How long can I collect unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Thanks! What exactly are the job search requirements? I know I need to look for work but is there a specific number of applications I need to submit each week?

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. This can include applications, networking, attending job fairs, or contacting employers directly. Keep detailed records because Washington ESD can audit your job search activities.

Got it, so basically I have 6 months to find something. That should be enough time hopefully.

Don't wait until the end to start seriously looking though. The job search requirement exists for a reason - they want you actively seeking employment from day one.

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks max? I was hoping it might be longer since I worked for 8 years at the same place.

Correct, 26 weeks is the maximum regardless of your work history length. Your work history affects your weekly benefit amount, not the duration.

Thanks! What exactly is a base period? I worked full time for about 8 months before getting laid off.

Your base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you filed your claim. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would be January 2024 through December 2024. With 8 months of full-time work, you should qualify for benefits.

Thanks! So it's 26 weeks total no matter what? I heard some people talking about extensions but wasn't sure if those still exist.

Yes, 26 weeks is the standard maximum. Extensions were available during the pandemic but those programs ended in 2021. Now it's back to the regular 26-week limit.

Good point. How many job searches do I need to do each week?

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

Really? How does that work exactly? I might need to call them too if I have questions.

It basically automates the calling process and gets you connected to a real person at Washington ESD. Way better than trying to call yourself.

Sounds sketchy to me. Why would you need a third party service to call a government agency?

Is that legit? I've been trying to call for a week about my adjudication issue and keep getting disconnected.

Yeah it's real, check out claimyr.com. They don't ask for any personal info, just help you get through to an actual person at Washington ESD. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

How do I know if there are extended benefits available? Does Washington ESD announce that?

They would notify claimants if extended benefits become available. It's not something you apply for separately - it just extends your existing claim automatically if you qualify.

COVID was a special situation with federal programs like PEUC and PUA that extended benefits. Those programs ended in 2021. Regular state unemployment is still 26 weeks maximum.

oh that makes sense. so no extra time anymore?

Correct, we're back to the standard 26 weeks unless the state unemployment rate triggers extended benefits, which is uncommon.

Your best bet is to look into training programs. If you enroll in an approved training program, you might qualify for extended benefits while you're in school.

How do I find out what training programs are approved? Do I ask Washington ESD or WorkSource?

Contact your local WorkSource office. They can tell you about approved training programs and help you apply for training benefits.

Thanks! I'll check my account again. I think I was looking in the wrong section.

The 26 weeks is the standard but some people run out earlier if they didn't work enough quarters or their base period earnings were low.

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks max? I worked full-time for 2 years so I should qualify for the full amount right?

Not necessarily the full 26 weeks. It depends on your total wages during the base period which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you filed.

Thanks! So 26 weeks is the maximum? What if I can't find work by then?

Yes, 26 weeks is the regular maximum. There are sometimes extended benefits during high unemployment periods, but those depend on economic conditions and federal programs. Focus on your job search requirements to maintain eligibility.

What exactly are the job search requirements? I keep seeing different information online.

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log. This includes applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking activities, etc. Washington ESD has a list of approved activities on their website.

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks maximum? That gives me a better timeline to work with for job searching.

Yes, 26 weeks is the standard maximum for regular UI benefits. Just remember you have to keep filing your weekly claims and meeting all the job search requirements.

Yeah I'm worried about that. What happens if I can't find a job before the 26 weeks runs out?

Unfortunately once regular UI benefits are exhausted, that's typically it unless there are federal extensions available which is rare outside of major economic downturns.

Wait really? So if my claim was pending for 2 weeks, I only get 24 weeks of actual payments?

No, you still get paid for those weeks if you were eligible and filed. But your benefit year is still 52 weeks total from your initial claim date. It's confusing but the 26 weeks refers to weeks you can collect, not calendar weeks.

Part-time work doesn't reduce your total weeks available, but it may reduce your weekly benefit amount depending on how much you earn. You still need to report all wages when you file your weekly claim.

ok good to know, thanks

Are we close to triggering EB right now? I thought unemployment was still pretty low in Washington.

As of now, no. The unemployment rate would need to hit specific thresholds and stay there for multiple months. It's not something you can count on.

If you can't prove your job search activities, they can make you pay back benefits for those weeks. It's called an overpayment. Keep detailed records of every application, contact, and interview.

Yikes. I better start keeping better records then. Can they audit you randomly or only if they suspect something?

I've been keeping track but it's confusing what counts as a job search activity. Do online applications count?

