How long do you have to be at a job to receive unemployment benefits in Washington?

Thanks! What's the minimum amount you need to earn in those quarters? Is there a dollar threshold too?

Yes, you need to have earned at least $1,000 in your highest earning quarter and total wages of at least 1.25 times your highest quarter earnings during your entire base period.

It's not about hours worked, it's about wages earned during specific quarters. The 680 hours you're thinking of might be from a different state's requirements.

oh okay that makes sense. i always get confused about the different requirements

How much does that cost? I'm already worried about money if I lose my job.

I didn't look into pricing details, but it was worth it for me to actually get through to someone instead of calling hundreds of times. The peace of mind was valuable.

This is really helpful! So it's not just about how long you've been at your current job, but your total work history during that period?

Exactly right. If you worked at multiple jobs during your base period, all those wages count toward your eligibility.

I understand the frustration, but the quarter-based system actually helps protect against seasonal workers who might only work a few months and then claim benefits repeatedly.

i guess that makes sense but its still annoying when you just want to know if you qualify

Yeah, I'm getting laid off due to company downsizing, so that shouldn't be an issue. Thanks for mentioning that though.

Perfect, layoffs due to lack of work are typically straightforward for eligibility. Make sure to file as soon as possible after your last day.

How long did it take you to get through? I've heard the wait times are terrible.

It took me like 3 hours on hold, and then they could only talk for 10 minutes. So frustrating when you're already stressed about losing your job.

Yes! All wages from any employer during your base period count. So your 2 years at the previous job would definitely help with eligibility.

Oh that's a relief! I was worried I'd have to start over with the time requirements at my new job.

That's a good point. The $1,000 minimum in your highest quarter can be challenging for part-time workers, especially at minimum wage.

Exactly. I had to pick up extra shifts just to make sure I'd qualify if I ever needed unemployment.

Traditional UI benefits are only for W-2 employees. However, Washington does have Self-Employment Assistance programs in certain situations. You'd need to check with ESD directly about your specific situation.

Thanks, I'll look into that. The gig economy makes everything more complicated.

Good advice! I'll make sure to file right away if the layoff happens.

Smart thinking. Even if you find work quickly, having the claim filed protects you if that new job doesn't work out.

Yeah, someone mentioned that earlier. Did she say if it was worth it?

she said it saved her tons of time and stress. apparently they handle all the calling and waiting for you

That's reassuring. I make about $3,500 per month, so I should be well above the minimum thresholds.

With those wages, you'll definitely qualify if you get laid off. Just make sure to file promptly.

This is so true. My claim got held up for weeks because they had to verify my layoff with HR. Make sure you keep all your termination paperwork.

Great point about keeping documentation. Layoff letters, final pay stubs, etc. can all help speed up the process.

It's definitely frustrating, but understanding the requirements ahead of time helps. At least Washington's system is better than some other states.

true, could be worse. just wish they made the process more user-friendly

Good to know there are options if I run into problems. Hopefully the layoff doesn't happen, but it's good to be prepared.

Exactly - better to know your options before you need them. The peace of mind is worth it.

Perfect summary! Thanks everyone for all the helpful information. I feel much more prepared now.

Glad we could help! Hope the layoff doesn't happen, but you're definitely prepared if it does.

Thanks for the heads up! I hadn't thought about the ongoing requirements yet.

yeah they're pretty strict about it. make sure to keep good records of your job search activities

I'll make sure to gather all my employment documents just in case. Better to be over-prepared.

Smart approach. Having everything ready makes the process much less stressful.

Good point! I wouldn't have thought about the tax implications. Thanks for mentioning that.

No problem! It's one of those things people forget about until tax season rolls around.