How long can someone stay on unemployment - Washington ESD benefit duration limits?

Thanks for clarifying! So it's not automatic that everyone gets the full 26 weeks? How do they calculate the exact number of weeks you're eligible for?

Right, it's based on your quarterly earnings during the base period. Washington ESD uses a formula that divides your total base period wages by your weekly benefit amount to determine your maximum weeks, capped at 26.

Yeah I'm keeping up with my job search log. How many job contacts do you need to report each week?

it's 3 job search activities per week minimum. can be applications, networking, interviews, etc. just document everything

So if unemployment gets really bad again, they could add more weeks beyond the 26?

Potentially yes, but it depends on both state and federal unemployment rates meeting specific criteria. It's not something you can count on.

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work or is it just another scam?

It's legit - they basically auto-dial and wait in queue for you, then connect you when an agent picks up. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

Good reminder! What day of the week do you usually file? I've been doing mine on Sundays.

Sunday is perfect, that's when I do mine too. You can file starting Sunday for the previous week. Just don't wait until the last minute!

What counts as 'suitable work'? I'm hoping I don't have to take just any minimum wage job.

Generally it's work that's similar to your previous job in terms of skill level and pay, but the standards can change over time. Early in your claim, you have more flexibility to be selective.

That's helpful to know! I might look into some part-time or freelance work to supplement.

Just make sure to report all earnings on your weekly claim. They'll calculate if you're still eligible for partial benefits.

This is such good advice. I made the mistake of being too picky early on and then scrambling toward the end of my benefits.

exactly! the job market can be unpredictable and you don't want to be desperate in your last few weeks of benefits

Are those programs free? I might want to look into some skills training while I'm job searching.

Most of the basic services are free, and some training programs are covered. Definitely worth checking out their website or visiting a local office.

The weeks count from when you're eligible to receive benefits, not from when you initially filed. So if you had a 3-week adjudication delay, those weeks don't count against your 26-week maximum.

That's a relief! I was worried those adjudication weeks were eating into my benefit time.

How much does something like that cost? Is it worth it or should I just keep trying to call myself?

I thought it was worth it to avoid the stress of constant calling. Check out their demo video to see if it would help your situation.

Good point! I filed right away when I got laid off. Glad I didn't wait thinking there was a waiting period.

You should be able to see your remaining balance in your account. It shows both your dollar amount remaining and estimated weeks left based on your current weekly benefit amount.

Maybe I'm looking in the wrong place. I'll check again or try calling to ask someone.

If you can't get through by calling normally, that's another situation where Claimyr might help - they can get you connected to someone who can explain your account details.

That sounds interesting! Do you know what kind of training programs qualify?

It has to be approved training that's likely to help you get a job. Usually vocational or technical training programs.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! This gives me a much better understanding of what to expect.

Good luck with your job search! The market is tough right now but stay persistent.

That's good to know! So if I find a job after 10 weeks on unemployment, I could potentially use the remaining 16 weeks if I get laid off again soon?

Exactly, as long as it's within your benefit year (which is usually 52 weeks from when you first filed). But you'd need to meet the eligibility requirements again.