How do I know if I'm eligible for Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

Thanks! What exactly counts as 'covered employment'? I assume my regular manufacturing job counts but want to be sure.

Most regular W-2 jobs are covered employment. Manufacturing definitely counts. Independent contractor work usually doesn't unless you paid into the system voluntarily.

Thanks! What counts as the base period exactly? I'm trying to figure out if my 8 months plus the 6 months part-time work would be enough.

The base period is the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would be January-December 2024. You need to have earned at least $1,000 in your base period and worked in at least 2 quarters.

This is good advice. I spent weeks trying to figure out if I qualified and should have just applied right away. The worst they can do is say no.

Actually that's not true - if you apply when you're not eligible it can cause problems later. Better to check first.

I know I'm probably overthinking but I just want to be prepared. Don't want to mess anything up.

What does 'actively seeking employment' mean exactly? Like how many jobs do I need to apply for?

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or even informational interviews. Keep a log of everything.

I had so much trouble with the job search requirements when I was on unemployment. The WorkSource registration was confusing too. Ended up using Claimyr to get through to someone at Washington ESD who could explain it properly. They have this video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how their service works.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money since I just lost my job.

It's worth it for the peace of mind and to avoid potential issues. Plus if you're eligible, you'll get your benefits faster by having everything sorted out upfront.

I used Claimyr too when I couldn't get through to Washington ESD. Saved me so much time and frustration trying to call them myself.

Where exactly is that calculator? I've been looking around the Washington ESD site but it's kind of confusing to navigate.

It's under the 'Am I Eligible' section on their main unemployment page. But like I said, it's pretty basic - doesn't cover all the nuances.

Good point. I haven't started looking yet since I just got laid off. Should I start job searching before I even apply for unemployment?

You should start as soon as possible. The job search requirement begins the week you file your claim, so you'll need to have activities to report on your first weekly claim.

I am getting a small severance - about 3 weeks pay. Will that completely disqualify me or just delay things?

It won't disqualify you, but it might delay your benefits. The severance gets allocated over the period it represents, so if it's 3 weeks pay, it might cover those 3 weeks before unemployment kicks in.

Actually, Washington ESD changed their severance rules somewhat recently. It depends on how the severance is structured. Some lump sum payments are handled differently than others.

Adjudication means they're reviewing your case to determine eligibility. It can take several weeks, especially if there are any questions about your separation from work or wage history.

Same thing happened to me. Took almost a month to get through adjudication but I did eventually get approved. Just have to be patient unfortunately.

That's kind of my thinking too. I'm just worried about messing up the application somehow.

The application is pretty straightforward actually. Just have your employment history ready and be honest about everything.

How do they calculate the weekly amount exactly? Is there a formula I can use to estimate?

It's based on your highest quarter earnings in your base year. They take that amount, divide by 26, then multiply by 0.0385 to get your weekly benefit amount. There are minimum and maximum limits though.

Those calculations always confused me. When I needed to figure out my benefit amount, I used claimyr.com to get connected with a Washington ESD agent who walked me through it. Way easier than trying to do the math myself.

That's helpful! I still have all my pay stubs and employment paperwork. Should I gather anything else?

Your Social Security card, driver's license, and any severance or separation paperwork from your employer. Also helpful to have your bank account info for direct deposit setup.

Don't forget to report any vacation pay or severance pay you received. That can affect your benefit amount or timing.

True, I guess I'm just nervous about the whole process since I've never done this before.

When do you get the monetary determination letter? Is that after you apply?

Yes, you'll receive it within a few days to a week after filing your initial claim, assuming there are no issues that require adjudication.

My last day was this past Friday. Should I apply this week or wait until next week?

Apply this week for sure. You can apply for the week you were laid off even if you worked part of that week.

Exactly right. The sooner you apply, the sooner your claim gets processed. Even if there are delays, you'll get backpay to your effective date.

What counts as misconduct though? I've heard of people getting denied for really minor things.

Misconduct has to be willful disregard of your employer's interests. Things like excessive tardiness, insubordination, or violating company policies. Minor mistakes or poor performance usually don't count.

What's a waiting week? Does that mean I won't get paid for the first week?

Yes, there's a one-week waiting period where you won't receive benefits, but you still need to file your weekly claim for that week. It's just how the system works.

I tried that tool but found it pretty basic. Doesn't really account for complicated situations.

I'll check it out though, thanks! Every bit of info helps right now.

A few people have mentioned Claimyr now. Seems like it might be worth looking into if I can't figure this out on my own.

I was skeptical about using a service like that but honestly it saved me so much time and stress. Sometimes it's worth paying for help when you're dealing with government bureaucracy.

Good point. I'm definitely available and looking for work. Not planning to go back to school or anything like that.

There are some exceptions for training programs approved by Washington ESD, but you have to get approval first before starting any education or training.

That's encouraging! I'm definitely going to apply. Thanks everyone for all the helpful information.

Good luck! The process can be frustrating but it's worth it if you qualify. Just be patient and make sure you file your weekly claims on time.

What would they contest? I was definitely laid off, not fired for performance or anything.

Sometimes employers contest claims to avoid their unemployment tax rates going up. But with a clear layoff situation like yours, they probably won't bother.

What's involved in the WorkSource registration? Do I have to do that before applying for unemployment?

You can do it after filing your initial claim, but you need to do it before your first weekly claim. It's basically creating a profile on their job search website.

Good point. I'll start a folder right away. Thanks for all the help everyone!

No problem! The manufacturing sector has been hit hard lately, so you're definitely not alone in this situation.

I've heard the phone system is bad. Are there other ways to get help if I have questions?

You can try their online messaging system, but response times are slow. I ended up using a service called Claimyr that helps you get through to agents. Worked great for me.

The local WorkSource offices can also help with basic questions, though they're not Washington ESD staff so they can't access your specific claim details.

You're right. I'll apply tomorrow morning. Thanks for the reality check!

Thanks! I feel much more confident about this now. This forum has been super helpful.