How do you qualify for unemployment in Washington - confused about requirements

Thanks! So if I worked 8 months that should cover the hours requirement. Do you know how they calculate the wage requirement?

They look at your highest quarter earnings in the base period - you need to have earned at least $1,755 in your highest quarter to qualify.

Oh wow, that's really confusing. So they don't look at your most recent work?

Right, there's like a lag time. The most recent completed quarter before you file might not even count in your base period.

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

You need to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep a log of your job search activities. Washington ESD can audit your job search records.

How much does something like that cost? Seems like it should be free to talk to ESD.

It's worth it when you consider how much time you'd waste trying to get through on your own. I spent weeks trying to reach someone before I found this option.

Good point, I'll apply this week. Better to find out now than wait and lose time.

What kind of things trigger adjudication? I was definitely laid off, not fired.

Even layoffs can trigger adjudication if there are questions about the circumstances. Make sure you have documentation from your employer about the layoff.

Have you tried calling first thing in the morning? I've had better luck getting through around 8am.

I've tried everything. Called hundreds of times, different times of day, always busy or disconnected.

I was skeptical about using a third-party service at first, but honestly it saved me so much frustration. Got through to ESD in minutes instead of hours of calling.

I only worked in Washington so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Good, that makes it simpler. Just make sure all your Washington employers are reporting your wages correctly to ESD.

The wage and hour requirements are the same regardless of whether you were full-time or part-time. As long as you met the minimums, you should qualify.

That's good to know. I was worried part-time workers were excluded.

I didn't know about that. Is that the same login you use for the unemployment application?

Yes, it's all through the same SAW account. You can view your quarterly wage reports there.

If your employer contests, ESD will investigate and you'll have a chance to present your side. Keep any documentation you have about the layoff - emails, letters, anything that shows it wasn't for misconduct.

I have the layoff notice they gave me, so that should help prove it wasn't for cause.

How long did it take from application to first payment?

About 2 weeks total, but I didn't have any complications with my claim. Some people wait much longer if there are issues.

Monetary determination tells you how much you'll receive in benefits based on your wages. Eligibility determination confirms whether you qualify based on your work separation and other factors.

Thanks, that makes sense. So you need both to actually get benefits?

Is the WorkSource registration automatic or do I need to do that separately?

You need to register separately within a certain timeframe after filing your claim. Don't wait on this - it's required.

Your weekly benefit amount is based on your base period wages and is capped at a maximum. If you think it's calculated wrong, you can appeal the monetary determination.

I think the calculation is right, just wish it was higher. Unemployment doesn't replace your full wages.

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits. You need to report all earnings when you file your weekly claim, and they'll reduce your benefit amount accordingly.

Good to know. I might pick up some gig work while looking for full-time employment.

I didn't know about medical requirements. What if you have a minor injury?

As long as it doesn't prevent you from working or looking for work, it shouldn't be an issue. Just be honest about your situation.

I'm considering it but wasn't sure if it was legitimate. Good to hear from someone who actually used it.

Totally legitimate. They connect you with real ESD agents, not some third-party call center. Made all the difference for my situation.

Understood. I'm definitely planning to actively look for work. Just wanted to make sure I understand the qualification requirements first.

Good approach. Better to understand everything upfront than run into issues later. Good luck with your application!