How long are unemployment benefits in Washington - confused about duration limits

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks max? No exceptions for people who worked longer or anything like that?

Correct, 26 weeks is the standard maximum for regular UI benefits in Washington. Your work history affects your weekly benefit amount, not the duration.

The COVID-era extensions like PEUC and extended benefits ended a while back. We're back to the standard 26-week limit for regular unemployment insurance.

oh ok thanks for clearing that up

How does that work exactly? Do they charge you for getting through?

They help you navigate the phone system more efficiently. Worth it considering how impossible it is to reach Washington ESD normally.

Wait, so if I use up all 26 weeks, I can't file again until a full year has passed?

You can file a new claim after your benefit year ends, but you'll need to meet the work and wage requirements again based on more recent employment.

This is exactly the kind of confusing stuff that makes the whole system so hard to navigate. Why can't they just explain this clearly on their website?

Actually, the 26-week duration is pretty standard. Most states have the same basic structure - it's federal guidelines.

still confusing though

WorkSource Washington offers various training programs and extended support. You should connect with them before your benefits run out to explore options.

Thanks, I'll look into that. Hoping I find something before then but good to have a backup plan.

I used WorkSource for retraining after my benefits ended. They have some decent programs if you qualify.

Washington eliminated the waiting week requirement several years ago. You can receive benefits starting from your first eligible week now.

Oh good to know! That's definitely an improvement from when I filed years ago.

What kind of complications? I want to make sure I don't mess anything up.

It didn't extend my benefit period, but it created gaps in my payment schedule that took weeks to resolve. Just stay on top of filing every week.

Part-time work doesn't extend your benefit duration, but it can affect your weekly benefit amount. You still have the same 26-week maximum, but you might receive partial benefits for weeks when you work.

ok so still same timeline just less money those weeks, got it

How many jobs do you have to apply to per week? I've seen different numbers.

In Washington, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a detailed log. More if Washington ESD requires it based on your situation.

The job search requirements stress me out more than anything else about unemployment.

Yes, standby benefits count toward your 26-week maximum. Whether you're on regular UI or standby, you're drawing from the same pool of benefits.

That makes sense. Thanks for clarifying.

Good advice. I'm trying to be realistic about what jobs I'll consider rather than holding out for the perfect opportunity.

Smart approach. The job market's competitive right now so casting a wider net definitely helps.

If you work enough to earn sufficient wages and then become unemployed again through no fault of your own, you can potentially qualify for a new claim. But you'd need to meet Washington ESD's work and wage requirements again.

how much do you need to earn to qualify again?

It varies based on your wages during the base period. Generally you need at least $7,000 in total wages with earnings in multiple quarters.

I totally agree. The job search process takes so much longer now with all the online applications and multiple interview rounds.

Extended benefits only trigger during periods of high unemployment rates. Right now the state doesn't meet the federal requirements for extensions.

I've been trying to call Washington ESD for two weeks about my claim timeline. Might have to try something like that.

It's frustrating that we need workarounds just to get basic information, but at least the option exists.

Good point! I almost forgot to file one week while my claim was in adjudication.

yeah they don't make that very clear but its important

What defines an economic emergency for extension purposes?

Usually when the state's unemployment rate reaches certain federal thresholds. It's not something individuals can petition for - it's based on statewide economic indicators.

Thanks everyone for all the info. This thread has been really helpful for understanding the timeline I'm working with.

Glad we could help! Good luck with your job search.

That seems really unfair if their system problems prevent you from filing properly.

It is frustrating, but that's why it's important to document everything and keep trying to file your weekly claims even when their website is having issues.

Great advice. The paperwork and approval process for other programs can take weeks anyway.

I'll definitely keep that in mind as I get further into my claim period. Thanks for thinking ahead!