Yes, online applications definitely count. You can also include networking, job fairs, contacting employers directly, and working with WorkSourceWA.

How does that work exactly? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days about my claim status.

Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

Interesting, I might try that. The Washington ESD phone system is impossible to get through to.

This is so stressful! What counts as a job search activity?

Job applications, networking events, job fairs, informational interviews, and even some training activities count. You'll need to keep a log of all your activities in your WorkSourceWA account.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents without waiting on hold forever. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Really? How does that work exactly? I'm so tired of getting disconnected after waiting for hours.

Basically they handle all the calling and waiting for you, then connect you directly to an agent when one becomes available. Saved me so much time and stress when I needed to resolve an issue with my claim.

It resets! If you work and earn enough wages to qualify for a new claim, you get a fresh 26 weeks. The key is earning enough in covered employment to meet the earnings requirements for a new benefit year.

That's a relief. So if I find a job for even a few months, I could potentially qualify for benefits again if I get laid off?

Yes, as long as you earn enough wages during that time to meet Washington ESD's minimum earnings requirements for establishing a new claim.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr. I was in the same boat - couldn't get through no matter how many times I called. The service got me connected to an agent in like 20 minutes.

Is there a cost for using that service?

There is a fee but honestly worth it to actually talk to someone instead of wasting hours calling on your own.

Oh wow, I didn't know that. Good to know in case I find temporary work.

Yeah this caught me off guard when I had a seasonal job. Make sure you understand how partial benefits work too if you're doing part-time work while collecting.

What counts as job search activities? Just applying to jobs or other things too?

Job applications, networking events, career fairs, informational interviews, even updating your resume can count. Check the WorkSourceWA website for the full list of approved activities.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr.com - they actually got me through to a Washington ESD agent in like 20 minutes. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Worth checking out if you're tired of the phone runaround.

Interesting, I'll look into that. I'm desperate at this point.

Never heard of that service but honestly anything beats sitting on hold for 3 hours just to get disconnected.

Is that legitimate? I've never heard of services like that before.

Yes, it's legit. They just help you navigate the phone system to reach an actual person at Washington ESD. I was skeptical too but it worked when I needed to check on my claim status.

I've heard of Claimyr too. My coworker used it when her claim got stuck in adjudication. She said it was worth it to actually talk to someone instead of waiting weeks for a callback.

Never heard of that before. Is it legit? I don't want to get scammed while I'm already stressed about being unemployed.

Yeah it's legitimate. They just help you get through the phone queue instead of waiting on hold for hours. Saved me so much frustration when I needed answers about my claim.

How much do I need to earn to qualify for a new claim?

You need to earn at least 680 hours of work or the equivalent in wages during your new base period. Washington ESD will calculate this when you file a new claim.

Wait, really? That seems unfair if they take forever to process the claim.

I know it seems unfair, but that's how the system works. The benefit year is 52 weeks from your initial claim date, and you can collect up to 26 weeks within that year.

What happens if you miss a week? Can you go back and file it later?

You can request to reopen the week but you need a good reason and it's not guaranteed. Better to just set a reminder and file every Sunday. Don't risk it.

Really? So if I find temporary work for a few weeks, I don't lose my remaining benefits?

Exactly. As long as you're still within your benefit year and have weeks remaining, you can go back on unemployment after temporary work ends.

OMG yes the phone system is the worst! I tried calling 47 times in one day and never got through.

I actually found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. It's been a lifesaver for me when I needed to resolve issues with my claim.

Really? That sounds too good to be true. How does it actually work?

This is confusing. How do I know what my base period is exactly?

Your base period is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you filed your claim. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would likely be October 2023 through September 2024.

wait that seems like old information? wouldn't it be more recent than that

Did you find work before your benefits ran out? I'm hoping 26 weeks will be enough time but with this job market...

I found something in week 24, so cutting it close! The key is to treat job searching like a full-time job itself. Don't get too comfortable with the benefits.

There are other programs you might qualify for like SNAP benefits or temporary assistance, but those have different eligibility requirements. You should also look into WorkSourceWA for job training programs.

I've never had to apply for government assistance before this. It's overwhelming trying to figure out all these different programs.

If you worked temporarily during your benefit year, you might still have weeks left on your original claim. Contact Washington ESD to reopen your claim - don't file a new one unless they tell you to.

thanks ill try calling but good luck getting through to them lol

Same 26 weeks for seasonal workers, but your benefit amount might be different based on your seasonal earnings pattern. Construction workers often qualify for standby status in some cases too.

standby status? what's that?

