How long do you get unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Thanks! So it's not automatically 26 weeks for everyone? How do they calculate the exact number of weeks?

Right, it's based on your quarterly earnings during your base year. If you worked consistently with higher wages, you're more likely to get the full 26 weeks. Washington ESD looks at your highest quarter earnings to determine this.

Thanks! So if I file today, I potentially have 26 weeks even if it takes them a few weeks to process my claim?

Exactly. But you'll only get paid for weeks you're eligible and file your weekly claims. If there's a delay in processing, you can still get paid retroactively for those weeks if you filed weekly claims during the waiting period.

Thanks! So the base period is the first 4 quarters of the last 5? I'm a bit confused about how they calculate that.

Yes exactly. So if you file in January 2025, they'd look at wages from July 2023 through June 2024. Washington ESD uses this to determine both your weekly benefit amount and duration.

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks maximum? I worked full time for 6 years so I should qualify for the full amount right?

Yes, with 6 years of full-time work you should definitely qualify for the full 26 weeks. Just make sure to file your weekly claims on time and keep up with the job search requirements.

The COVID extensions (like PEUC and PUA) ended in 2021. We're back to the regular 26-week limit for standard unemployment insurance in Washington.

Thanks! Is that 26 weeks from when I first file or from when my claim gets approved? My claim is still in adjudication.

It's 26 weeks from when your claim is approved and you start receiving benefits. The adjudication time doesn't count against your 26 weeks.

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks max? I was worried it might be less since I've only been working for 3 years.

Yes, 26 weeks is the maximum for regular UI benefits. Your 3 years of work history should be plenty to qualify for the full duration.

Thanks! So it's definitely 26 weeks max for regular UI? I thought I heard someone mention it could be longer in some cases.

Yes, 26 weeks is the standard maximum. The only time it gets extended is when the state unemployment rate triggers federal extended benefits, but that's pretty rare and we're not in one of those periods right now.

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr that calls Washington ESD for you. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Wait so there's really no extensions at all anymore? That's rough, 26 weeks goes by fast when you're looking for decent work.

Nope, all the COVID extensions are long gone. Just the regular 26 weeks maximum. Though honestly with the job market right now, hopefully you won't need all 26 weeks.

What's a base period? This is all so confusing.

The base period is how Washington ESD calculates your benefit amount and duration. They look at your wages from specific quarters to determine eligibility.

Thanks! So it's not based on how long I worked at my job? Just on my wages during the base period?

Correct! It's based on your earnings, not length of employment. As long as you meet the minimum wage requirements during your base period, you could potentially get the full 26 weeks.

That's correct - during periods of high unemployment, there can be federal extensions like Extended Benefits (EB) or emergency programs. But those aren't automatic and depend on state unemployment rates meeting federal triggers.

Are there any extensions available right now in Washington?

As of now, no federal extensions are active. You'd get the standard Washington ESD benefits up to 26 weeks maximum.

Thanks! So I just keep filing weekly claims and that's it? Do I need to do anything special to keep getting benefits?

You need to meet the ongoing eligibility requirements - actively searching for work, available for work, and reporting any earnings. Keep track of your job search activities because Washington ESD requires 3 job contacts per week.

I worked full-time consistently for 3 years, so hopefully I'll get the full 26 weeks. Do you know how they calculate the base period?

Base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you filed. So if you file now in 2025, they'd look at Q1 2024 through Q4 2024.

Good point. What exactly are the job search requirements? I heard it's 3 job contacts per week?

yeah 3 job search activities per week minimum. can be applications, interviews, networking events, etc. you gotta log them in worksourcewa.com too

Wait, so if I only use 15 weeks and find a job, I still have 11 weeks left if I lose that job within the year?

Exactly! As long as it's within your benefit year and you still meet the eligibility requirements.

This is really helpful to know. I didn't realize you could save unused weeks like that.

Interesting, I'll check that out. Did you end up getting the full 26 weeks?

Yes, I got the full 26 weeks. The agent I spoke to through Claimyr was really helpful in explaining how my benefit year worked.

I understand your frustration, but adjudication delays don't change the 26-week benefit duration. Once your claim is approved, you'll still get the full time period you're entitled to.

Hang in there. The adjudication process is frustrating but once it's resolved you'll get backpay for all the weeks you were eligible.

