How long at job for unemployment benefits in Washington - minimum work requirement?

What exactly is the base period? Is that just the last year or something different?

The base period is usually the first 4 quarters of the last 5 completed quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would typically be January 2023 through December 2023.

No, there's no minimum time requirement at one job. It's all about your total wages earned during the base period across all employers.

oh ok that makes more sense. thanks for clearing that up

Really? That sounds too good to be true. Washington ESD phone lines are always jammed.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked. They handle the calling and waiting for you, then patch you through when they get an agent.

That second part sounds complicated. How would I even calculate that?

Washington ESD calculates it automatically when you apply. You just need to provide accurate wage information for all your employers during the base period.

This is why I hate dealing with unemployment stuff. Too many rules and calculations.

What counts as 'actively seeking work'? Do I have to apply for a certain number of jobs each week?

Yes, you typically need to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep a detailed log. The requirements can vary based on your situation though.

That's reassuring! So they count wages from ALL jobs during the base period, not just your most recent one?

Exactly! All W-2 wages from any employer during that time period count toward your eligibility.

The current system is designed to account for people who work multiple jobs, seasonal work, or have gaps in employment. It's more flexible than a simple time requirement.

I guess that makes sense but it's still confusing for regular people trying to figure out if they qualify.

Good point. Is there any penalty for filing if you end up not qualifying?

No penalty for filing an invalid claim as long as you're honest about your information. They just won't approve benefits if you don't meet the requirements.

How much does something like that cost though?

It's worth it when you consider the alternative is spending hours on hold or never getting through at all. Way less stressful.

Most likely yes, assuming you earned enough wages and weren't fired for misconduct. But the reason for termination matters for eligibility.

Remember the base period isn't necessarily the past year - it depends on when you file your claim. Check the Washington ESD website for the exact quarters that would be your base period.

Thanks, I'll look that up. This stuff is more complicated than I thought.

I don't think it's intentionally confusing, just trying to cover a lot of different work situations fairly.

Maybe, but they could definitely explain it better on their website.

That's exactly the kind of situation I'm worried about. Good to know it worked out for you!

Good advice. Should I include wages from jobs I had 2+ years ago?

Only if they fall within your base period. Anything outside that timeframe won't count for eligibility.

Good point. Washington ESD automatically checks the alternate base period if you don't qualify under the regular one.

So they basically give you two chances to qualify? That's helpful to know.

You're probably right. I'm overthinking this. Thanks everyone for the help!

What happens if you don't meet the job search requirements?

They can stop your benefits and sometimes make you pay back what you already received. It's serious.

Did they help you understand the WorkSourceWA requirements too?

Yes! The agent walked me through the whole registration process and what activities count toward job search requirements.

Perfect summary. Thanks everyone, this thread was really helpful!

Good to know. Hopefully I won't need to use this information but better to be prepared.