How long can you do unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

Thanks! So I still have about 18 weeks left potentially? That's a relief.

Just remember you still have to meet all the requirements each week - job search, able and available, all that stuff.

How many job searches do you have to do per week? I've been doing 3 but wasn't sure if that was enough.

It's 3 job search activities per week for most people, but some folks might have different requirements depending on their situation.

Oh wow, I didn't know that! So even if I work a few hours and only get like $50 in benefits that week, it still counts as one of my 26 weeks?

Exactly. Any week you file a claim counts toward your maximum, regardless of the benefit amount.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to ESD agents - they handle the calling and waiting for you. Check out claimyr.com, they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me hours of frustration.

That sounds too good to be true, how much does it cost?

It's worth checking out their site for details, but honestly after spending weeks trying to get through myself, having someone else handle the calling was a lifesaver.

I mean, I get that there have to be some requirements, but it does feel pretty overwhelming sometimes.

The requirements aren't that bad once you get into a routine with them. Just treat it like a part-time job.

How would I know if extended benefits are available? Does Washington ESD notify you automatically?

They usually announce it on their website and send notifications through your eServices account if extended benefits become available.

So if I'm still unemployed when my benefit year ends in March, I need to file a completely new claim?

Yes, you'd need to file a new initial claim, but you'd also need to have earned enough wages during your benefit year to qualify for a new claim.

Since I've been unemployed most of this year, I probably won't have enough earnings for a new claim anyway.

That's why it's important to use your current benefit year effectively and really focus on your job search.

That's awesome! I might try that if I run into issues. It's good to know there's actually a way to reach them.

Shouldn't have to pay someone else just to talk to a government agency we're already paying for with our taxes, but whatever works I guess.

I'm not on standby, just regular unemployment after being laid off. But good to know there are different types.

Yeah, standby is for temporary layoffs where you expect to be called back. Regular UI is what you're on.

I've heard you can't be too picky about jobs, but what if it pays way less than my previous job?

There are rules about 'suitable work' that take into account your skills and previous wages, but generally the longer you're on UI, the broader the definition of suitable work becomes.

Good point. I've been keeping a spreadsheet but maybe I should be more detailed about it.

The WorkSourceWA website has tools for tracking job searches that work pretty well for this.

Exactly! Use the time wisely and don't forget about resources like WorkSource for job training or career counseling if you need to pivot to a different field.

And if you do need to contact ESD about anything else, seriously consider using Claimyr. Saved me so much time and stress.

Definitely not planning to coast! I've been applying to jobs consistently, just wanted to understand my timeline better.

Thanks! Fingers crossed. At least now I know I'm not about to run out of benefits next week like I was worried about.