Standby is when you're temporarily laid off but expect to return to the same employer within a specific timeframe. Different job search requirements but still the same benefit duration.

Yes, your benefit year is 52 weeks from the date you first filed your claim. You have that full year to use up your 26 weeks of benefits, whether consecutively or intermittently.

Good to know. So even if I only collect for 10 weeks this year, I can't save the remaining 16 weeks for next year?

Correct. Any unused weeks expire when your benefit year ends. You'd need to file a new claim based on more recent earnings.

No, the dollar amount and week count are separate limits. You're limited by whichever runs out first - either 26 weeks OR your total dollar amount. Sounds like you'll hit the 26 week limit before exhausting the dollar amount.

So I definitely only have 11 more weeks maximum, even though I have money left in my account?

That's correct. The 26-week maximum applies regardless of your remaining dollar balance.

Are there any extensions available right now? I'm worried 26 weeks might not be enough to find something good.

As of now, no extended benefits are available. The pandemic-era extensions ended a while back. Stick to the standard 26 weeks and use that time wisely for job searching.

The job market's actually pretty decent right now compared to a few years ago, so 26 weeks should be doable if you're actively looking.

How do they calculate the weekly amount exactly? My benefit seems lower than what I expected based on my salary.

Washington ESD takes your highest quarter of earnings from your base period, divides by 26, then calculates about 45-50% of that amount for your weekly benefit. There's also a maximum weekly benefit amount that changes each year.

You might still qualify depending on your wages. Washington ESD looks at your total wages during your base period, not just how long you worked. If you earned at least $1,968 in your base period, you could qualify for benefits.

ok cool i think i made more than that. do i apply online or what?

Where do I find this calculator? I want to see what I might qualify for.

It's on the main Washington ESD website under 'Estimate Your Benefits' or something like that. Just have your wage information ready.

Yes, you can work part-time while collecting unemployment in Washington. You just need to report all your earnings when you file your weekly claim. They'll reduce your benefits based on how much you earn, but you might still receive partial unemployment.

That's a relief! I was worried I'd lose everything if I took a small part-time job.

What's a waiting week? Nobody told me about that when I filed.

The waiting week is the first week of your claim where you're eligible but don't receive payment. It's like a one-week deductible for unemployment benefits.

Did you have to go to WorkSourceWA in person or can you do stuff online?

Both options are available. I did mostly online workshops and used their job search tools, but you can also visit in person for more personalized help.

The WorkSource workshops can be helpful and they count toward your job search requirements. Many people find networking events there more valuable than the basic resume workshops.

I went to a few WorkSource events. The industry-specific job fairs were better than the general ones. Also check if your local community college has any free career training programs.

Yeah those pandemic programs like PUA and PEUC are long gone. Don't count on any extensions unless there's another major economic crisis.

Good to know, I won't plan on any extensions then. Better to find work as quickly as possible.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. The regular phone system is basically unusable with how overloaded it is.

try calling right at 8am when they open, sometimes you can get through then

I've tried that multiple times. Still get the busy signal or disconnected.

I feel you on the phone situation. That's actually why services like Claimyr exist - they cut through all the hold times and busy signals.

never heard of that but at this point I'll try anything to get answers about my claim

Your benefits just stop. There's no automatic extension unless there are special federal programs or you qualify for training benefits. Start looking into other assistance programs if you're getting close.

What kind of other assistance programs?

SNAP (food stamps), housing assistance, utility help through LIHEAP. Contact DSHS or 211 for information about what's available in your area.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs?

Job applications, networking events, career fairs, WorkSource appointments, skills training - there's a list on the Washington ESD website. Make sure you document everything properly.

They actually audit these job search logs sometimes, so don't just make stuff up. I know someone who got in trouble for fake entries.

Working part-time doesn't extend your benefit year, but it might reduce your weekly benefit amount depending on how much you earn. You still need to report all wages when you file your weekly claim.

That's confusing. So I could potentially use up my 26 weeks faster if I'm working part-time?

No, each week you file a claim counts as one of your 26 weeks, regardless of whether you worked or not. But if you earn too much in a week, you might not receive any benefits for that week.

Extended benefits are only available when unemployment rates are high enough to trigger them. Right now, I don't think Washington qualifies for extended benefits. You might want to look into other assistance programs or retraining opportunities through WorkSource.

Ugh that's what I was afraid of. This job market is brutal right now.

Unfortunately, there aren't any extension programs available right now beyond the standard 26 weeks. Your best bet is to intensify your job search and consider expanding your search criteria or looking into retraining programs.

