How long can someone get Washington ESD unemployment benefits - confused about duration limits

Thanks! So it doesn't matter if I worked 3 years vs 1 year - everyone gets the same 26 weeks?

Correct, the duration is the same. Your work history affects your weekly benefit amount and whether you qualify, but not how long you can collect.

Same experience here! The phone system is brutal. Have you tried using Claimyr? It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents without the endless hold times. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

Never heard of that but definitely checking it out. I wasted so many lunch breaks trying to call Washington ESD.

So no chance of getting more than 26 weeks right now?

Not through regular channels. You'd need to find work or look into other assistance programs after your benefits exhaust.

Yes, you can collect partial benefits if your hours are reduced. You still have the same 26-week benefit year, but since you're earning some wages, your benefits might last longer in terms of calendar time.

ok that makes sense, so the 26 weeks is like a bank of weeks you can use whether full or partial

After regular UI exhausts, you'd need to look into other programs like SNAP, temporary assistance, or job training programs. Washington ESD also has WorkSource offices that provide job search assistance.

That's terrifying. 26 weeks seems like nothing when you think about finding a good job, not just any job.

It's designed as temporary assistance, not long-term support. The idea is to give you time to find comparable work while maintaining your skills.

How many job searches do you have to do per week?

It's usually 3 job search activities per week, but check your specific requirements when you file. They're pretty strict about documentation.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true.

Totally legit. They just call the Washington ESD number for you and connect you when they get through. Saved me so much frustration.

Good advice. I was thinking I had time to be picky but maybe I should start applying right away.

Exactly. You can always turn down offers that aren't suitable, but having options is better than scrambling at week 24.

You'd need to meet the earnings requirements for a new benefit year. If you worked enough quarters and earned enough wages, you could potentially file a new claim.

how much do you need to earn for a new claim?

You need wages in at least two quarters of your base period and total wages of at least 680 times your weekly benefit amount. It's complicated - check with Washington ESD.

I understand the anxiety, but focus on what you can control. Use the 26 weeks wisely - network, improve skills, apply broadly. Many people find work within that timeframe.

Also make sure you can actually get through to Washington ESD if you have questions about your claim. I wasted weeks trying to call before finding Claimyr to help me connect.

That doesn't seem fair. What if they take forever to process it?

It's based on your benefit year dates, not processing time. But if there are delays due to Washington ESD errors, you might have grounds to request an extension of your benefit year.

There are some training programs that can extend benefits, but they're limited and you have to be approved before your regular benefits exhaust. Check with WorkSource about approved training programs.

Thanks, I'll look into that. Every extra week helps when you're job searching.

You're right. I need to start treating this like a 6-month sprint, not a marathon.