a significant cut. Washington ESD considers partial unemployment too.

I tried that strategy and still couldn't get through. The call volume is just insane right now. That Claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier might be worth looking into if you really need to reach them.

Yeah I've heard good things about Claimyr from other people too. Sometimes you just need to get creative when the normal methods don't work.

Good to know! Hopefully it won't come to that, but it's reassuring to know there are options if something goes wrong.

The appeal process can take a while though, so definitely make sure your initial application is as complete and accurate as possible.

That's really encouraging to hear! I was getting worried after reading about all the delays and problems people are having.

Yeah, the problem cases tend to be the loudest on forums like this. Plenty of people get through the process without major issues.

I was definitely laid off due to business reasons, not fired for anything I did wrong. Thanks for pointing out that distinction though.

Yeah that's a crucial difference. Misconduct disqualifications can be really hard to overcome.

I had to do identity verification and it took about a week. Just make sure you have clear photos of your documents and follow the instructions exactly.

ok good to know, thanks

That's interesting - I actually made more per hour at my previous job, so maybe that will help. Thanks for explaining how the calculation works.

The maximum weekly benefit amount in Washington is currently around $999, but most people get somewhere between $200-600 depending on their wages.

That's good to know! I wasn't sure if I could do any work at all while collecting benefits.

Yeah, they actually encourage part-time work as a way to transition back to full-time employment. Just be honest about your earnings when you file your weekly claims.