What about retraining programs? Do those provide any additional benefits?

Washington state has the Worker Retraining Program that can provide additional benefits while you're in approved training. You'd need to contact WorkSource to see if you qualify.

The pandemic programs ended in 2021. Now it's back to the regular 26 weeks maximum. Extended benefits can kick in during severe economic downturns, but they're temporary federal programs and not currently available.

Extended benefits are triggered by state unemployment rates, but Washington hasn't qualified for them since the pandemic programs ended. Don't plan on extensions being available.

Good advice. I'm definitely starting my search right away. Any tips for keeping track of the job search requirements?

I kept a simple spreadsheet with dates, company names, positions, and how I applied. Washington ESD can audit your job search activities so having good records is important.

That sounds helpful! Is it easy to find on their website?

It should be under the 'Before You Apply' section. Just remember it's only an estimate - your actual benefits might be different.

Yeah I'm getting about $550 per week which helps but it's definitely less than my regular paycheck.

That's a decent amount. Remember that unemployment benefits are taxable income, so you might want to set aside some money for taxes or choose to have taxes withheld.

That's a good reality check. I probably need to adjust my expectations about what jobs I'm willing to take.

Same here. I was holding out for something in my exact field but now I'm looking at anything that pays decently. Bills don't care about your dream job.

You can work part-time and still collect partial unemployment benefits. Your weekly benefit amount gets reduced based on your earnings, but it doesn't reset your 26-week limit. You still need to file weekly claims.

The part-time work can actually help you in the long run because you're earning wages that could qualify you for a new claim later if needed.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. I was spending entire days trying to get through to someone. Worth checking out if you need to actually speak with an agent.

I might have to try that. I can't afford to spend all day on hold when I should be job searching.

Wow, cutting it close! I'm definitely going to treat this seriously from the start.

Yeah she got lucky. Her advice was to apply to everything you're qualified for, not just the jobs you really want.

There's no waiting period, but you need to have earned enough wages in covered employment to establish a new claim. You can't just file again immediately after your benefits end.

Right, you need to work and earn wages first. The amount depends on your new base period earnings. It's not just about time passing.

Good reminder. I've been setting a Sunday reminder on my phone to file each week.

Smart move. I missed one week early on and it was a hassle trying to get it sorted out.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash.

It was worth every penny considering I was about to lose weeks of benefits. Plus the time I saved not sitting on hold for hours every day was huge.

Glad that worked for you! I might have to try it too. I've been trying to get clarification on my job search requirements for weeks.

Definitely worth it if you need to talk to someone quickly. Much better than the endless busy signals and getting hung up on.

You can potentially file a new claim if you've worked enough to establish a new base period with sufficient wages. But there are specific requirements about how much you need to have earned.

How much do you need to earn to qualify for a new claim?

Generally you need to have earned at least six times your weekly benefit amount in wages after your last claim began. It's complicated, so you'd want to check with Washington ESD directly.

You can potentially qualify for a new claim if you've worked enough hours and earned enough wages since your last claim. It's based on your base period earnings, not just time elapsed.

That's good to know, thanks for the clarification

How long did it take them to get you connected?

About 30 minutes. Way better than doing it myself. They handle all the waiting and transfers.

You're generally expected to apply for suitable work, which takes into account your skills, experience, and previous wage level. However, as time goes on, the definition of 'suitable work' can become broader. You should focus on jobs that match your qualifications initially.

I was told by Washington ESD that after a certain number of weeks, I'd need to consider jobs that pay less than my previous position. It's frustrating but that's how it works.

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits. Washington ESD has a formula where they reduce your benefits based on how much you earn, but you might still qualify for some payment.

Make sure you report any work and earnings on your weekly claim. Being honest about part-time work won't hurt your eligibility as long as you're still looking for full-time employment.

Did you find work both times before benefits ran out?

First time yes, second time I had to take a job that paid less than I wanted just to avoid running out completely. Sometimes you have to be flexible.

I understand the frustration, but Washington ESD does require you to accept suitable work. What they consider 'suitable' depends on your skills, experience, and how long you've been unemployed.

Yeah well 'suitable work' apparently means anything that pays more than your weekly benefit amount according to them. It's ridiculous.

That's not entirely accurate. There are protections for the first few weeks where you can be more selective about job offers.

Yes, they do audit job search activities. If you're selected for an audit and can't provide adequate documentation, you could be disqualified and have to pay back benefits.

