How do unemployment benefits work in Washington - complete beginner needs help understanding the process

Thank you! So I apply online and then have to do something every week? What happens if I miss a week?

Yes, you file weekly claims every Sunday for the previous week. If you miss filing a weekly claim, you won't get paid for that week, but you can usually file it late within a certain timeframe. Just don't make it a habit.

What's a UBI number? Is that something I should have from my employer?

UBI stands for Unified Business Identifier - it's Washington state's business license number. You can usually find it on your paystubs or W-2, but if not, don't worry too much. Washington ESD can look up your employer without it.

Is that legit? How does it work exactly?

Yeah it's totally legitimate. They basically navigate the phone system for you and get you connected to a live agent. Way better than spending hours on hold or getting disconnected.

I was skeptical at first but ended up using Claimyr too when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Definitely worth it if you're having phone troubles.

3 job contacts per week? That seems like a lot. What counts as a job contact?

It's actually not that hard - applying for jobs online, attending job fairs, networking events, even informational interviews count. Just make sure you keep detailed records of what you did, when, and who you contacted.

I get the frustration, but once you learn the system it's really not that bad. The key is staying on top of your weekly claims and job search requirements.

maybe for some people but when your claim gets flagged for adjudication it's a nightmare trying to get answers

Is there a minimum amount too? What if I was only working part-time before?

There is a minimum weekly benefit amount, but you need to have earned a certain amount in your base period to qualify at all. Part-time workers can definitely qualify as long as they meet the earnings requirements.

So I can work part-time and still get some unemployment? I thought it was all or nothing.

Exactly! As long as you earn less than 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount, you'll get something. It encourages people to take part-time work while looking for full-time employment.

Wait, so I won't get paid for the first week even if I'm approved? That doesn't seem fair.

I know it seems unfair, but that's just how the system works. Think of it as a waiting period to make sure you're actually unemployed and not just taking a vacation.

What kind of documentation should I keep? I was laid off, not fired, so hopefully that's straightforward.

Layoffs are usually pretty straightforward. Keep any emails or paperwork from your employer about the layoff. If it was due to company downsizing or restructuring, that's even better documentation.

Good to know! I definitely want direct deposit. How long does it usually take for the first payment to hit your account?

Usually 2-3 business days after your weekly claim is processed. Much faster than waiting for a debit card to arrive in the mail.

What happens if I get sick while on unemployment? Do I lose my benefits?

If you're too sick to work, you wouldn't be available for work that week, so you wouldn't qualify for benefits that week. But once you're better, you can resume filing weekly claims.

Thanks for the encouragement! I was really worried about messing something up and losing benefits.

The system is pretty forgiving for honest mistakes. Just make sure you report everything accurately and respond to any requests for information promptly.

I'll definitely keep that in mind if I run into problems. Hopefully everything goes smoothly though!

Yeah hopefully you won't need it, but it's good to know it's there as a backup option.

Oh that's a good point! I hadn't thought about the tax implications of unemployment benefits.

Yeah, unemployment benefits are taxable income so you'll want to either have taxes withheld or set aside money for tax time. Washington ESD gives you the option to have federal taxes withheld when you file your weekly claims.

26 weeks should hopefully be plenty of time to find something new. I'm planning to start applying right away.

That's the right attitude! The sooner you find work, the better. Use the time on unemployment productively - maybe take some online courses or update your skills.

Yeah I'm grateful for forums like this where people share their experiences. Makes it way less intimidating.

exactly! paying it forward by helping others navigate the system

I wasn't in a union but that's good advice for others who might be reading this.

Yeah, just wanted to mention it since not everyone thinks to check with their union about unemployment resources.

That's really good advice. I was thinking about waiting a week or two to see if I heard back from any applications, but I'll file right away instead.

Definitely file right away. You can always cancel or stop filing if you find work quickly, but you can't go backwards and get benefits for weeks you didn't file.

Thank you so much everyone! This has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about the process now.

Glad we could help! Don't hesitate to ask if you run into specific issues as you go through the process.

Good luck with your job search! Remember, unemployment benefits are there to help you during this transition period.