Can you get unemployment if you are laid off in Washington state?

That's such a relief to hear! Do you know roughly how much I might get? I'm making about $4,200 a month right now.

It's based on your earnings over the past year, but typically ranges from 60-74% of your average weekly wage up to a maximum. With your current salary you'd probably get close to the max weekly benefit amount.

Good to know about the timeline. Should I tell my employer I'm planning to file for unemployment or just handle it myself?

You don't need to tell them, Washington ESD will contact your employer directly to verify your separation reason and wages. It's completely normal and expected.

Ugh yes! I had the same problem when I was trying to get info about my adjudication. I finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually gets you through to ESD agents. They have this demo video (https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ) that shows how it works. Saved me so much frustration honestly.

Wish I had known about that! I probably wasted 20+ hours trying to get through on my own.

Adjudication is when Washington ESD needs to investigate something about your claim before they can approve it. For a straightforward layoff it's pretty unlikely, but it can happen if there are questions about your separation or work history.

I wouldn't stress about it too much. Most layoff claims get approved without any issues since the reason for separation is clear.

How many job contacts do I need to make? And what counts as a 'contact'?

You need at least 3 job search activities per week. This can include applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, etc. Make sure to log everything in the system when you file your weekly claims.

The job search thing is honestly more work than my actual job was lol. But you gotta do it or they'll stop your benefits.

Good tip! When do you file the weekly claims? Is it the same day each week?

You can file starting Sunday for the previous week. I always do mine Sunday morning so I don't forget. Set a calendar reminder!

What kind of things can mess up your weekly claims? I'm paranoid about doing something wrong.

main things are forgetting to report any work/earnings that week, not doing enough job search activities, or missing the deadline to file. as long as you're honest and consistent you should be fine

What documents do I need besides employment history? Do I need pay stubs or anything?

You don't need to upload pay stubs initially, but it's good to have them handy in case Washington ESD requests them later. Mostly just need employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and your reason for separation.

Oh wow, I didn't think about that. My company mentioned they might offer some severance. How do I know if it will affect my claim?

It depends on how your employer structures the severance. If it's considered 'wages in lieu of notice' it might create a waiting period. Best to be upfront about it when you file and let Washington ESD make the determination.

Thanks for saying that. I'm definitely feeling anxious about the whole situation, not just the paperwork part.

Totally normal to feel that way! Losing a job is stressful even when it's not your fault. The unemployment benefits will help bridge the gap while you find something new.

That sounds really helpful! Was it expensive to use?

It was worth it for me just to get peace of mind that everything was filed correctly. Way better than wasting hours trying to get through on my own.

Wait, so I won't get paid for my first week? Even though I'm filing right away?

Correct, the first week is a waiting week. You still need to file a weekly claim for it, but you won't get paid for that week. It's just how the system works in Washington.

That's such BS honestly. Like people don't have bills to pay right away when they lose their job 🙄

How would I know if they're fighting it? Would Washington ESD tell me?

Yeah, you'd get a notice if your employer disputes your claim. They have a chance to respond when ESD contacts them about your separation. If it's truly a layoff due to lack of work, they shouldn't have any reason to dispute it.

Good thinking! How long does it usually take to get the first payment with direct deposit?

After your claim is approved, usually 2-3 business days for direct deposit. Much better than waiting for a check in the mail.

I second this! Direct deposit saved me so much hassle. Set it up right away.