How can you be eligible for unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

What counts as 'enough wages' during the base period? I made about $42,000 last year but only worked 18 months at this job.

You need to have earned at least $5,265 in your base period AND at least $1,755 in your highest earning quarter. Since you made $42k in 18 months, you should easily meet the wage requirements.

Do I need to start the job search immediately or can I wait until my claim is approved?

You need to start your job search the week you file your claim. Don't wait for approval - you'll need to show you've been actively looking for work from the beginning.

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com). They have automated calling that keeps trying until you get through to an actual Washington ESD agent. Saved me hours of frustration! There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Really? That sounds too good to be true. Does it actually work for Washington ESD?

Yeah it worked for me! I was able to get my eligibility questions answered and they helped me understand why my claim was in adjudication. Way better than spending all day redialing.

What happens if I don't register with WorkSource? Will I lose my benefits?

Yes, failure to register can result in disqualification from benefits. It's one of the requirements Washington ESD uses to verify you're actively seeking work.

What was the reason for your initial denial? Sometimes there are issues with the separation reason that need to be clarified during adjudication.

They said my employer reported I was fired for cause but that was completely false. I had to provide documentation to prove I was laid off due to budget cuts.

What about if you're on standby? I heard there are different rules for that.

Standby is different - you can collect benefits while temporarily laid off with a specific return date, but you don't have to do the job search requirements. However, you still need to be available for work if called back.

How do I file weekly claims? Is it online or do I have to call?

you can do it online through the washington esd website or by phone. online is usually faster

What counts as 'suitable work'? Do I have to take any job offered to me?

Suitable work generally means jobs that match your skills and experience, pay at least 80% of your previous wage (in early weeks), and are within reasonable commuting distance. You can't be forced to take just any job, but the definition becomes broader the longer you're unemployed.

Washington ESD looks at all your W-2 wages from covered employment during the base period, regardless of how many different employers you had. They add up all your earnings from those quarters to see if you meet the minimum requirements.

That's helpful! I've had like 4 different jobs in the past 2 years so I wasn't sure how they'd count everything.

How much does it cost? I'm already stressed about money and don't want to pay if I don't have to.

I'd rather not discuss pricing here, but for me it was worth it to avoid the frustration of calling all day. You can check their website for details.

Students can qualify if they meet the wage requirements and are available for work. However, if you're attending school full-time, Washington ESD might consider you not 'available' for work, which could affect eligibility.

I'm only taking 2 classes this semester, so I should be considered available for work right?

6 weeks is really long. Have you tried calling to check on the status?

OF COURSE I've tried calling! That's the whole problem - you can't get through to anyone!

What can I do to speed up the adjudication process? I really need these benefits to pay my bills.

Make sure you've submitted all requested documentation promptly and continue filing your weekly claims. If you can get through to Washington ESD, you can ask about the specific status of your adjudication.

You may still qualify for partial benefits if your part-time earnings are less than your weekly benefit amount. Washington ESD has a formula for calculating partial benefits based on your part-time wages.

ok good because i really need the extra money right now

Yes, but it has to be documented medical reasons that make it impossible to continue working. You'll need medical documentation and Washington ESD will review it during adjudication to determine if it qualifies as 'good cause' for leaving.

That makes sense. I wasn't sure if all voluntary quits were automatically disqualifying.

Same here! I feel much more confident about filing my claim now.

Glad we could help! Remember to file your claim as soon as possible - you can't get benefits for weeks before you file.

How long does the appeal process take?

Mine took about 8 weeks from filing the appeal to getting the decision. It was stressful but worth it when I finally got approved and received all the back pay.

Independent contractors and gig workers generally don't qualify for regular unemployment benefits since they don't pay into the system. However, there may be other programs available depending on your specific situation.

darn i was hoping i could get something since my uber driving income has been so low lately

I might have to try that. I've been calling for 2 weeks with no luck.

It's definitely worth it if you're spending hours trying to get through. Check out that demo video I mentioned earlier to see how it works.

That covers the main requirements! I'd add that you need to file your weekly claims consistently and report any changes in your work status promptly.

Perfect summary! Thanks everyone for helping me understand the eligibility requirements.