Can you collect unemployment while on strike - Washington ESD rules?

That's what I was afraid of. Do you know if there are any exceptions to this rule?

What if the strike only lasts a few days? Would that still disqualify you?

Interesting, so it depends on whether you're actively striking or just affected by the strike?

Exactly. If you're locked out by the employer or if the strike affects your workplace but you're not part of the union, different rules might apply.

Did you try to appeal the decision?

Yeah, I appealed but lost. The hearing officer said the law is pretty black and white on this issue.

That's rough. How did you manage financially during those 3 weeks?

Thanks, I'll check that out. The regular phone lines are always busy when I try to call.

Never heard of Claimyr before but anything that helps get through to ESD sounds helpful.

Potentially yes, but it depends on the specific circumstances. You'd need to file and let Washington ESD make the determination.

this is confusing lol i should probably just call them

I get the frustration but the law exists for a reason. It prevents people from just going on strike to collect unemployment.

But that's not how strikes work at all. Nobody goes on strike just to get unemployment benefits.

My union has a strike fund that helps members during work stoppages. Maybe yours does too?

If your workplace shuts down due to a labor dispute elsewhere, you might be eligible since you're not participating in the dispute yourself.

That makes sense. I should probably file a claim if it happens and see what they say.

Good point. So I should keep track of when the strike starts and ends for my records?

Definitely. Document everything - when it started, when it ended, whether you participated or were just affected.

Lockouts are treated differently than strikes. If you're locked out, you're generally eligible for benefits since it's the employer's action, not yours.

That's interesting. So the key is whether it's voluntary (strike) or involuntary (lockout)?

Exactly. Washington ESD looks at who initiated the work stoppage.

How much does it cost to use?

They focus on the value of getting through rather than the cost. Worth checking out their site for details.

That's good advice. The details probably matter a lot for these edge cases.

Yes, be very clear about your employment status and relationship to the dispute.

Cross that bridge when you come to it. Focus on the negotiations first.

True, but it's good to know the rules ahead of time.

Thanks everyone for all the information. I'll definitely file if we do go on strike and let them decide.

Smart approach. Better to file and be denied than not file at all.

Good to know. At least there are options if the first decision doesn't go my way.

And if you need help reaching Washington ESD during the appeal process, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier might be useful for getting through to an actual person.

That's reassuring. The strike doesn't permanently affect your future eligibility?

Right, it's only during the actual labor dispute period that you're disqualified.