Do I get Washington ESD unemployment if I get laid off from my job?

Yes, getting laid off generally qualifies you for unemployment benefits in Washington. Since you were involuntarily separated from work, you should be eligible as long as you meet the basic requirements like having worked enough hours in your base period. The key is that it wasn't your fault - layoffs qualify, getting fired for misconduct doesn't.

The process is pretty straightforward once you get started. You file your initial claim online through the Washington ESD website, then you have to file weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. Make sure you file your claim right after you get laid off - don't wait around.

Just went through this exact situation last year. Got laid off in March and was able to get unemployment without any issues. The hardest part honestly was just getting through to someone at Washington ESD when I had questions about my claim. Their phone lines are always busy and you get disconnected constantly.

ugh i hate that you even have to worry about this stuff. companies just laying people off left and right these days with no warning

When you file your claim, make sure you have all your employment information ready - dates of employment, employer contact info, reason for separation, etc. Also keep in mind you'll need to actively search for work and report your job search activities on your weekly claims. Washington requires 3 job search activities per week.

Your benefit amount will be roughly half your average weekly wage, up to a maximum. With your salary you'll probably get close to the max weekly benefit amount. In 2025 I think it's around $790 per week max.

Make sure your employer doesn't try to fight your claim. Most layoffs are pretty clear cut but some employers will challenge claims to keep their unemployment tax rates low.

honestly the worst part about unemployment is dealing with the bureaucracy. like why does everything have to be so complicated?? just give people money when they lose their jobs through no fault of their own

One thing to watch out for - if you get any severance pay, it might affect when your benefits start. Washington ESD has rules about how severance is treated. I think if it's paid as a lump sum it's different than if it's paid out over time.

Also just a heads up - the Washington ESD website can be glitchy sometimes, especially on Sundays when everyone is filing their weekly claims. Try to file early in the week if possible to avoid the rush.

my buddy got laid off last year and his claim got stuck in adjudication for like 6 weeks. apparently his previous employer reported some conflicting info about his termination date or something. he was freaking out about his mortgage payments

Don't forget that you can file your claim online 24/7, but if you need help or have questions, calling during off-peak hours helps. Early morning or mid-afternoon tends to be better than calling first thing Monday morning when everyone else is calling too.

Another thing - start updating your resume and LinkedIn now while you still have a job. It's easier to job search when you're not stressed about money and have time to be selective.

Wait, do you have to pay taxes on unemployment benefits? I remember something about that but can't remember the details.

the whole thing is just so dehumanizing. like you lose your job and then you have to jump through all these hoops just to get basic assistance. ugh.

Pro tip: keep detailed records of everything - when you filed, confirmation numbers, any correspondence from Washington ESD, your job search log, etc. Having good records helps if there are any issues with your claim later.

I went through a layoff situation 3 years ago and the whole process was actually smoother than I expected. Filed my claim on a Tuesday, got my first payment 2 weeks later. The key is just being thorough and honest on your application.

Just remember that getting laid off isn't your fault and you've earned these benefits through your work. Don't feel bad about collecting unemployment - that's exactly what it's there for.

if you end up having trouble getting through to washington esd by phone, there are services that can help. i used one called claimyr when my claim got stuck and they got me connected to an agent same day. way better than spending hours on hold

One more tip - if you do get laid off, ask your employer for a letter stating the reason for separation and your last day of work. Sometimes having that documentation helps if there are any questions about your claim.