Different states have different rules. Washington is one of the more generous states with 26 weeks maximum. Some states do have shorter durations.

oh ok that makes sense. glad washington is better about it

That's reassuring to hear! Did you have any issues with Washington ESD during your claim?

Actually yes, I had trouble reaching them by phone when I had questions about my weekly claims. If you run into that problem, I used a service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual Washington ESD agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

No, that's not how Washington ESD works. Your earnings determine your weekly benefit AMOUNT (up to $999/week max), but everyone gets the same 26 week duration if they qualify. You need to have earned at least $7,000 in your base year to qualify at all.

I definitely earned more than that, so I should be good. Do I have to apply for jobs while receiving benefits?

Yes, you're required to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of your activities. Washington ESD can audit your job search records.

The job search requirement is no joke. I got audited and had to provide detailed records of every application I submitted.

Your cousin might have qualified for fewer weeks based on her work history. The maximum is 26 weeks, but not everyone gets the full amount.

oh that makes sense, she only worked part time for like 6 months before getting laid off

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents automatically. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked - got connected within an hour instead of spending days redialing. Check out claimyr.com, they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

That sounds too good to be true, but at this point I'm desperate. I'll check it out.

I used Claimyr too when I needed to talk to someone about my adjudication. Worth it just to avoid the endless busy signals.

That sounds too good to be true. How much does something like that cost?

They don't publish pricing on the site but honestly after wasting weeks trying to call myself, it was worth whatever it cost just to get answers about my claim.

I'm skeptical of any service that charges to help with government benefits, but I have to admit the Washington ESD phone system is broken.

How do they calculate the weekly amount?

It's based on your highest earning quarter during the base period. They take your highest quarter earnings, divide by 26, and that's your weekly benefit amount up to the maximum.

What happens if you miss filing a weekly claim?

You can lose that week's benefits permanently. Washington ESD is really strict about the deadlines.

This is another situation where Claimyr could help if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about missed claims or other issues. Much easier than trying to get through their regular phone lines.

Exactly right. File as soon as possible because there's a waiting week, and yes you need to file weekly claims and meet the work search requirements (3 job contacts per week) to keep getting benefits.

What's standby status?

Standby is when your employer temporarily lays you off but expects to recall you within a specific timeframe. You don't have to do job searches but you have to be available to return to work.

Did you have any trouble getting through to Washington ESD when you filed? I'm worried about the application process.

Yeah, calling them was a nightmare. Kept getting busy signals and getting disconnected. The online application worked fine though.

Interesting, I've been trying to call Washington ESD but keep getting busy signals. How does this service work exactly?

It basically handles the calling and waiting for you, then connects you when an actual Washington ESD agent is available. Saved me hours of trying to get through myself.

Sounds too good to be true... do you have to pay for this?

Interesting, I'll check that out. At this point I'm desperate to talk to someone about my situation.

How do I find out what my total benefit amount is? Is that different from the weekly amount?

Yes, you have a weekly benefit amount and a maximum benefit amount for the year. You can see both in your online account once your claim is processed.

It's based on a formula using your wages during the base period. If you didn't work much or had low wages, you might qualify for fewer than 26 weeks. The Washington ESD website has a benefit calculator to estimate your weekly amount and duration.

Regular unemployment benefits don't automatically extend beyond 26 weeks anymore. The pandemic-era extensions ended in 2021. However, there's Extended Benefits (EB) that can kick in during high unemployment periods, but that's rare and depends on state unemployment rates.

So basically I have 26 weeks to find something or I'm on my own? That's terrifying.

I know it's scary but 26 weeks is actually a decent amount of time to find work if you're actively searching. Use WorkSource Washington for job search resources and training programs that might help. Some programs can even extend your benefits while you're in training.

What happens if you forget to file one week? Do you lose everything?

You don't lose everything but you won't get paid for that week. You can usually file late but there might be additional questions.

Never heard of that before. How does it work exactly? I've been trying to call Washington ESD about my claim and can never get through.

They basically handle the calling and waiting for you. You give them your info and they call Washington ESD, wait on hold, then connect you when they get an agent. Saved me hours of trying to get through myself.

Seriously? That seems unfair if they're the ones taking forever to process claims.

Yeah it's frustrating but that's how it works. The benefit year is 52 weeks from when you file, and you can collect up to 26 weeks within that year.

Good point about the weekly claims. Is there a deadline each week for filing?

You can file your weekly claim starting Sunday for the previous week, and you should file by the following Saturday. Don't wait too long or you might miss the window.

