Can you get unemployment from Uber driving in Washington?

What's the base period earnings requirement? I made decent money some months but others were really slow.

You need at least $1,122 in your base period quarters to qualify. Washington ESD uses your highest quarter earnings and a formula to determine your weekly benefit amount.

Did you eventually get approved? I'm worried about running into the same issues.

Yeah but it took weeks of back and forth. I wish I'd known about services that help you get through to Washington ESD faster.

Never heard of this service before. Does it actually work for getting through to Washington ESD?

It's been a game changer for me. No more sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

Seems too good to be true but I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point.

I think I reported everything but I'm not 100% sure. Should I check my tax returns before applying?

Definitely. Pull your 1099s from Uber and make sure they match what you filed. Any inconsistencies will delay your claim.

Washington allows it for independent contractors who meet the earnings requirements. It's not the same as the pandemic benefits that expired.

oh ok thats news to me. gonna look into this for my situation too

I'm still doing some drives but way less than before. Not sure how to handle that on the weekly claims.

You need to report any earnings on your weekly claims, even gig work income. Washington ESD will reduce your benefits based on what you earn.

Thanks for clarifying. The whole system is confusing when you're not a traditional employee.

What kind of job search activities count? I've been looking at some warehouse jobs.

Any legitimate job applications count. Just keep detailed records in your job search log for Washington ESD.

The system wasn't originally designed for gig workers. They've had to adapt the rules and it's created a lot of confusion.

Well they need to do better. People are struggling out here.

How long did it take to resolve your earnings issue?

Once I got through to an agent, they fixed it the same day. The hard part is just getting that initial contact.

Just make sure you have all your earnings documentation ready. Washington ESD will want to see proof of your gig income.

Good tip. I'll gather all my 1099s before starting the application.

For gig work, you'd typically put something like 'Self-employed' or 'Independent Contractor' in the employer field. Include Uber as your client/platform.

That makes sense. I was overthinking it.

You can still work part-time while receiving benefits, but you must report all earnings on your weekly claims. Your benefit amount will be reduced based on what you earn.

ok so partial benefits basically. that could help with the bills at least

Exactly. I used to make $20+ per hour consistently. Now I'm lucky to hit $15 after expenses.

Same here. The market is completely different than it was even a year ago.

How much longer are we talking? I need to know what to expect.

Mine took about 6 weeks total. Some people get through faster, others take longer. It really depends on how clear your documentation is.

I might actually need this. My claim has been pending for 3 weeks with no updates.

Definitely worth trying. The peace of mind of knowing what's happening with your claim is invaluable.

I successfully received benefits after driving for Uber. It took time and patience, but it worked out.

That's encouraging. What was your weekly benefit amount if you don't mind me asking?

I'd rather not share specifics, but it was based on my highest earning quarter. The formula is on Washington ESD's website.

Good luck! Remember to keep detailed records of everything you submit to Washington ESD.

Will do. I'll update this thread if I learn anything new during the process.

Agreed. Too many people don't realize they might qualify for unemployment benefits after doing contract work.

Washington ESD should do a better job publicizing this option for independent contractors.

Yes, registration with WorkSource is required for all unemployment claimants in Washington, including those with 1099 income. It's part of the job search requirements.

Got it. I'll make sure to do that as part of my application process.

Absolutely. It's nice to know there are options and people willing to help navigate the system.

That's what these forums are for. We're all in this together.