How long do you have to apply for unemployment in Washington - missed deadline?

Thank you! So I won't get any back pay for the weeks I missed? That's a bummer but at least I can still apply.

Correct - Washington ESD can't pay benefits for weeks you didn't file. The sooner you apply, the better. Make sure you have all your employer information and separation details ready.

How much did you lose by waiting? I'm kicking myself for not knowing about this sooner.

I lost about $2,800 in benefits that I could have gotten if I had filed right after getting fired. Expensive lesson learned.

This is so confusing. Why don't they make this clearer when you get laid off? Seems like something employers should have to tell you.

Some employers do provide this information, but it's not required. Washington ESD has information available but people have to seek it out. It's definitely a gap in the system.

How does that work? Is it legit? I've been trying to call but keep getting busy signals.

Yeah it's real. They basically handle the calling for you and connect you when they get an agent on the line. Way better than sitting on hold for hours or getting disconnected.

You're right, I need to stop procrastinating. Going to file right now.

Good attitude! It's not charity, it's insurance you already paid for through your work.

Is there any exception to this rule? Like if you were in the hospital or something?

There are very limited exceptions for things like military deployment or serious illness, but they're rare and require documentation. For most situations, the rule is firm.

I understand the frustration, but the system is designed to encourage people to actively seek work. If you could file for past weeks indefinitely, there would be less incentive to find employment quickly.

I guess that makes sense from a policy perspective, but it still seems harsh for people who don't know the rules.

Great! Make sure you file your first weekly claim this Sunday. You'll need to do that every week to continue receiving benefits.

Good job! And don't forget about the job search requirements - you need to document your work search activities.

Where is that calculator? I've been looking around the site but can't find it.

It's under the 'Benefits' section I think. Search for 'benefit calculator' on their site.

How much does it cost? I'm already tight on money after being unemployed.

I don't want to get into specifics about pricing here, but it was worth it for me to get my claim issues resolved quickly. Check their website for details.

Exactly. The annual filing deadline is just for your initial claim. The weekly claims are what actually get you paid, and those have to be filed in real time.

This is why I tell everyone who gets laid off to file immediately, even if they think they'll find work quickly. You can always stop filing weekly claims if you get a job.

Gig workers may qualify for unemployment in Washington, but the rules are different. You'll need to file and let Washington ESD determine your eligibility based on your earnings history.

Thanks, I'll file and see what happens. Better to try than not, right?

If you quit for good cause (like harassment, unsafe conditions, or significant changes to your job), you might still qualify. Washington ESD will investigate and make a determination.

ok good to know. I documented everything so hopefully that helps my case.

Totally agree. I only found out by accident when I mentioned being laid off to a coworker. Should be more widely known.

Maybe they should send letters or emails to people when they're laid off? Seems like technology could solve this problem.

Good advice! I had to dig up old pay stubs and employment records. Took longer than expected.

Yeah, being organized helps. Also make sure you have your Social Security card and ID ready for verification.

Was it hard to use? I'm not great with technology but I really need to talk to someone about my claim.

Super easy. You just give them your info and they call you back when they get an agent. Much simpler than trying to navigate the phone system yourself.

That's encouraging! I'm just glad I didn't wait even longer. Thanks for sharing your experience.

Same here. I waited 5 weeks and regretted it, but the benefits I did get made a huge difference in my job search.

Exactly what I needed to hear. I'm telling everyone I know about this rule now.

This should be stickied at the top of this forum. So many people could benefit from this information.

Glad this helped! I wish I had asked sooner but better late than never.

Smart move. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits if you qualify.

This is good advice. I thought I wouldn't qualify because I was part-time, but I did. You never know until you try.

Thanks everyone for all the help and encouragement. This forum is awesome!