How long do I have to collect unemployment benefits in Washington?

What exactly is the base year? Is that just the last 12 months I worked?

Your base year is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file in January 2025, your base year would be October 2023 through September 2024.

One week waiting period? So I won't get paid for the first week even if I file right away?

Correct, the first week is unpaid. It's called the waiting week. You still need to file your weekly claim for it though.

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

Interesting, I'll check that out. Anything is better than sitting on hold for 3 hours just to get hung up on.

Job search requirements? What exactly do I need to do for that?

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and log them in your WorkSourceWA account. Keep records of where you applied, when, and any responses.

Wait, I thought it was 2 job contacts per week? When did they change it to 3?

Oh no, really? So if I wait too long I just lose those weeks forever?

yes exactly! the effective date of your claim is when you file, not when you lost your job. those weeks are gone forever

What counts as a job contact? Does applying online count or do I need to actually talk to someone?

Online applications count, but you need to keep detailed records. Date, company name, position, method of contact, and any follow-up. They can audit your job search log.

After regular UI runs out, you might qualify for training programs or other workforce services through WorkSourceWA. There's no federal extended benefits program right now though.

Training programs? How do I find out about those?

The 26-week clock starts from your claim effective date, not when it's approved. But you can only collect benefits for weeks where your claim is actually approved and payable.

If you need to check on your adjudication status, Claimyr can help you get through to talk to an actual person at Washington ESD. Much better than trying to figure it out through the website.

Part-time work doesn't affect the duration, but it will reduce your weekly benefit amount. You need to report all earnings when you file your weekly claim.

Good to know, thanks. At least I won't lose weeks for working a little.

I hear you. I'm 6 months into my job search and only had benefits for the first 26 weeks. It's rough out there.

Have you looked into the senior employment programs? Not sure what Washington has but some states offer additional support for older workers.

Yeah, I'm going to file today. Thanks everyone for the help understanding how this all works.

Smart move. And remember to file your weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still processing.

Good point. Is there anything else I should set up right away when I file?

Make sure your contact info is correct and opt in for text/email notifications. Washington ESD will send important updates that way.

It's a separate system but you're required to register there. It's where you'll do your job search activities and they can share information with Washington ESD about your compliance.

The WorkSourceWA website is worksourcewa.com if you need to register. Pretty straightforward process.

How long do you have to appeal if something goes wrong?

Usually 30 days from the date of the decision. The appeal instructions should be in any determination letter you receive.

And if you need help understanding a decision or talking through an appeal, that's another situation where Claimyr can help you get through to Washington ESD to get real answers.