How long can I collect Washington ESD unemployment if I get laid off - duration limits?

Thanks! What exactly counts as job search activities? Do I need to apply to a certain number of jobs each week?

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week. This includes applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or WorkSourceWA workshops. Keep detailed records because Washington ESD audits these.

Did you have any trouble getting through to Washington ESD when you had questions? I'm already dreading dealing with their phone system.

Oh god yes, their phone system is a nightmare. I spent hours trying to get through. Eventually found this service called Claimyr that helped me connect to an actual agent - totally worth it. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Are there any situations where you can get benefits for longer than 26 weeks?

Yes, if you're in certain training programs approved by Washington ESD, you might be able to extend benefits. Also, federal emergency extensions sometimes happen during economic downturns, but those require congressional action.

I was in a training program and got extended benefits for almost a year total. But you have to get pre-approved and it has to be for a high-demand occupation.

The duration is still up to 26 weeks, but your weekly benefit amount will be lower because it's based on your wages. You also need to have earned enough in your base period to qualify - minimum of $1,056 in your highest quarter.

ok good i was worried id only get like 10 weeks or something

That's confusing. So if I get a job after 10 weeks of unemployment, then get laid off again 3 months later, I still have 16 weeks left?

Exactly, as long as you're still within your original benefit year. But you'd need to meet the work requirements again - usually working at least 680 hours or earning 6 times your weekly benefit amount.

Ugh I feel you! I used Claimyr.com to finally talk to someone about my adjudication. Cost a bit but saved my sanity. They got me connected within an hour when I'd been trying for weeks.

Really? How does that work? I'm desperate at this point.

They basically handle the calling for you and get you connected to an actual Washington ESD rep. Way better than sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

Good point. Should I apply the day I'm laid off or wait until my last paycheck clears?

Apply the Sunday after your last day of work. Washington ESD processes weekly claims from Sunday to Saturday, so timing matters for when your benefits start.

That's scary. What triggered the investigation the second time?

Never got a clear answer. I think it was because I had some 1099 work between jobs, but I reported it correctly. They eventually approved everything but those 3 weeks were gone forever.

This is why keeping detailed records is so important. Screenshot everything, save all correspondence, document your job search activities daily.

What kind of documentation do they want exactly?

Company names, job titles, dates, method of contact, contact person if possible. I kept a spreadsheet with links to job postings, confirmation emails, business cards from networking events - everything.

I use the WorkSourceWA job search tracking tool. It's built into their system and Washington ESD can see it directly, so there's no question about your activities.

Oh no, I'm probably getting 2 weeks severance. Does that mean I can't file for 2 weeks?

It depends on how they pay it out. If it's paid as a lump sum, you might be able to file sooner. If it's paid over 2 weeks as regular wages, then yeah, you'd wait. Check with Washington ESD about your specific situation.

That's why the training programs are so valuable. If you can get into an approved program, you can extend benefits and actually improve your skills at the same time.

True, but those programs have limited spots and long waiting lists. Not really a solution for most people.

That's really helpful insider info. Any other tips for dealing with the system?

File online whenever possible, keep copies of everything, and be honest about your work search. The system flags inconsistencies and it's better to over-document than under-document.

Wish more people knew this stuff upfront. I made so many mistakes on my first claim that delayed everything. Would have saved weeks if I'd known the rules better.

Three times? That's rough. Was it always 26 weeks or did you find work sooner sometimes?

First time I found work after 12 weeks, second time I used all 26 weeks, third time I found work after 18 weeks. It really depends on the job market and your field.

Good perspective. I definitely don't want to be on unemployment longer than necessary, but it's good to know the safety net is there.

Exactly! I treated my unemployment period like a full-time job - 8 hours a day job searching, networking, skill building. Found work in 14 weeks that way.

That's reassuring to know there are other safety nets if needed. Hopefully I won't need them but good to keep in mind.

Yeah, things like food assistance, utility help, job training programs. The social workers at WorkSource offices are actually pretty knowledgeable about what's available locally.