How long do I have to be employed to qualify for Washington ESD unemployment?

So if I file in March 2025, they'd look at wages from October 2023 through September 2024?

Exactly right. And you need at least $4,128 in total wages during that base period plus wages in at least 2 quarters.

That's not quite right. Washington ESD uses wage requirements, not hour requirements. You need minimum wages earned during your base period, not a specific number of hours worked.

oh ok thanks for the correction

How much does something like that cost? I'm already worried about money if I get laid off.

It was worth it for me to avoid the phone hassles. Way easier than trying to get through during their busy hours.

That's helpful to know the part-time work counts. I was worried it might not be enough.

Just make sure you have all your wage records ready when you apply. Washington ESD can see your reported wages but having your own records helps if there are any discrepancies.

I know it seems complicated but the wage-based system actually helps part-time workers qualify more easily than hour-based requirements would.

I guess that makes sense... still wish there was an easier way to figure it out beforehand

I didn't know you could check wage history online. Is that through the same site where you file claims?

Yes, through secure.esd.wa.gov. Your employer reports wages quarterly so you should see all your covered employment there.

Just be aware sometimes there are delays in wage reporting so very recent employment might not show up yet.

What do you mean by able and available? I can definitely work full time.

You have to be actively seeking work, register with WorkSource, and be ready to accept suitable employment. There are ongoing requirements even after you qualify initially.

What's the alternate base period? Never heard of that.

It uses the last 4 completed quarters instead of the first 4 of the last 5. So more recent wages are included if that helps you qualify.

Yeah I looked at that too and couldn't figure it out. Seems like talking to someone would be easier.

Good luck getting through to anyone at Washington ESD though. I called for weeks trying to get answers about my eligibility.

A few people have mentioned this service. Does it actually work?

Worked for me. Way better than hitting redial for hours trying to get through their phone system.

While that's one approach, it's better to understand the requirements first. An improper application can sometimes cause delays or complications.

fair point, probably better to be prepared

That's encouraging to hear. I did work part-time at another place before my current job so maybe that will help.

Definitely include all your work history when you apply. Every bit of covered wages helps toward meeting the minimum requirement.

Both my jobs were regular W-2 employment so I think I should be good on that front.

Yeah W-2 jobs should have unemployment taxes taken out. You can see it on your paystubs as SUTA or state unemployment tax.

The base period system ensures there's enough wage data reported and processed before benefits are calculated. It takes time for employers to report wages to the state.

I guess but it still seems unnecessarily complicated for people trying to figure out if they qualify

Good advice. I'll start pulling that stuff together just in case.

Also take screenshots of your online wage history through Secure Access Washington. Sometimes the system goes down when you need it most.

True, I'd rather apply and get denied than not apply at all if I actually qualify.

Just make sure you provide accurate information on your application. Intentionally providing false information can disqualify you from future benefits.

Yeah their website organization is terrible. I usually end up having to call or use something like Claimyr to talk to an actual person who can give me a clear answer.

Seems like talking to someone is definitely the way to go for complicated questions like this.

Thanks for the clear summary. That helps me understand what to look for when I check my wage history.

No problem. The key is having wages spread across multiple quarters, not just concentrated in one or two quarters.