How long can you get paid unemployment benefits through Washington ESD?

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks max? I worked pretty consistently for the past 2 years so I should qualify for the full amount right?

Yes, 26 weeks is the standard maximum for regular UI benefits. Since you worked for 2 years consistently, you should qualify for close to the full duration, but Washington ESD calculates it based on your specific wage history during the base period.

Good point about the job search requirements. I've been applying to places already but didn't know about the log requirement. Where do I track that?

You can use the WorkSourceWA website to track your job search activities. Washington ESD requires detailed records of your job contacts, so definitely keep track from day one.

So no extensions are available right now? I was hoping there might be some extra time available like during the pandemic.

Correct, the pandemic-era extensions like PEUC ended in 2021. Right now it's just the standard 26 weeks of regular UI benefits. Extensions only kick in when unemployment rates hit specific thresholds.

That sounds helpful! I've been dreading having to call Washington ESD if I run into issues. How does that service work exactly?

Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Much better than sitting on hold for hours yourself.

Never heard of that but honestly anything is better than trying to get through to Washington ESD directly. Their phone system is a nightmare.

Working part-time can affect your weekly benefit amount, but it doesn't necessarily reduce the total number of weeks you're eligible for. Washington ESD has specific rules about reporting part-time work on your weekly claims.

ok good because I might pick up some gig work while job hunting and didn't want to lose my benefits entirely

As long as you're filing your weekly claims on time, meeting job search requirements, and reporting any work or income accurately, you should be fine. The key is consistency and honesty in your reporting.

That's reassuring. I've been paranoid about every little detail. Thanks for the peace of mind.

What other programs did you look into? I want to have a backup plan in case I can't find work within 26 weeks.

SNAP benefits, local food banks, and some utility assistance programs through DSHS. Also looked into workforce development programs that offer training while you're job searching.

Perfect summary, thank you! This gives me a clear timeline to work with. I feel much better about planning my job search now.

Good advice! I'm already applying to places but I'll definitely ramp up my efforts. Better to find something sooner rather than later.

Agreed. I found my current job on week 18 and it was cutting it close. The pressure really builds up as you get closer to exhausting benefits.

You can potentially qualify for a new benefit year if you've worked enough to establish a new base period. There's no waiting period per se, but you need sufficient work history to qualify for new benefits.

That makes sense. So basically as long as I work enough to build up new qualifying wages, I could potentially get another 26 weeks if needed.

Yeah I remember hearing about all the extra benefits during COVID but figured those were over. Thanks for confirming that it's back to the standard system.

Can you explain that more? I'm not sure I understand the difference between the benefit year and the 26 weeks of payments.

Sure! Your benefit year is the 12-month period during which you can claim benefits. Within that year, you're eligible for up to 26 weeks of payments. So if you find work after 10 weeks and then get laid off again within that same benefit year, you'd still have 16 weeks of benefits remaining.

I'm definitely going to look into that service. I've been putting off calling Washington ESD because I know it's going to be a whole ordeal.

It's honestly a game changer for dealing with Washington ESD. Check out their demo video to see how it works - makes the whole process much less stressful.

Military service can qualify you for benefits through the UCX program, but it depends on your specific circumstances. You should definitely mention your military service when filing your claim with Washington ESD.

Thanks! I'll make sure to include that information when I file. Didn't want to miss out on any benefits I'm entitled to.

That's exactly what I'm worried about. How are you handling the stress of getting close to the end?

Honestly, just trying to stay focused and apply to everything that's even remotely suitable. Also looking into temporary work to bridge the gap if needed.

Hang in there! I found my job on week 24. Sometimes it comes together at the last minute. Don't give up!

That's a helpful way to think about it. I should calculate my total potential benefits so I can budget for the full period.

Washington follows federal guidelines for extended benefits. Extensions typically only happen when the state unemployment rate reaches certain thresholds, and we're not at those levels currently.

Got it. So basically 26 weeks is what I should plan for and not count on any extensions right now.

You're absolutely right. I'm trying to view this as a focused job search period rather than just collecting benefits. Thanks for the perspective.

That's actually what I'm considering now. Better to have some income than none while continuing to look for the right opportunity.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I feel much more prepared now to make the most of my benefit period.

This thread has been really informative. Good to know what to expect going into the unemployment process.