Actually I think you have up to 4 weeks to file a late claim, but it's better to file on time to avoid any delays.

So if I file today, I have one year to use up my 26 weeks of benefits?

Exactly. And if you find work and then get laid off again within that same benefit year, you might be able to reopen your claim instead of filing a new one.

Good to hear from someone who actually went through it recently. How long did it take for your claim to get approved?

took about 2 weeks but that was pretty quick compared to some people

That's concerning... I was counting on having 26 weeks to find something. How did you find out you only qualified for 18 weeks?

It was in my determination letter after I filed my initial claim. Washington ESD sends you all the details about your benefit amount and duration.

How much does something like that cost though? Seems like we shouldn't have to pay extra just to reach the agency that owes us money.

Interesting, I might need something like that if I run into issues with my claim. Good to know there are options.

Your benefit year is 52 weeks from when you first filed your claim. Within that year, you can receive up to 26 weeks of payments if you remain eligible.

ok so if i filed in january 2024, my benefit year ends january 2025 even if i only used 20 weeks of benefits?

Exactly. Any unused weeks don't carry over to a new benefit year.

Construction workers often qualify for standby status during winter months which can help extend benefits in some cases. Your cousin should look into that if they expect to return to the same employer in spring.

oh really? I'll tell him to ask about that. do you know how standby works exactly?

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - saves you from having to redial constantly. They handle the calling for you and connect you when an agent is available.

might have to try that, this is driving me crazy

What kind of special circumstances? Just curious in case that applies to me.

Things like Extended Benefits (EB) that sometimes activate when state unemployment rates are high, but Washington hasn't triggered those in a while. There's also training extensions if you're in approved programs, but those have specific requirements.

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work or is it just another scam?

It's legit! I was skeptical too but it actually got me connected to a Washington ESD agent within 30 minutes. Way better than spending all day redialing.

Interesting, I might need to try that. I've been trying to reach them for weeks about my adjudication.

No, regular unemployment insurance in Washington maxes out at 26 weeks. You might be thinking of disability benefits or other programs that can last longer.

oh wow that's not very long at all especially if you're in a specialized field

So if I don't find work in 26 weeks, I'm basically out of luck?

Not necessarily. After your benefit year expires, you might be able to file a new claim if you've worked enough and earned enough wages since your last claim. But there would be a gap between when your current benefits end and when new ones could start.

This is why I tell everyone to start looking for work immediately. Don't wait around hoping for extensions that probably won't come.

So if I work part-time while collecting, that reduces my total weeks available?

Exactly. Each week you receive any unemployment payment (even partial) counts as one of your 26 weeks. Washington ESD doesn't pause the count for partial benefits.

That seems unfair! If you're only getting partial benefits because you found some work, they should extend your timeline.

Wait, I'm confused. So if I use up my 26 weeks in the first 6 months, I can't get any more benefits for the rest of the year?

Exactly. If you exhaust your 26 weeks of benefits, you can't get more regular UI until you start a new benefit year. That requires working again and earning enough wages to qualify for a new claim.

Yeah, no more PUA or PEUC. Just regular state unemployment now.

Those pandemic programs were confusing anyway. At least now it's straightforward - 26 weeks max.

Good advice. I'm hoping to find something before my benefits run out.

Also make sure you understand the earnings deduction rules if you do find part-time work while on unemployment. Washington ESD has specific formulas for how much you can earn before it affects your benefits.

That's scary. Did you have to do anything special to make sure you got all 26 weeks?

Just had to keep filing weekly claims and do the job search requirements. 3 job contacts per week minimum. Keep good records because they audit that stuff.

That's good to know! So the benefit year is 12 months from when I first file?

Correct - 52 weeks from the date you first establish your claim. You have that full year to use up your 26 weeks of benefits.

My layoff is permanent, not standby. The company is closing our facility completely.

Then you'll be on regular UI benefits with the full job search requirements. Make sure to keep track of your job contacts in case ESD audits your claim.

Good to know! I hope I won't need all 26 weeks but it's reassuring to know they're there if I need them.

dont count on finding work quick... took me 8 months to find something decent after getting laid off

Good point about filing weekly claims. How strict are they about the job search requirements during those 26 weeks?

Pretty strict now. You need to make 3 job contacts per week and keep detailed records in WorkSourceWA. They do audit people randomly so don't skip it.

