Can you get unemployment benefits in Washington - need help understanding eligibility

You likely qualify if you worked 8 months. Washington ESD requires you to have worked in at least two quarters during your base period and earned a minimum amount. Since you were let go due to restructuring (not misconduct), you should be eligible. You'll need to file your initial claim online at esd.wa.gov.

yeah you can def get it if they laid you off. i got mine approved pretty quick when my restaurant closed down. just make sure you apply right away because there's a waiting week

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I needed to check on my claim status. Their phone lines are constantly busy. If you run into issues reaching them, I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Made dealing with Washington ESD way less frustrating.

The Washington ESD website is pretty straightforward for filing your initial claim. Just be prepared that it might take a few weeks to get your first payment. Also make SURE you file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still pending adjudication.

Since you mentioned you were fired due to restructuring and not misconduct, you should be fine. Washington ESD will still verify with your employer, so if they try to claim it was for cause, be prepared to provide your side of the story. Keep any documentation you have about the layoff.

Just went through this process myself. The hardest part honestly is just navigating the Washington ESD website the first time. Once you get your claim filed, you'll get a determination letter in the mail within a couple weeks telling you if you're approved and how much you'll get.

Don't forget you'll need to register with WorkSourceWA and start doing job search activities. Washington ESD requires proof of job search efforts when you file your weekly claims. They want to see you're actively looking for work.

One thing to watch out for - if you have any issues with your claim getting stuck in adjudication, it can take FOREVER to resolve. I was stuck for 6 weeks waiting for them to verify my employment. The Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier actually helped me get through to sort that out.

Washington ESD has been pretty good lately about processing claims quickly. When the pandemic hit they were swamped but things have improved a lot. Just make sure all your information is accurate when you file to avoid delays.

Pro tip: file your claim on Sunday night or early Monday morning. The website is less busy then and you're less likely to run into technical issues. Also, your weekly claim filing day will be whatever day you file your initial claim.

Make sure you understand the difference between being able to work and available for work. Washington ESD requires both. If you're sick, on vacation, or otherwise unable to accept work during a week, you need to report that on your weekly claim.

The Washington ESD customer service has gotten better but calling them is still a pain. If you do need to call, try right when they open at 8 AM or during lunch hours when call volume might be lower.

Don't stress too much about the process. Millions of people file for unemployment every year and most claims go through fine. Just be honest, keep good records, and file your weekly claims on time. You'll probably have your determination within 2-3 weeks.