How long can you use unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks maximum? I was hoping it might be longer since I'm having trouble finding work in my field.

Yes, 26 weeks is the standard maximum for regular UI benefits. There used to be extended benefits during high unemployment periods, but those aren't available right now.

Good idea, I'll check my account. I think I remember seeing something about benefit year dates but didn't pay close attention.

The benefit year runs for 52 weeks from when you first filed, but you can only collect benefits for up to 26 of those weeks (assuming you remain eligible).

Interesting, I've been trying to call ESD for days but keep getting disconnected. How does Claimyr work exactly?

Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent becomes available. Saved me hours of frustration trying to get through the busy signals.

I was skeptical about services like this but honestly the Washington ESD phone system is so overloaded that sometimes you need help just to get through.

Yes, I've been filing every week and keeping track of my job search activities. The 3 job contacts per week requirement is pretty manageable.

Wait, is it 3 job contacts per week? I thought it was 2. Now I'm worried I haven't been doing enough.

It's 3 job search activities per week, which can include job applications, networking, attending job fairs, etc. Make sure you're logging them properly in WorkSourceWA.

That's good to know. My claim took about 3 weeks to get approved due to some adjudication issue, so I was worried I lost those weeks.

Adjudication delays are so frustrating! Mine took forever too because they needed to verify my reason for separation.

I've been considering taking some part-time work. Do you know how much you can earn before it affects your benefits?

You can earn up to your weekly benefit amount plus $5 before your benefits start getting reduced. Anything over that gets deducted dollar for dollar from your weekly benefit.

Just make sure you report any earnings on your weekly claim, even if it's just a few dollars. Failure to report can result in an overpayment that you'll have to pay back.

Unfortunately, there aren't currently any extended unemployment programs available. The federal extensions that were available during COVID have ended.

That's what I was afraid of. Guess I need to expand my job search even more.

You might want to look into other assistance programs like SNAP or housing assistance if you haven't already. Won't replace unemployment but can help with basic needs.

You'd need to establish a new benefit year, which requires earning sufficient wages in your new base period. It's not automatic - you'd have to requalify based on your recent work history.

Good to know. So it's not just automatic that you get another 26 weeks. You actually have to have worked enough to qualify again.

Exactly. The base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. You need minimum earnings in that period to qualify for a new claim.

I'm not on standby - I was permanently laid off. But that's interesting that standby has different rules.

Yeah, standby is for temporary layoffs where you expect to return to the same employer. Regular UI is for permanent separations. Different requirements and processes.

I'm definitely going to try Claimyr. I have so many questions about my specific situation and the website doesn't have all the answers.

Same here - the automated system doesn't handle complex questions well. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person.

No, waiting periods don't count toward your 26 weeks of benefits. You get 26 weeks of actual benefit payments, not including any waiting periods or weeks you're disqualified.

Perfect, that's what I hoped. Thanks for clarifying!

Absolutely. I'm at 18 weeks and starting to panic. Been applying everywhere but getting very few responses.

I feel you both. I'm at 22 weeks and seriously considering taking any job just to have income, even if it's way below what I was making before.

That's exactly what I'm thinking. Pride doesn't pay the bills, right? Maybe I need to be less picky about positions.

That's encouraging to hear. I'm trying to stay optimistic but it's getting harder as the weeks go by.

I understand completely. The stress of that countdown is real. Just keep applying and don't give up - something will come through.

Good reminder. I've been using the WorkSourceWA system to track everything. Is that sufficient or should I keep separate records too?

WorkSourceWA is the official system, but I'd recommend keeping your own backup records too. Screenshots, emails, application confirmations - anything that proves you were actively searching.

This is so important! I know someone who had to pay back thousands because they couldn't prove their job search activities when audited.

Thanks for the recommendation. I'm convinced I need to try it - the regular phone system is just impossible.

Agreed, the Washington ESD phone system is beyond frustrating. Anything that helps people actually get through to agents is valuable.

Perfect summary, thank you! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more informed about my situation now.

This is why I love this forum - so much helpful information from people who've been through it.