I hear you but honestly 26 weeks is pretty standard. At least Washington's benefit amounts are decent compared to some states.

True, I guess it could be worse. Just frustrating when you're trying to find something that's not a huge step backwards career-wise.

I understand the frustration, but the complexity comes from trying to balance helping people while ensuring the system isn't abused. The work search requirements and time limits encourage people to find new employment rather than rely on benefits long-term.

i guess that makes sense but when youre stressed about money the last thing you want is to figure out complicated rules

How many jobs do you have to apply to per week?

It depends on your situation, but generally you need to make a reasonable search effort. Check the WorkSource website for requirements.

I think it's 3 job search activities per week for most people, but don't quote me on that.

That's reassuring to hear. Did you have any issues with adjudication either time?

First time went smoothly, second time they had to verify my separation reason and it took about 3 weeks. But once approved, I got back pay for those weeks.

Yeah I heard about that. Do I need to log those somewhere or just keep records?

keep your own records but they can ask for them anytime. some people use the worksource website to track everything

Good to know there's no separate cap on total benefits. I was worried there might be some overall limit.

Nope, just the weekly amount times the number of weeks. The weekly amount is based on your highest earning quarter during the base period.

The website can be confusing at first but once you get used to filing your weekly claims it becomes routine

hopefully, still trying to figure out this job search log thing

Washington eliminated the waiting week in 2023, so you can get paid for your first week if you're eligible. It's 26 weeks of actual benefit payments.

What happens if I accidentally miss filing a weekly claim? Can I make it up?

You can file for the missed week, but there might be a delay in processing. It's best to set a reminder to file every Sunday.

I missed one week and it took forever to get it sorted out. Washington ESD had to do some kind of review.

You can't just reapply for regular UI benefits after exhausting them in the same benefit year. You'd need to have worked and earned enough wages to establish a new claim, which usually means working for several months.

How much do you need to earn to qualify for a new claim?

Washington ESD requires earnings in at least two quarters of your base year, with total earnings of at least $3,850 in 2025. Your highest quarter must have at least $1,540 in earnings.

I feel you. The job market is really tough right now. Are you working with WorkSourceWA for job search assistance? They have resources specifically for older workers.

Yeah I'm registered with them. It's helpful but doesn't change the fact that 26 weeks goes by fast when you're competing with hundreds of applicants for every job.

This is making me really nervous about my own situation. I work in tech and know it can take months to find the right position.

How long did the appeal process take?

About 6 weeks total. I had to request a hearing and everything. It was stressful but worth it because I got the full 26 weeks instead of the 12 they initially offered.

Appeals can be tricky - another good reason to have a way to reach Washington ESD directly when you need clarification on decisions. Claimyr was helpful for me when I had questions about my determination letter.

I've only worked in Washington so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Then you're good. Washington ESD will use your Washington wages to calculate your benefits.

I remember during the 2008 recession there were extended benefits that kicked in automatically. Nothing like that exists now though.

Exactly. The Extended Benefits program exists in theory but the unemployment rate would need to be much higher to trigger it.

Tell me about it. I've been unemployed before in other states and every state does it differently.

At least Washington's website has gotten better over the years. Used to be much worse.

How do I find out my exact number of weeks before I run out?

It should be on your monetary determination letter that Washington ESD sends after you file. If you can't find it, you'd need to call them or check your SecureAccess Washington account online.

Perfect summary, thank you everyone. This really helps me plan financially.

Don't forget you can also work part-time and still collect some benefits as long as you report the earnings.

Yeah I remember hearing about people getting like 79 weeks during COVID but that's not available anymore right?

Correct, those pandemic programs (PUA, PEUC, etc.) all ended. We're back to regular state unemployment which is 26 weeks max.

After your regular UI benefits exhaust, you might qualify for other programs depending on your situation - like job training programs through WorkSource, but there's no automatic extension of regular unemployment benefits.

Hang in there! I found my current job in week 25. Sometimes it takes the full time but don't give up. Make sure you're using all the WorkSource resources too.

Wait, so I lose a week right off the bat? That seems harsh.

Yeah, it's been that way for years. The waiting week is supposed to encourage people to find work quickly and reduce costs to the state.

Good advice. I'm already feeling the pressure and I just filed last week. Did you have trouble finding work before your benefits ran out?

First time I found something at week 18, second time at week 22, last time I actually found work at week 28 but had to manage on my own for those final weeks. It's doable but stressful.