I got audited in week 18. Had to provide detailed records of all my job search activities. Thank goodness I kept good notes. Don't skip this part!

Training benefits are available in some cases, but they don't extend your regular 26-week limit. You need approval from Washington ESD before starting training, and it has to be for skills in demand in your area.

The training has to be approved BEFORE you start it. You can't just enroll in any program and expect extended benefits. Contact WorkSource to discuss approved training options.

That's a relief. My approval took about 2 weeks so I was worried I'd lost time.

Yeah the benefit year is a full 52 weeks from when you file, and within that year you can collect up to 26 weeks of benefits if you qualify.

Each state sets their own unemployment benefit duration and amounts. Some states offer more weeks, some offer fewer. Washington's standard is 26 weeks, which is actually pretty typical.

That seems unfair that it varies so much by state.

What happens if you find work after using up all 26 weeks but then get laid off again within the same benefit year?

You'd have to wait until your benefit year ends to file a new claim, unless you've earned enough wages to qualify for a new claim with a new base period.

This is so true. I lost 3 weeks due to an adjudication issue that took forever to resolve.

Exactly why it's important to stay on top of all requirements and resolve any issues immediately. Don't let small problems become big ones.

This is getting complicated. So I could potentially get less than 26 weeks if something weird happens with my employment?

Only if you return to work and then get laid off again within the same benefit year. For a straightforward layoff like yours, you'll get the full 26 weeks as long as you meet all requirements.

Yeah COVID was a special situation with PEUC, PUA, and other programs. That's all over now though.

Good advice. I've been pretty picky so far but maybe I need to broaden my search.

Exactly. Week 20+ is not the time to be picky about salary or commute distance.

If you work during a week, you report those earnings on your weekly claim. Depending on how much you earn, your benefit might be reduced or eliminated for that week. But if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5, you'll still get a partial payment.

So I could potentially get benefits for part of a week even if I start working?

Yes, if your earnings for that week are low enough. Washington ESD has a formula for calculating partial benefits.

That's what I'm worried about. I've been taking my time but maybe I need to step it up.

Definitely step it up. Also consider temp work or part-time jobs to bridge the gap while you're still looking for something better.

The information is there but it's not organized very well. The Handbook for Unemployment Insurance Benefits has all the details but it's like 50 pages long.

Yeah I found that eventually. Way too much information to sort through when you just want a simple answer.

Thanks everyone for all the information. Sounds like I need to get more serious about my job search and not assume I have unlimited time.

Exactly. 26 weeks can feel like a lot at first but it goes quickly. Good luck with your search!

Good point. Are there specific programs for people whose unemployment is running out?

DSHS has various assistance programs, and many counties have emergency assistance programs. Also look into WorkSource for job training and placement services.

Great reminder. I kept my job search log going even after benefits ended and it helped when applying for other programs.

That's reassuring. I just want to make sure I understand all the rules so I can plan properly.

Smart approach. Knowing the rules helps you make better decisions about job offers and your search strategy.

Good point, I should probably set up tax withholding. How do you do that?

You can change it in your online account or call Washington ESD. I'd recommend having 10% withheld to be safe.

That's unfortunately true. I was out for 5 months and kept getting asked about the gap in interviews.

Exactly. The benefits are there to help but don't let yourself get too comfortable. Keep networking and applying consistently.

Perfect, that's exactly what I needed to know. Thanks everyone for all the helpful information!

Good luck with your job search! The market is pretty good right now so hopefully you won't need all 26 weeks.

Have you looked into any extended benefits or training programs? Sometimes there are additional options available depending on the unemployment rate.

I haven't looked into training programs yet. Are those through WorkSourceWA?

Yes, WorkSourceWA has various training programs and some can extend your benefits while you're in approved training.

You can only file a new claim if you've worked and earned enough wages since your last claim. Otherwise, you'd need to wait until your benefit year expires and establish a new claim with sufficient work history.

That makes sense. So basically you need to find some work to become eligible again.

What happens if you miss filing a weekly claim? Can you backdate it?

You can sometimes backdate claims if you have a good cause for the delay, but it's much easier to just file on time every week. Set a reminder on your phone.

Was it worth it? I'm desperate to talk to someone about my claim status.

Definitely worth it for me. Much better than the endless busy signals and disconnected calls I was getting before.

I didn't know there was an app! That would be so much more convenient.

Yeah it's pretty basic but works well for filing claims and checking your payment status.

Good point. I'll plan on 26 weeks being the limit and hopefully find something before then.

I'll check that out. Having exact numbers would definitely help with budgeting.