Do temp agencies pay unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about eligibility

That's a relief! I was worried because I worked for different companies through the agency. Do I list the temp agency as my employer when filing?

Exactly - you list the temp agency as your employer since they're the ones who actually employed you and paid your wages.

Good point about the pay stubs. I have most of them but might be missing a few from earlier assignments.

Washington ESD can get wage information directly from employers, so don't stress too much about missing a few pay stubs. They'll verify your earnings.

I had the same problem trying to reach them about my temp work eligibility. Someone told me about claimyr.com - it's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Interesting, never heard of that before. Does it actually work for getting through their phone system?

Yeah it worked for me when I had questions about my temp agency wages. Saved me hours of calling and getting nowhere.

Did you have any issues during the claims process because of the temp work?

Nope, went smoothly once I provided the temp agency's information. Just be honest about your work history.

Yes, if you're not currently working and the agency doesn't have immediate work available, you can file. You just need to be available for work and actively seeking employment.

ok cool, wasn't sure about that part

What's the base period exactly? I keep seeing that term but don't understand it.

The base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would be January 2024 through December 2024.

That's encouraging to hear. Did you ever have gaps between when assignments ended and when you filed?

Sometimes yeah, but as long as you file within a reasonable time after becoming unemployed you should be fine.

Good point! I definitely got W2s from the temp agency, so I should be covered.

Exactly right - W2 employees are covered by unemployment insurance, 1099 contractors are not.

Thanks, I'll start the online application today. Feel much more confident about it now.

You're right, I was probably worrying over nothing. Just wanted to make sure before filing.

better to ask than mess up your claim, you did the right thing checking first

I think I should have enough wages since I worked pretty consistently for 8 months.

8 months of consistent temp work should definitely meet the wage requirements for Washington unemployment benefits.

I know someone who used claimyr.com to get through to Washington ESD when they couldn't reach them normally. Might be worth trying if you need to talk to someone.

might have to look into that, this phone system is ridiculous

Did you ever work for multiple temp agencies at the same time? Wondering how that affects things.

yeah a couple times. just report all your wages from all agencies when you file

That makes sense. I was probably overthinking the temp aspect of it.

How long did it take to get approved? I'm hoping it won't take too long.

took about 2 weeks for me but that was without any complications

Perfect, thanks for the confirmation. I'll get my application submitted today.

That's exactly what I needed to hear. Really appreciate everyone's help with this!

Good luck with your claim! Remember to file your weekly claims on time once you get approved.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses. I feel much better about filing now.

This forum is great for getting real answers. Going to file my claim right now!