I've worked full time for 4 years straight, so I should be good on that front right?

Sounds like you should be fine. They look at your highest earning quarter in your base period to determine your weekly amount and total potential benefits.

Good advice, thanks. I'll make sure to stay on top of the weekly filings.

Wait so if I use up 26 weeks in 6 months, I can't file again for another 6 months even if I'm still unemployed?

Correct. You'd have to wait until your benefit year expires to file a new claim, and you'd need new qualifying wages in your base period.

What's standby status? Is that different from regular unemployment?

It's when your employer expects to call you back within a certain timeframe. You might not have to do job searches but you still file weekly claims.

How long did your appeal take? Mine's been pending for weeks.

About 6 weeks total, but I got backpay for the whole time once it was approved.

I was laid off last Friday, so I should file this week then?

Yes, file as soon as possible. You can file online at esd.wa.gov or by phone, but the website is usually faster.

Good advice. I'm already updating my resume and LinkedIn profile. Better to find something sooner than later.

Also make sure you're keeping track of your job search activities. Washington ESD requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and they can audit your log.

What kind of records do I need to keep for job searches?

You need to log each job search activity including the employer name, date, type of contact, and position applied for. Washington ESD can audit your job search log at any time.

Wait, so I don't get paid for the first week I file?

Correct. The first week is a waiting period. You still have to file the weekly claim but you won't receive payment for that week.

How much did that cost you? Seems like something that should be free.

It was worth it for the time I saved. Spent weeks trying to call on my own with no luck.

I keep seeing mentions of Claimyr. Is it legit or just another scam?

Totally legit. They just help you get through the phone system to reach actual Washington ESD agents. I was skeptical too but after trying for weeks on my own, it was a lifesaver.

Yeah I'm planning to start applying places immediately. Can't afford to wait around.

Smart approach. The job market is competitive right now so the earlier you start the better.

Good point. Are there income requirements for WorkSource programs?

Some programs have income limits but many are available to anyone receiving unemployment. The earlier you connect with them, the better your options.

Even small amounts like gig work or odd jobs?

Yes, report everything. Better to be safe than sorry with Washington ESD.

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits as long as you report all earnings. It might extend how long your benefits last since you're not using the full weekly amount.

What counts as suitable work? Does it have to be the same type of job I had before?

Generally it needs to be work you're qualified for and pays at least a certain percentage of your previous wages. The definition gets broader the longer you're unemployed.

Yikes, that's scary. I'll make sure to keep good records of my job search.

Yeah, keep documentation of every job you apply to, including the date, company name, and position. They can ask for it at any time.

No, you file in one state only - typically where you worked most recently or where you live. If you worked in multiple states, Washington ESD can request wage information from other states to include in your benefit calculation.

That makes sense. I was hoping I could double up somehow lol

Yeah we're lucky in Washington. I have family in other states where unemployment runs out much faster.

How do I know how many weeks I qualify for? My Washington ESD account just shows my weekly benefit amount.

Check your monetary determination letter that Washington ESD should have sent you. It shows your weekly benefit amount, maximum benefit amount, and potential duration. You can also log into your account and look under 'Claim Status' for this info.

Haven't heard anything about extensions coming back. Might want to start looking at jobs outside your usual field, even if temporary.

Yeah that's what I'm afraid of. May have to take something just to keep income coming in.

You can work part-time and still collect partial unemployment benefits in Washington. You need to report all earnings when you file your weekly claim. Generally, if you earn less than 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount, you'll get a reduced payment.

That's helpful to know. So I should take any part-time work I can find rather than turning it down to keep full benefits?

Yes, working part-time while collecting benefits can actually extend how long your benefits last since you're using them more slowly. Plus it keeps you active in the job market.

This is why it's so important to work steadily and not have gaps if possible. Those gaps really hurt your benefit calculation.

YES! I got three different answers about my benefit duration. That's actually when I decided to try Claimyr - at least then I could get through to multiple agents quickly to compare what they said.

Smart thinking. The inconsistency is maddening when you're trying to plan your finances.

Appreciate the straight talk. Sounds like as long as I do what I'm supposed to do, it should work out fine.

Thanks! Feeling much better about it now that I understand the timeline.

Seems like a lot of people have had good luck with that service. I might need to use it if I run into issues.

Yeah, definitely worth it if you're having trouble getting through. The peace of mind is worth it when you're dealing with unemployment stress.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I feel much more confident about filing now.