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

Thanks! So they look at quarters not just total time worked? I'm not sure what my highest quarter wages were, is there a way to check that?

Yes, you can log into your SecureAccess Washington account and view your wage history, or Washington ESD will calculate it when you file your initial claim.

What counts as 'suitable work'? Do I have to take any job or can I hold out for something in my field?

Generally suitable work is similar to your previous job in terms of wages, hours, and working conditions. But after several weeks, the definition can expand to include lower-paying positions.

Never heard of that service before, does it actually work? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days with no luck.

Yeah it really does work. I was skeptical too but got through on my first try. Way better than sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

I might have to try that, I've called like 50 times this week and can't get through to anyone at Washington ESD.

What counts as a job search contact? Does applying online count or do you need to talk to someone?

Online applications count, but you need to document the employer name, position, date, and method of contact. WorkSourceWA also has approved activities that count.

I think I should be okay on the wages since I worked full time for over a year, but how do I know for sure before filing?

Just file your claim and Washington ESD will do the calculation automatically. If you don't qualify, they'll send you a determination letter explaining why.

I know it's frustrating, but once you get through the initial application it's much clearer. The key is just starting the process.

I guess I should just file and see what happens. Worst case they say no right?

What if you were fired for performance issues? Does that disqualify you?

It depends on whether Washington ESD considers it misconduct. Poor performance due to inability isn't usually misconduct, but willful violations of company policy can be.

That's a relief, I was worried I wouldn't qualify because I was struggling in my last job.

I've been unemployed for 2 weeks already, did I miss out on those benefits?

You can still get benefits for those weeks if you file soon and they're within your benefit year, but don't wait any longer.

Is the online system reliable? I've heard people have problems with it.

It works most of the time but can be slow during peak hours. Best to file early in the morning or late at night.

That's reassuring, I was worried about making a mistake on the application.

Just be honest and thorough in your answers. If they need more information, they'll ask for it during the review process.

What's adjudication? Should I be worried about that?

It's just when Washington ESD needs to investigate something about your claim, like if your employer says you were fired for misconduct. Most people don't go through it.

I went through adjudication too and it was nerve-wracking but turned out fine. They just needed to verify the reason I was laid off.

Is WorkSourceWA mandatory or just recommended?

It's required for most people receiving UI benefits. You'll need to complete their orientation and maintain an active profile.

How much does that service cost? I'm already tight on money from being unemployed.

Check their website at claimyr.com for current info. For me it was worth it just to avoid the endless phone tree and busy signals.

I made about $45,000 last year working full time, does that sound like enough?

That should definitely be enough, especially if it was spread across multiple quarters. The system is designed to help full-time workers who lose their jobs.

How do you file weekly claims? Is it the same website?

Yes, through the same Washington ESD website. You'll get instructions after your initial claim is processed.

And make sure you file on time every week! I missed one deadline and lost a week of benefits even though it was just one day late.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I'm going to file my claim tomorrow morning.

Good luck! The process seems overwhelming at first but it's pretty straightforward once you get started.

Good point, I'll gather all that info before I start the application.

Also have your Social Security card and ID ready in case you need to verify your identity during the process.

That's encouraging to hear. I remember hearing horror stories about the system during COVID.

Yeah those days are mostly behind us now. The system is much more stable and user-friendly than it used to be.

Good to know. What if I do some freelance work occasionally?

Report all income, including freelance work. Washington ESD allows you to earn a small amount without losing benefits, but you must report it.

You're right, I've been overthinking this way too much. Time to just do it!

Exactly! The worst thing that can happen is they say you don't qualify, but at least you'll know for sure.