How long can you apply for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Oh no, so I can't get backpay for those 6 weeks? That's a lot of money I've lost.

Unfortunately no, Washington ESD doesn't pay retroactively. The earliest you can get benefits is the week you actually file your claim.

26 weeks sounds right. What exactly are the job search requirements? I haven't been keeping track of my applications.

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

Never heard of Claimyr. Is it legit? I'm nervous about giving my info to third parties.

Yeah it's legitimate. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. They basically just help you get through the phone queue to talk to Washington ESD directly.

Interesting, might have to check that out. I spent 4 hours on hold yesterday and got disconnected.

My situation is pretty straightforward - just got laid off from one job. So 26 weeks should apply to me?

Yes, as long as you meet the base period earnings requirements and file your weekly claims on time.

I know right! I keep getting lost in all the different sections and forms.

The SecureAccess Washington (SAW) portal is the main entry point. Start there and follow the unemployment application link.

What's adjudication? Should I be worried about that?

It just means they're reviewing your claim to make sure you qualify. Pretty common, especially if there are any questions about why you left your job.

Adjudication can happen for various reasons - job separation issues, wage discrepancies, or if your employer contests the claim.

I'm definitely frustrated about losing those 6 weeks of benefits. That's like $2000+ I'll never get back.

I understand the frustration, but the system is designed to provide benefits for active claimants, not retroactive payments. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits.

How much did you end up losing by waiting?

probably around $3500 in benefits i could have gotten. still kicks myself about it

WorkSource Washington? Is that different from the regular Washington ESD website?

Yes, it's the state's job search portal. You'll need to register there and use it to document your job search activities.

The WorkSource registration is required within a certain timeframe after filing your claim. Don't skip this step or your benefits could be delayed.

What happens if you miss filing one week? Do you lose all your benefits?

You don't lose everything, but you might have to contact Washington ESD to reopen your claim. It's a hassle you want to avoid.

How do they calculate the base period? Is it just your last year of work?

It's usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file in January 2025, they'd look at your earnings from January 2024 through September 2024.

That does sound helpful. I'm definitely going to need to talk to someone once I file since I have questions about my situation.

I used them too when my claim went into adjudication. Much faster than trying to get through on your own.

Good to know. I was thinking about visiting family for a week next month.

You can still travel, but you need to be honest about your availability on your weekly claim. They might not pay you for that week if you weren't available for work.

You're right, I need to stop procrastinating. Going to file as soon as I finish reading these responses.

Good! And remember to file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still being processed.

I did some freelance work last week. Do I need to report that even if it was just a small amount?

Yes, report ALL income no matter how small. It's better to be honest upfront than deal with overpayment issues later.

This is crucial advice. Overpayment notices can result in penalties and you'll have to pay back benefits with interest.

I can imagine. I'm already stressed just thinking about filing.

it gets easier once you get into the routine. just don't put it off like i did

How long do you have to appeal if you get denied?

I believe it's 30 days from the date of the determination letter. Don't wait on that deadline either.

Good point. I'll start a folder to keep track of everything once I file.

Smart move. Organization will save you headaches later if any issues come up.

Good luck! Remember to file your weekly claims every week and keep up with the job search requirements.

If you run into any issues getting through to Washington ESD, definitely check out Claimyr. Made the whole process much smoother for me.

You're making the right choice. Better late than never, and you'll still get 26 weeks of benefits if you qualify.