How long can you get Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

Thanks! What exactly is the base period? Is that just the last year I worked?

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

3 jobs per week? That seems like a lot. Is that really required?

Yes, it's 3 job search activities per week. Can be applications, networking events, or interviews. You log them in your WorkSource account.

How does that work exactly? Do they call for you or something?

They help you get through the phone queue so you can talk to a real Washington ESD representative. Much better than calling 200+ times like I was doing before.

Different states have different rules. Washington is up to 26 weeks for regular UI. Some states are shorter, some have extensions during high unemployment periods.

Oh that makes sense. Good thing I'm in Washington then!

How do I find out exactly how many weeks I qualify for?

It should show on your determination letter when you get approved, or you can check your account on the Washington ESD website.

Are there any extensions available right now in 2025?

Not that I'm aware of. The pandemic extensions ended a while ago. Just the regular 26 weeks for most people now.

That's good to know. So if I find a job after 2 months but get laid off again 6 months later, I could still use my remaining weeks?

Potentially yes, but there are rules about how much you need to earn to reopen a claim. You'd need to contact Washington ESD to see if you qualify.

Oh no! Can you really not go back and claim missed weeks?

You have a limited time to file late claims, like a week or two I think. After that, those weeks are gone for good.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr to get through to someone. Waiting weeks for callbacks that never come is ridiculous. At least with their service I could talk to an actual person and get answers.

I might have to try that. This waiting game is killing me financially.

I don't have a pension, but what about if I do some freelance work while collecting?

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits, but you have to report all earnings on your weekly claims. There's a formula they use to calculate how much it reduces your benefits.

Good advice. I'm already starting to look, just wanted to know my timeline.

That's true. I want to find something in my field if possible, not just any job.

Just make sure you're still applying to suitable work while you look for your ideal job. Washington ESD has rules about turning down suitable offers.

I was laid off due to downsizing, so I should be okay there.

Yes, layoffs due to lack of work typically qualify for full benefits assuming you meet the wage and hour requirements.

That makes sense. I'm planning to spend at least 6 hours a day on job searching and applications.

Washington eliminated the waiting week a few years ago. So if you qualify for 26 weeks, you get paid for all 26 weeks.

Oh good! I was worried about missing that first week of pay.

Can you explain that more? I'm not sure I understand the difference.

Your weekly benefit amount is what you get each week. Your total benefit amount is the maximum you can collect during your benefit year. Divide total by weekly to get your maximum weeks.

I had the exact same problem until someone recommended Claimyr. They basically get you through to a real person at Washington ESD without spending hours on hold. Check out their demo video if you want to see how it works.

At this point I'm willing to try anything. The automated system is useless for specific questions.

That's interesting. What kind of training programs qualify?

Usually things like trade skills, certification programs, or retraining for new careers. You'd need to work with a WorkSource counselor to see what's available.

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

Good point. I'll make sure to keep detailed records of everything.

Exactly. Better to over-document than get hit with an overpayment demand later because you couldn't prove your job search activities.